Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher says he is 'ready' to make the step up to the first team at Stamford Bridge amid rumours linking him with a move to Everton.
The 22-year-old has spent the last three seasons on loan with Swansea City, West Brom and, most recently, Crystal Palace. He is said to have been the subject of interest from the likes of Everton and Aston Villa this summer, but the player himself has now admitted he wants to break into Chelsea's senior set-up.
In an interview with The Guardian, Gallagher revealed he made his intentions known to Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel in a phone call after his impressive spell at Selhurst Park.
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The England international, who is currently part of Tuchel's squad on a pre-season tour in the US, said: "I said to him: ‘I think I’m ready to play for Chelsea’. I’ve got some older brothers that have told me if you’ve got something you want to say or ask then just ask because managers aren’t scary.
“You can say it’s a gamble but I feel like I’m ready for a step up. If there is a chance to be a part of the squad at Chelsea and part of the team then I can’t turn it down. I feel like I’ve got to have belief in myself that I can help improve this team and I can show the fans and the boss what I can do.”
Gallagher had a positive campaign with Palace, making 39 appearances in all competitions. He also scored eight goals and registered three assists in the Premier League. His performances earned him a nomination for the Men’s PFA Young Player of the Year award, while he was also awarded the Eagles' fans' Player of the season prize.
Tuchel will get a closer look at Gallagher this summer but he admitted last season he won't be the only one responsible for making a decision. The Chelsea manager said: “I believe Conor can be a part of our squad and can play a role with us. But I am not the only one to decide. We need to speak after the season with everybody, speak after the season about what Conor wants, we need to see what the situation is and what role we have for him that he can fight for."
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