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As Tottenham Hotspur continue their impressive surge under Roberto De Zerbi, squad depth and tactical flexibility remain vital to sustaining momentum across multiple competitions. Amid swirling exit rumors linking midfielder Conor Gallagher with a potential departure from North London, prominent Spurs expert and Lilywhite Rose podcast host John Wenham has issued a clear warning to the club: Tottenham should not entertain selling the 26-year-old England international.
Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, Wenham addressed the speculation surrounding Gallagher’s role following major summer arrivals, insisting that the midfielder still holds a crucial place in De Zerbi’s plans.
Since arriving at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium from Atletico Madrid last winter, the 22-cap England international has made 26 appearances in Lilywhite. However, the subsequent big-money additions of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes have placed heavy competition on the central engine room, resulting in Gallagher making fewer guaranteed starts under De Zerbi.
This shift in playing time has naturally stoked transfer murmurs. Reports from Fussball News revealed that three Premier League clubs, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Everton, are monitoring Gallagher’s situation as they look to address their own midfield shortcomings. Despite this outside interest, Wenham believes that the player understands his value to the squad and recognizes that ample opportunities lie ahead.
“Whilst it is unarguable that Conor’s starting spot in the team is no longer a guarantee following the signings of Tonali and Fernandes, the England international has still featured in seven of Tottenham’s nine Premier League matches this season. Conor knows opportunities will present themselves with his ability to play in any of De Zerbi’s three midfield positions as a six, eight or a number 10.”
Rather than viewing his impact strictly through starting XIs, supporters and analysts have increasingly appreciated Gallagher’s unique profile as an energetic impact option off the bench. His relentless high-pressing style has been particularly noticeable during statement away performances at Stamford Bridge and Old Trafford in recent weeks, where closing out matches under pressure is paramount.
With experience playing for elite clubs including Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, and Spurs, Gallagher represents a proven Premier League asset whose versatility across central midfield roles provides essential insurance during an arduous campaign.
Wenham firmly argued that now is not the right time for Tottenham to cash in on a player of Gallagher’s caliber, particularly when securing a return to elite European football remains the primary objective for De Zerbi’s in-form side.
Allowing an experienced, battle-tested English midfielder to move directly to domestic rivals would introduce unnecessary risk. As Tottenham navigate the demanding winter fixture schedule, retaining Gallagher ensures that De Zerbi maintains the depth, tenacity, and tactical adaptability required to keep Spurs fighting at the very top of the Premier League table.