New: Aston Villa ‘interest’ in Chelsea ace confirmed, club makes fresh Harry Maguire approach

Aston Villa have ‘expressed an interest’ in signing Chelsea ace Conor Gallagher, with the player admired by the Lions, according to a reputable report. There is plenty of appreciation for the midfielder, with a whole host of Premier League sides keeping tabs as the Blues make yet more signings in his position.

Crystal Palace, Newcastle United and West Ham United have all made their intrigue known, whereas Everton made a bid but the Toffees were rejected by the player directly, reports The Athletic. The 22-year-old had the opportunity to become one of Sean Dyche’s first signings at Goodison Park, but he turned it down.

Since coming through the Chelsea academy, Gallagher has had four successful loan spells - at Charlton Athletic, Swansea City, West Brom and Crystal Palace. Set to turn 23 at the start of February, Gallagher has finally made a bit more of a breakthrough with the Blues with 18 Premier League appearances so far this term.

Graham Potter’s side still are not satisfied with their midfield options, however, as they have been heavily linked with a deadline day move for Benfica star Enzo Fernandez. A bid of around €120 million has been made for the World Cup winner, which could put Gallagher’s future at doubt.

With an ‘interest’ now confirmed by a reliable source, Villans could perhaps make a late move for Gallagher on deadline day. As things stand, no contact has been made between the two clubs about a potential move, but there is still plenty of time to go. After all, the Matteo Guendouzi talk has gone very quiet.

Meanwhile, club makes contact over Harry Maguire

Earlier in the January transfer window, it seemed as if Manchester United defender Harry Maguire was on his way to Villa Park in a shock move before the speculation was rubbished. Now, with the player still reportedly of interest to Unai Emery’s side, fresh contact has been made with the Red Devils over his availability.

This has not come from Emery, but rather Inter Milan, who signed current Villa star Ashley Young from United a few years ago. The Daily Mail reports an official enquiry has been made by the Serie A giants as they look for a replacement for Milan Skriniar. The centre half is expected to join Paris Saint-Germain, so the gap needs filling.