Writing for Football Transfer Tavern, Caleb Sage argues that the young Scot can become a world-beater at Stamford Bridge.
The midfield quality
“Presently, Maurizio Sarri has a host of quality midfield options to choose from at Chelsea such as regular starters Jorginho, N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic. While from the bench, Ross Barkley, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Cesc Fabregas can often be seen, showing just how spoilt for choice the Italian is when comes to selecting players for the middle of the park.”
Bright prospect
“And going forward, Sarri will likely be able to call upon even more talented midfielders with Billy Gilmour on the books. The Blues poached Gilmour from Rangers last year, securing one of Scotland’s biggest talents for a development fee believed to be worth around £500k, a fee that could one day prove to be an absolute bargain given the ability and potential of the 17-year-old.”
Long read ahead
“Gilmour, a midfielder in the playmaker mould, is a very technical footballer who can bring both a bit of spark and bite to the centre. On top of all of the quality he displays on the ball with his touch and passing, he is also not afraid to get involved in the more physical side of things. At 17, Gilmour has a long way to go until he can stake a real claim for a place in Sarri’s squad.”
Unlimited potential
“While the route there also has the potential to be completely blocked by a player such as Mason Mount, another Chelsea youth product, currently thriving out on loan at Derby County under Frank Lampard. However, there is no doubt Gilmour, who is already a Scotland U21 international, has the potential to become a truly special midfielder one day be it at Stamford Bridge or elsewhere.”