Reliable reporter Alan Nixon fancies Crystal Palace to pip Leeds United in the race to sign Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher.
The Lowdown: Gallagher links
Both clubs have been linked with a loan move for the 21-year-old, with the Blues unwilling to sanction a permanent exit this summer.
They are open to sending Gallagher out on loan, though, after sending him out to Swansea City and West Brom in recent years.
Gallagher, who is still waiting for his Chelsea debut, made 21 appearances in Wales and 32 for the Baggies.
The Englishman spoke with Leeds a few weeks ago and has also been in contact with Patrick Vieira and Dougie Freedman on FaceTime over a possible move to Selhurst Park.
The Latest: Nixon’s claim
Nixon, who writes for The Sun, was asked who are the favourites to sign the central midfielder out of the Eagles and the Whites on Twitter.
This is what he had to say, admitting he ‘would fancy Palace’s chances’ – an interesting four-word admission.
“Palace have been in for him for some time … to be fair Leeds have too … but would fancy Palace chances.”
The Verdict: A shrewd addition
Should Palace pip Leeds to Gallagher, as Nixon believes could happen, it may turn out to be an excellent move.
He’s already got 30 games of Premier League experience under his belt and can play as a defensive, central or attacking midfielder.
Vieira has two defensive, central and attacking midfielders on the books at this moment in time, so bringing in Gallagher would provide a third option in each of those departments, adding depth in multiple areas with one shrewd swoop.
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