Arsenal are set to battle Tottenham for a transfer target this summer, if recent reports are to be believed.
The two North London clubs are in the market for some improvements to the squad, ahead of a huge Premier League campaign.
Both teams are in different phases of their project though, with the Gunners hunting down a league title, while Tottenham are still building to that possibility.
Ange Postecoglou has been tasked with building the foundations for a return to the Champions League as well as long-term pushes for silverware.
A fifth-placed finish last season was an improvement, with a style of play that won over the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium faithful.
It’s clear though, that despite those improvements, there’s further that the side needs to progress to be at the top.
The midfield appears to be a priority position for the summer transfer window, with a move for Conor Gallagher hotly contested over the coming weeks.
Arsenal make Conor Gallagher transfer contact
As Gallagher has been continually linked with a transfer to Tottenham over the past few years, the interest appears clear.
However, that is dependent on agreeing a move with both the player and rivals Chelsea, with only one year remaining on his contract at Stamford Bridge.
With energy and quality, the England international would fit Postecoglou and his squad well, but there is competition.
Atletico Madrid have been linked with a move for Gallagher, along with fellow Premier League club Aston Villa.
So too, it appears, are Arsenal as Spanish media outlet AS claims that the Gunners have made contact with Chelsea over the midfielder.
That adds some potential North London derby spice to the race for his signature, assuming he does leave the Blues this summer.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg replacement
For Tottenham, a move to secure Gallagher ahead of their rivals would be a statement of intent in the transfer window.
The midfielder is an ideal replacement for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who looks set to leave Spurs over the coming weeks.
Both players possess energy in abundance, with an ability to control vast amounts of space just on their own.
Gallagher adds an ability in the final third, having shown he can score and create goals for both Chelsea and Crystal Palace.
At 24 years old, he is nearing the peak years of his career and will also count towards a homegrown slot in the squad, further helping the registration rules Spurs must abide by.
All things point towards a deal that could be ideal for Postecoglou, should they beat Arsenal to an agreement.