Conor Gallagher has 'half a chance' to secure a move to Newcastle United but there is a belief that the Magpies should be setting their sights higher in this summer's transfer window.
Eddie Howe's side traveled to Stamford Bridge on the final game of the season - drawing 1-1, and it may have been a chance for the manager and Dan Ashworth to cast an eye over several players who have been linked with a move to Tyneside.
Gallagher is one of those who United have previously held an interest in but the midfield choose a loan move to Crystal Palace last January, and it is believed Chelsea's asking price last summer stopped any potential bid then.
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But with Chelsea having had a dreadful season, there is likely to be a firesale - if only to reduce their squad size which at its current number is proving difficult to manage.
One of those likely to have suitors is Gallagher - but according to Chronicle Live columnist John Gibson, alongside any potential deal for Ruben Loftus-Cheek, it's not a move that he thinks would excite Toon fans. Speaking on this week's Match Preview episode of The Everything is Black and White Podcast, Gibbo said: "It wouldn't set me walking back on my heels, getting the cigars out and looking for the white wine in the fridge if Newcastle sign either of those players.
"Gallagher - does he catch my eye? In passing. He has half a chance. He had a good season at Palace, but you would have a good season at Palace apart from Zaha, who was around at Palace and was a better player than Gallagher where he was there?
"Loftus-Cheek? No thanks. He should have been at Newcastle a year ago if he wanted to come because Newcastle are at his level now.
"We've passed him by. I'm not suggesting he's not a good player, but I'm suggesting he's not a good enough player for Newcastle - Gallagher though is different."
One other name linked with a move is N'Golo Kante. The 32-year-old is out of contract this summer and has also been linked with a move to Arsenal. With Newcastle United in the market for a defensive midfielder, Gibbo passed his judgment on the Premier League winner.
"You wouldn't have turned your nose once upon a time, he would have been sensational because what a good player he was. But I think it's two seasons too late and no, we'll get better in him."
You can listen to this episode by clicking here. Or by searching The Everything is Black and White Podcast in your podcast provider.
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