Chelsea are finding themselves in very similar position this summer to where they were 12 months ago.
One of their most important players last season, Conor Gallagher, has just a year left on his current deal, and there is no talk of a new contract being imminent.
Reports over the last 24 hours have stated that Aston Villa have opened talks with the Blues over a potential deal this summer, with Chelsea being understood as open to a sale for the right price.
Last year, there was a similar story taking place with Mason Mount. There was a time where it was unimaginable that the academy graduate would ever be sold by the club.
However, he ended up moving to Manchester United, where it is fair to see he has not yet hit the same heights that he did at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea think Gallagher is better than Mount
The comparisons between the two situations are easy to see, however journalist Kaveh Solhekol has stated on Twitter that the Blues actually see their current player as better all-round than their former one.
He said: “Chelsea won’t let Conor Gallagher go for less than £50m. Mason Mount went for 50+5 and Gallagher is captain and regarded as better all-round player. Gallagher has been model professional. Not agitated for big new deal. Aston Villa and Atletico want him. Spurs expected to bid.”
Gallagher crucial to Mauricio Pochettino
Under Mauricio Pochettino, the England international was arguably the most important player to how Chelsea operated last season.
It remains to be seen what the new boss thinks of him, after it was announced that Enzo Maresca was going to become their new head coach.
Given the fact he has been handed a lengthy contract, it suggests there is faith in his ability to continue the project into the future, and his style of play will surely be taken into account when any decisions are made about signings or sales this summer.