FA issue 'transfer ban' that is bad news for Tottenham and Ange Postecoglou

Tottenham’s pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher has been dealt a blow after he was named in the England squad for Euro 2024. Gallagher, 24, turned in an impressive display in the 3-0 win over Bosnia on Monday to seal his place on the plane for Germany, but at club level speculation over his future continues.

The academy product was considered one of Chelsea’s most important performers in an inconsistent Premier League season, captaining the team at times under Mauricio Pochettino.

Indeed, the Argentinian’s surprise departure at the end of the campaign reportedly centred around his refusal to agree to Gallagher being sold to help the club comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.

The player has continued to be linked with Spurs following a failed attempt from Ange Postecoglou to land him last summer. But they are now forbidden from opening discussions with the star for the foreseeable future following a ruling from the Football Association.

The footballing authority have blocked clubs, agents and players from making contact over moves for England players while they are away on international duty this summer. The Three Lions head for their base in Gelsenkirchen on Monday, six days ahead of their opening tournament clash with Serbia.

Postecoglou is expected to make new signings when the window opens as he continues his overhaul at Spurs. However, it now remains to be seen whether he’s prepared to remain patient in his pursuit of Gallagher, given no deal is likely to be in place before pre-season action gets underway.

In the unlikely scenario of a disastrous group stage exit, England would return home following their match with Slovenia on June 25. But should they make a second successive final at the Euros, they will be in action until Sunday, July 14, just over a month before the 2024/25 Premier League season gets underway.

The likes of Ivan Toney and Eberechi Eze, of Brentford and Crystal Palace, could also be affected. The pair have both been touted to move this summer having been linked with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United.

Gallagher has remained tight-lipped on his future, with his contract not expiring until the summer of 2025. But Stamford Bridge bosses know that failing to cash in when the transfer window opens on June 14 would be a risk given he can leave on a free in 12 months’ time.

Gallagher himself is reportedly keen to remain at Chelsea, despite the departure of Pochettino. Enzo Maresca has since been confirmed as his replacement, with the former Leicester man yet to speak publicly on his transfer intentions following his appointment earlier this month.

Gallagher has been at Chelsea since joining at the age of eight back in 2008. He was brought into the senior ranks in 2019, but was sent on loan spells at Charlton, West Brom, Swansea and Crystal Palace before finally establishing himself at his parent club.