Conor Gallagher in action for Tottenham, with David Moyes in a circular inset
Conor Gallagher in action for Tottenham, with David Moyes in a circular inset
Everton have moved ahead of their Premier League rivals in the race to sign Conor Gallagher ahead of the January transfer window.
The 26-year-old is facing doubts over his long-term future at Spurs, having started just four games across all competitions, despite frequently being called upon from the bench.
A number of Premier League clubs are said to be keeping a close eye on the midfielder's situation, with Everton now emerging as the front-runners to agree a deal.
Former Tottenham scout and long-standing Moyes ally Mick Brown told Football Insider that David Moyes is a big fan of Gallagher and believes he can add strength and quality to his squad.
The England international ticks a number of boxes for Moyes, with his work rate and willingness seen as key attributes as the Toffees aim to bolster their midfield options.
Everton showed an interest in signing Gallagher during the summer, but after nothing progressed, they could reignite that interest if he is made availble in January.
Could Everton make a move for Conor Gallagher?
Football Insider revealed ahead of the summer transfer window that Everton were exploring a potential loan-to-buy deal for Gallagher, who is high on their list of targets.
While Spurs ultimately decided to keep hold of the midfielder, who has played a regular role in De Zerbi's side, there is a feeling he could be made available in January.
Should Everton be made aware of his availability, they will be prepared to reignite their interest, and Gallagher would be seen as a valuable addition to Moyes' squad.
"Everton would certainly be a leading contender for Gallagher if he was to become available," Brown told Football Insider.
"Those attributes he has got, the work rate, the willingness to run, the ability to break up play and the energy to keep things moving, they're all things David Moyes likes.
"So Gallagher would tick a lot of boxes for Everton and I'm sure David Moyes is a big fan and would love the opportunity to bring him in.
"A lot will depend on Tottenham, but from an Everton point of view, he's a player who would immediate upgrade their midfield and he's better than some of the options they've got.
"It could be a move that makes a lot of sense, especially if the money involved is reasonable, and it's something I can see them going for."
How do Tottenham feel about selling Gallagher?
Much of whether Everton make a move to sign Gallagher in January will depend on Tottenham's stance and whether they are open to letting the midfielder move on.
Doubts about the midfielder's quality in possession and his role in the side have emerged in recent weeks, while interest from rivals clubs may provide an opportunity to cash in.
Brown told Football Insider on 12 December that Spurs have not ruled out selling Gallagher for the right price should a significant offer arrive in January.
The midfielder's lack of starts so far this season have attracted interest from a number of clubs, who could be prepared to meet his demands and lure him away from Spurs.
De Zerbi could be prepared to see him move on, although any fee would have to be substancial enough to allow Tottenham to secure a top-class replacement.