What next for Conor Gallagher? Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca provides update on midfielder's future amid banishment murmurs & Atletico Madrid transfer pursuit

Gallagher's future has taken a number of twists and turns this summer. The midfielder is said to have rejected two contract offers from the Blues because of a disagreement over the length of the deal, while Atletico Madrid have had a bid accepted for his services. Nevertheless, he has yet to decide on an exit, and recent reports suggest he has been informed he will not be considered part of Chelsea's first-team squad if he stays.

PerThe Athletic, Chelsea are determined to avoid Gallagher leaving on a free transfer when his contract expires next summer and, as a result, are looking to agree a sale. Tottenham have also been linked with an interest but have yet to match Atletico by tabling a bid.

Maresca said: "The only thing I can say is I know he is in contact with the club to find a solution. The club offered him a new contract. But this is, at the moment, the only news I received."

Chelsea play Manchester City in a pre-season friendly this weekend and will hope to find some degree of clarity over Gallagher's future soon. It does appear, however, that the midfielder will definitely be leaving Stamford Bridge before the start of the 2024-25 campaign.