Conor Gallagher is “excited” to work with Enzo Maresca at Chelsea despite so much speculation about the midfielder’s future.
The Blues confirmed the appointment of the former Leicester manager on Monday, with the Italian signing a five-year contract to replace Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge.
Pochettino’s departure may have complicated Gallagher’s situation as Standard Sport understands the Argentine was prepared to fight for the England international to stay at Chelsea.
However, Blues chiefs are believed to be willing to listen to offers for both Gallagher and fellow home-grown star Trevoh Chalobah.
Gallagher is keen to stay at his boyhood club but is about to enter the final year of his contract and has interest from Tottenham.
Speaking about Maresca’s arrival after playing for England in Monday’s friendly win against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Gallagher told Sky Sports: “Really exciting.
“I’ve heard really good things and I’ve seen really good things.
“Myself and everyone at Chelsea are really happy and excited to work with him.”
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Chelsea have spent more than £1bn on signings since the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital takeover in May 2022 but are determined to continue investing, having also raised £400m through player sales during that period.
The Blues must comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and June 30 will bring a deadline upon which clubs will have their business analysed.
Chelsea have always been confident about adhering to the rules and are prepared to back their new manager with four major signings targeted.
Maresca will not have control over transfers but will provide input, with a new goalkeeper, centre-back, left-back and forward on the agenda this summer.
Tosin Adarabioyo is set for a medical ahead of a free transfer from Fulham after the Blues hijacked Newcastle’s attempts to sign the defender.
They also retain a strong interest in RB Leipzig forward Benajmin Sesko, who Arsenal have considered signing this summer.