Chelsea make huge Noni Madueke January transfer decision as doubt grows over Gallagher’s future despite Pochettino warning

Chelsea have outlined their stance on Noni Madueke amid growing uncertainty over his future at Stamford Bridge.

The 21-year-old signed for Chelsea in January under Graham Potter from PSV Eindhoven on an initial seven-and-a-half year contract, in a deal worth around £30 million.

Madueke has only made eight appearances for Mauricio Pochettino’s side this term, with the Englishman restricted by a recent injury. However, Madueke has since returned to training and could feature in their Carabao Cup quarter-final clash against Newcastle United on Tuesday night.

Speculation has grown over whether Madueke would be allowed to depart on loan in the January transfer window. David Ornstein of The Athletic has rubbished reports and confirmed the club have ‘no intention of letting him leave the club on loan in January’.

It’s also revealed that Chelsea, who are currently in 10th place in the Premier League, will not let any other first-team player leave temporarily next month.

Another player whose future is unclear is Conor Gallagher. He is yet to agree a new contract at Stamford Bridge and Simon Johnson, also of The Athletic, confirmed ‘sources close to the club say Chelsea are prepared to listen to bids next month too’ for the 23-year-old.

Gallagher has recently reiterated his desire to remain in west London. Speaking in November, he said: “I’m sure that will get sorted out, everyone knows Chelsea is my club and I love playing for them. The fans are brilliant and I’m loving right now and I’m sure it will get itself sorted out.”

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has grown to admire the midfield engine and outlined his stance on Gallagher’s future following their 2-0 win over Sheffield United. Pochettino did cast doubt over Gallagher’s future, insisting it is out of his hands and down to senior club figures.

“That is between the club and the player,” Pochettino told Standard Sport on Gallagher’s future.

“I don’t need to talk too much because it is not my decision. He is in the starting eleven in nearly all the games and is one of the captains.

“For me, he is the type of player that the club needs to have.”

Pochettino concluded: “He’s important because of his Chelsea values. He came from the academy and knows the identity of the club and he is very committed. You can see on the pitch how he runs, plays, and fights.

“He gives everything and he is a really important player. All coaching staff want this type of player in their team.”