Conor Gallagher has described Chelsea’s latest signing Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall as a “top player” and recalled coming up against him last season in the FA Cup.
Chelsea announced the signing of Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester earlier this week in a deal worth £30m as the Blues further strengthened their midfield options.
The 25-year-old knows new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca well having excelled under the Italian last season, scoring 12 goals and providing 14 assists as the Foxes won the Championship title.
Gallagher praises Dewsbury-Hall
The signing of Dewsbury-Hall came as a bit of a surprise given the sheer volume of options Chelsea have in the middle of the park.
Reports have suggested that Chelsea see Dewsbury-Hall as a profile of midfielder they don’t have given he is left footed, and is a goal threat from the middle of the park.
His arrival could potentially spell the end for Gallagher’s time at Stamford Bridge, with the 24-year-old out of contract at the end of next season and the club looking to sell him.
Gallagher is attracting interest from Tottenham, Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid, although it’s not been completely ruled out the club will offer him a new contract.
The midfielder is currently preparing for Saturday’s Euro 2024 final against Switzerland, but took time out of his preparations to share his thoughts on Chelsea’s latest recruit.
“He’s a top player,” he told talkSPORT.
“He had an incredible season last season, even when he played Chelsea at the Bridge [in the FA Cup], he was very good.
“I remember trying to get the ball off him and thinking he’s a good player.
“We’re really happy and delighted to have him at the club. I’m sure he’s going to be brilliant.”
How Dewsburry-Hall adapts to Chelsea remains to be seen, but it’s certainly a big plus that he knows Maresca’s system well, and he could be set for a key role under the 44-year-old again next season, and could even feature alongside Gallagher if the England international stays at Stamford Bridge.