Thomas Tuchel is under growing pressure to decide the future of Conor Gallagher this summer, with Steven Gerrard apparently eager to sign the Chelsea midfielder. The 22-year-old has been heavily linked with an exit from Stamford Bridge this summer following an impressive debut Premier League campaign.
While on a season-long loan at Selhurst Park, he featured 34 times for Crystal Palace and directly contributed towards 11 goals. Gallagher's impressive displays steered the Patrick Vieira's side within touching distance of a top-half finish, earning the respect of Tuchel in the process.
The Chelsea boss has identified Gallagher as N'Golo Kante's replacement, privately believing that the pair share a lot of the same desirable qualities, according to the Evening Standard. However, it is believed that Tuchel will wait until pre-season before reaching a final verdict on the Cobham graduates future, leaving the door open to Aston Villa, who are carefully monitoring the situation.
READ MORE: Todd Boehly Chelsea takeover agreement gives Thomas Tuchel La Liga transfer mission green light
BirminghamLive understand that Villa are 'aware' of Gallagher's current situation at Stamford Bridge, with a fee in the region of £30million being quoted for the player. And, throwing his hat in the ring, Fabrizio Romano has added that Gerrard 'loves' the youngster, validating a dilemma that Tuchel could soon be rushed into.
Speaking on the Qué Golazo Podcast, Romano issued the following update on the Chelsea midfielder amid Villa's looming interest. The transfer expert said: "Great player but I'm told Steven Gerrard loves him, he really loves him and rates him highly but he's not the only one.
"I think that he will stay with Chelsea for the pre-season and they will decide with the player what is the best solution. I am sure that Thomas Tuchel wants to keep an eye on this boy before accepting any proposals. Tuchel wants to see this boy and work with him."
football.london understand that the England international, who has a contract at Stamford Bridge until 2025, fully expects to return to Chelsea and fight for a first-team spot. With Kante and Jorginho's contracts in west London expiring at the end of next season, a first-team opportunity beckons for one of the club's most impressive loanees.
READ NEXT:
Chelsea make Jules Kounde transfer U-turn as Cristiano Ronaldo influence revealed
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest updates and rumours from Stamford Bridge
Full Chelsea Premier League fixture list for 2022/23
What Thomas Tuchel has said about Cristiano Ronaldo as Todd Boehly discusses transfer with agent
Jules Kounde makes 'financial' decision as Chelsea turn transfer attention to Matthijs de Ligt
