According to The Pitch Prospect, Aston Villa are interested in signing Conor Gallagher from Chelsea this summer.
Gallagher, a successful product of the Blues’ Cobham academy, sees his current contract at Stamford Bridge expire next summer.
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The 24-year-old is yet to sign a new contract despite being one of Chelsea’s standout performers all season.
With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Villa are keen to secure the midfielder ahead of next season’s Champions League campaign.
However, Unai Emery’s side must first sell in accordance with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules before they can complete a deal.
Gallagher has made 49 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions this season, scoring seven goals and assisting nine more.
While Reece James was out for an extended period of time due to injury, he served as captain for much of the season.
London rivals Tottenham have also been linked with a summer move but have so far been unwilling to meet their £50m asking price.
Chelsea fans responded to such links by unfurling a large Gallagher banner in the Shed End at Stamford Bridge during the 2-0 win over Spurs.
He even assisted Trevoh Chalobah on the opening goal that night, although his future with the Blues is still uncertain.
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Gallagher is expected to make his 50th appearance of the season for Chelsea on Sunday when they host Bournemouth on the final day of the match.
Mauricio Pochettino, who admitted he has nothing to do with the midfielder’s future, could expect his side to qualify for Europe.
Chelsea need just a point against the Cherries to secure European football for next season, with the Europa Conference League their current target in sixth place.
However, should they stay in this position and Manchester City win the FA Cup final against Manchester United, they will qualify for the Europa League instead.
They could also overtake Spurs and finish fifth with a win to secure their place in Europe’s second-tier football league, but the north London side would have to admit defeat at Sheffield United.