Chelsea Target Signs New Southampton Contract

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Talented teenager, who has been linked with Stamford Bridge, pens a new deal at St Mary’s Stadium.

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Southampton have handed a new long-term contract to teenage striker Sam Gallagher.

The 18-year-old, who has represented Scotland and England at Under-19 level, has made 19 first-team appearances for the Saints since making his debut in November.

Gallagher was recently linked with a move to Chelsea, who were apparently keen to sign him at the end of the season after scouting him on numerous occasions.

However, the 6 ft 4 in frontman looks set to stay at St Mary’s, having penned a new deal that runs until June 2018.

Chelsea are likely to continue to monitor Gallagher’s progress, but the Blues will have to adjust their previous valuation of £5m.

Gallagher only joined Southampton two years ago when the Saints beat off reported interest from Everton and Newcastle United to land him from Plymouth Argyle.

He has scored twice for Mauricio Pochettino’s side – once in a 2-0 win over Yeovil Town in the League Cup and also in a 4-2 victory over Norwich City in the Premier League.

Gallagher has enjoyed his debut campaign in the first team, although he says he has found it quite surreal at times.

“This time last year I’d have never really thought I’d be getting this contract yet,” he told Southampton’s official website.

“I thought I’d have to battle it out to get one, but this gives me that bit of security so I know that, if I can keep going, the club will repay me.

“I don’t really think I’ve had time to think about how far I’ve come this year, but there is the odd moment where I think ‘wow, who’d have thought I’d be playing in Premier League games?’

“I’m still getting a lot of experience, even from training and being around everyone. Now it’ll be good to see how I push on next season.”

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