Journalist Craig Hope has claimed that a Newcastle United transfer for Conor Gallagher is unlikely with the player preferring to stay where he is for now.

What's the word?

In recent times, the Magpies have been linked with a possible move for the Chelsea midfielder in the remainder of the January transfer window.

The Blues have recently signed the likes of Mykhaylo Mudryk, Joao Felix and Andrey Santos. Consequently, the Englishman could find regular minutes hard to come by and his side may need to make a sale to help balance the books.

Despite the potential for both clubs to be keen on a sale, it sounds as though Gallagher is prepared to stay and fight for his place in the team for the time being.

While speaking about it all on the True Faith podcast, Hope explained: “I've since been told on Conor Gallagher he wants to stay at Stamford Bridge, so I wouldn't expect that one. I'd be less confident if that one happened.”

Patience key?

It's certainly no secret that Newcastle are in the market for a new midfielder this winter. For instance, Manchester United man Scott McTominay has also been linked with a move recently.

And with Bruno Guimaraes set for a spell on the sidelines after picking up an injury in the win over Fulham last weekend, the club may well feel as though they need to act fast.

However, if Gallagher isn't open to a move then it feels as though this one may have to be put on the back burner for the time being. Still, the 22-year-old has just eight league starts to his name this term and if that rate doesn't improve before the end of the season, perhaps he would be ready to leave Chelsea in the summer.