Chelsea Eyeing Celtic's Matt O'Riley as Potential Replacement for Conor Gallagher

Chelsea is looking into possible alternatives in the event that Conor Gallagher decides to part ways with the club.

News understands one of several options they are keen on is Matt O'Riley at Celtic.

O'Riley has been the subject of bids from Atalanta this summer, and he has further interest from other clubs in the Premier League and abroad.

Atletico Madrid, who have agreed a £34m deal with Chelsea for Gallagher, made a bid for O'Riley in January.

Talks are continuing between Gallagher and Chelsea this weekend to find a solution to his future.

The England international has been told he will only be a squad player under Enzo Maresca, with the new Blues boss favouring a possession-heavy style of play at Chelsea.

Gallagher is assessing his options.

As things stand he can talk to Atletico, agree to Chelsea's two-year contract offer with the option of a third year, or see out his current one which expires in 2025 while waiting to see if any other clubs come in for him either this summer or January.

Chelsea accepted a larger bid from Aston Villa for Gallagher this summer, but he decided to reject a move to Villa Park and stay at Stamford Bridge. Spurs remain interested in Gallagher.

Chelsea would prefer to sell him to a club abroad rather than a Premier League rival.

When does the summer transfer window open and close?

The 2024 summer transfer window officially closes on August 30 at 11pm UK time in the Premier League and 11.30pm in Scotland.

The Premier League has brought forward Deadline Day to link up with the other major leagues in Europe. The closing dates were set following discussions with the leagues in England, Germany, Italy, Spain and France.