Conor Gallagher’s lack of interest in being sent out on loan by Chelsea for a second successive season played a key role in West Ham failing to land the England international, according to Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge.

The Hammers were reportedly among the teams keen on recruiting the 22-year-old on a temporary basis, following his successful spell at Crystal Palace, but Bridge says David Moyes’ side were never likely to secure his signature:

“He didn’t want to go back on loan. A number of Premier League clubs would have taken him on loan. I think West Ham would have taken him as well.”

It doesn’t look as though Gallagher will be available in the January transfer window either, with new Blues boss Graham Potter having already said he is a big fan of the midfielder.

West Ham will likely turn their sights elsewhere in the New Year as they look to strengthen their options in midfield. Tomas Soucek has struggled for form in the opening weeks of the campaign and the club haven’t really replaced Mark Noble who retired in the summer.