Tottenham should not be tempted to let Conor Gallagher leave in January, even if the midfielder is no longer guaranteed a place in Roberto De Zerbi’s strongest starting XI.

A report from German outlet Fussball News claims Aston Villa, Leeds United and Everton are monitoring the England international ahead of the winter transfer window. The report says the clubs are considering possible approaches, but stresses that no concrete negotiations with Tottenham have taken place.

That is worth keeping in perspective. There is no confirmed offer, and the original report does not establish that a loan deal is on the table.

But the interest is understandable. Gallagher has started only a handful of league games this season following the arrival of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, while James Maddison is another major option in De Zerbi’s midfield.

Gallagher still has an important role at Spurs

There is no shame in acknowledging that Gallagher is not currently one of Tottenham’s first-choice midfielders. Tonali and Fernandes have brought quality and balance to the side, and Maddison offers a level of creativity that Gallagher cannot replicate.

But a squad cannot be built around 11 players alone. Gallagher offers something different: relentless energy, aggression in the press and the ability to cover several roles across the midfield. He can come on when Spurs need fresh legs, help protect a lead or provide a more direct, energetic option when a game becomes stretched.

We have already made the case for Gallagher’s value after his display at Manchester United, when his work rate and versatility stood out. More recently, he answered the criticism surrounding his Chelsea past with a committed contribution in the win at Stamford Bridge.

He also earned an 8/10 in our player ratings after that victory over Chelsea, despite coming off the bench. Those are precisely the contributions that can get overlooked when attention is fixed on the starting XI.

De Zerbi needs depth for the long season

Tottenham are trying to build momentum and compete for a place in Europe. They will need rotation, cover for injuries and players who can change the tempo of a match.

Letting a proven Premier League midfielder leave halfway through the campaign would reduce those options at a time when the squad should be getting stronger, not thinner.

Gallagher may have to accept that he will not start every important game. That does not make him expendable. If he is willing to embrace a role in which he can still make a meaningful impact, Spurs should be keen to keep him.

Tottenham do not need to sell every player who slips down the pecking order. Gallagher brings qualities this midfield still needs, and De Zerbi would be better served having him available for the second half of the season.