Ralph Hasenhuttl highlights Chelsea transfer problem that Crystal Palace will be aware of

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl's comments on finding it difficult to find anybody to talk to at Chelsea regarding a move permanent move for Armando Broja might just be ringing clear in the ears of those at Crystal Palace.

The Saints have made no secret about wanting to keep hold of Broja - currently on loan at St Mary’s from the Blues - beyond the summer, either on loan again or by signing him permanently. The ball is firmly in Chelsea's court though, with Broja having signed a five-year contract at Stamford Bridge prior to linking up with Hasenhuttl on the south coast.

There’s also the added complication of Chelsea’s ongoing takeover, with owner Roman Abramovich having his assets frozen by the UK government which has meant the Blues are unable to buy or sell players while under their current ownership.

"We all know the situation at Chelsea," Hasenhuttl said on Thursday. "There are a lot of changes there and it is not so easy to find the right person to talk to about futures of players. It is easier to concentrate on your job and what we can do between now and the end of the season. The higher up the table we finish, the more attractive we are for players and this is the goal for the last seven games."

Over in south London, Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira and chairman Steve Parish might be having the same problem with the future of Conor Gallagher, who Vieira has said needs to be playing regular football to aid his development. That is something he is assured of at Selhurst Park where he’s enjoyed a breakout season in the Premier League on loan from Chelsea.

The 22-year-old has scored eight goals and laid on five more in 32 appearances for the Eagles, leading him to earn his first senior England cap in