Newcastle United scouts watch England international ahead of £50m summer swoop

Newcastle United sent scouts to watch Conor Gallagher in Chelsea’s recent 4-3 win over Manchester United, according to reports.

Rumours have circulated throughout the campaign about the 24-year-old’s future. A bizarre situation unfolded last summer where Gallagher appeared headed for the Stamford Bridge exit - with Tottenham Hotspur interested - before being given the armband weeks later.

Gallagher has captained Chelsea for most of the campaign while Reece James recovered from a hamstring injury. Despite that, he has just one year remaining on his Blues contract and appears no closer to penning an extension.

Mauricio Pochettino revealed earlier this year that the midfielder wants to stay amid reported interest from West Ham United, Spurs and Newcastle. He said: “What he told me was to stay at Chelsea. But then it's about him and the club.

“I'm not suffering with this type of thing, he still has one year more on his contract. I think it is a matter for him and the club. He's a player with great commitment to the team.”

Reports now claim Toon scouts attended Chelsea’s dramatic victory against Man United a fortnight ago. Co-owner Mehrdad Ghodoussi was pictured at the match but Newcastle talent-spotters were also taking note.

Midfield has proven a problem area for Eddie Howe this season due to injuries. Joelinton, Joe Willock and Elliot Anderson have spent most of the campaign sidelined while Sandro Tonali is banned for breaching betting regulations.

But Newcastle should not expect a sizable discount - even though Gallagher has one year left on his deal. Chelsea are understood to be wanting around £50million for the England international.