Chelsea want to replace Conor Gallagher with Celtic star

Chelsea have identified Chelsea midfielder Matt O'Riley as a potential replacement for Conor Gallagher this summer, according to Sky Sports.

The Blues have made the decision to part ways with Gallagher. Atletico Madrid have already made a formal bid for his services and a transfer could be finalised in the next week.

The London giants are preparing for the same and reports claim that they have earmarked O'Riley as a successor. The 23-year-old has been knocking on the door of top European clubs.

Juventus and Napoli are among his admirers, but neither of them have met the reported asking price of around £25 million. The Blues could, however, do so after parting ways with Gallagher.

Atletico are prepared to pay £34m up front for the Blues graduate. Gallagher has held positive talks with the Spanish giants and he is due to end his long-term association with Chelsea.

Aside from Gallagher, the Blues are expected to offload the likes of Armando Broja, Trevoh Chalobah and David Datro Fofana before the transfer window closes on August 30.