Conor Gallagher and Trevoh Chalobah are expected to edge closer to leaving Chelsea following Mauricio Pochettino’s departure as head coach.
Pochettino’s exit was confirmed on Tuesday evening after a season-end review with the club’s leadership. The 52-year-old Argentine had been keen on retaining Gallagher and Chalobah, both academy graduates who played key roles under his management, even though the club was intent on selling them.
Chalobah and Gallagher on the Brink
With Pochettino no longer at the helm, both Chalobah and Gallagher are now more likely to be sold. The club views their homegrown status as a financial advantage, considering them “pure profit” on the books.
Gallagher has been one of Chelsea’s standout performers, even captaining the side for much of the season due to the absences of Reece James and Ben Chilwell. Chalobah, on the other hand, has proven his worth in the second half of the season after missing the first half due to injury. The team didn’t lose a Premier League game in which the 24-year-old started since his return in February.
Despite their contributions, both players’ futures at the club are uncertain. Gallagher, in particular, is in the final year of his contract with no signs of a renewal, while Chalobah is under contract until 2028. Both players wish to stay and fight for their places.
Interest from Other Clubs
According to the Evening Standard, Gallagher is drawing interest from Tottenham and Newcastle, with Chelsea valuing the midfielder at around £50 million. Chalobah, meanwhile, might attract interest from Fulham as a potential replacement for Tosin Adarabioyo, although he would prefer a move to a club playing European football.
Chelsea’s players reportedly fear losing two talented and hardworking teammates. Gallagher and Chalobah’s departure would be particularly disheartening given their progression through the club’s ranks and their ability to contribute significantly to the squad.
It remains to be seen if this is the end of their time at Stamford Bridge, but their potential exit would be a loss for a squad that benefits from players who truly understand what it means to play for Chelsea.