West Ham United hold internal talks over improved Conor Gallagher bid – Dharmesh Sheth
West Ham United are currently in discussions “behind the scenes” on whether to submit an improved bid for Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, according to Sky Sports presenter Dharmesh Sheth.
The England international has also emerged as a top target for West Ham following the big-money departure of Declan Rice and the Hammers had a £40million total bid rejected [Fabrizio Romano, 25 July] for the 23-year-old.
And according to Sheth (26 July), the Hammers are discussing internally on whether to go back in for the England international with an improved bid, despite Mauricio Pochettino’s claims that Gallagher remained part of his plans.
Speaking live on Sky Sports (26 July), he said: “They’ve already had one bid rejected of around £40m for Conor Gallagher and we’re told that they are discussing now behind the scenes at West Ham whether to go back with an improved offer.”
No more than £50m
The West Ham United desperation to replace Declan Rice is now abundantly clear following their latest failed attempts to sign both Gallagher and Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha and their unanswered £25m offer for Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse.
And given the qualities of both midfield targets, they would certainly represent stunning and astute pieces of business by the Hammers with David Moyes seemingly aiming to bring in more than one midfield player.
Gallagher is certainly an attractive proposition and opportunity for the Irons as they currently do not possess a player who holds the capabilities to be impactful and influential in both boxes.
The 23-year-old is the perfect solution to that squad weakness and it is no surprise to see the club discussing amongst themselves whether to return to the Chelsea table for such a prestigious and unique midfield talent.
With more than £100m in the bank for the club to spend, it is imperative West Ham utilise the significant warchest wisely and should they return with another bid for Gallagher, it shouldn’t be more than £50m to get a deal done.
There are other areas in the squad which need desperate addressing too, plus the need to sign two midfielders.
In other West Ham news, the Irons have submitted their first offer for Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse