Eddie Howe’s talent ID surely ranks as one of the best in the Premier League right now, even if there hasn’t been nearly enough arrivals on Tyneside over the past few windows.
Since his arrival at Newcastle United back in 2021, our track record of signings has been nothing short of phenomenal, particularly those who Howe has personally pushed for and been a big fan of prior to joining the club.
Now, could another of Howe’s personal favourites be on the move this summer in Conor Gallagher?
We got a glimpse of him in Saturday’s Sela Cup defeat to Atletico Madrid, he’d certainly tick a number of boxes and reports in Spain suggest our hopes of landing the midfielder have just gone up…
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Conor Gallagher could depart Atletico Madrid this summer as he continues to receive interest from Newcastle United.
Despite some strong showings since signing under Diego Simeone, the 25-year-old has been linked with an exit to facilitate further signings.
And Marca claims that we are keeping a very close eye on the former Chelsea and Crystal Palace star’s situation, having been regularly linked with the England international in previous windows and once again last month.
They claim that Saturday’s game may have been ‘more than just a friendly’ for Gallagher, suggesting Howe and Toon chiefs were watching him closely ahead of a potential move.
It’s a bold decision from Atletico Madrid and their football managing director Carlos Bucero, as Gallagher seemed ready to take on a bigger role at the club in the wake of Rodrigo De Paul’s departure.
During his Premier League tenure, as well as his time playing in Gareth Southgate’s England side, Gallagher was quite a divisive player amongst fans and neutrals.
But he’s been putting in some solid performances from Atletico since making the surprise switch from Chelsea, and has firmly put himself in contention for a place in Thomas Tuchel’s midfield ahead of next summer’s World Cup.
Our current midfield needs new legs and competition in it, particularly as we’re down to just four fit midfielders right now, and Gallagher could be the perfect solution now Sean Longstaff has been sold.
With great work rate, goals and assists in his locker, along with versatility, it’s no wonder Howe has been a big fan of his for years, especially now he’s added European experience to his locker during his time in Spain.