Manchester United are monitoring Conor Gallagher as a possible January target amid Kobbie Mainoo uncertainty
Manchester United are reviewing their midfield structure once again as the January transfer window approaches. Talks now focus on possible reinforcements. The Red Devils continue adjusting to Ruben Amorim’s tactical plans and have kept a close watch on several players since the summer window closed. According to an exclusive report from Football Insider, they have now shifted their attention to Conor Gallagher. He joined Atletico Madrid from Chelsea in 2024 and is already familiar with the Premier League.
The midfielder’s situation in Spain remains uncertain, which gives Amorim’s side a chance to revisit their earlier interest. United reportedly received the chance to sign Gallagher on deadline day, but the talks collapsed before they reached an agreement. Amorim’s side instead chose to complete a deal for Senne Lammens.
They still keep Gallagher’s name on their shortlist for future consideration. The same report reveals that United view the 25-year-old as a good option, especially as a possible replacement for Kobbie Mainoo. The young midfielder stays low in Amorim’s pecking order. The 20-year-old struggles for game time and mostly comes off the bench. Still, club officials insist on keeping him beyond January. They took the same stance last summer and refused to let him leave on loan.
Interestingly, we reported earlier in October that no January exit is on the cards for Mainoo as Manchester United will block the move. The club clearly wants to keep him as part of their long-term plans even though Gallagher continues to draw attention. Meanwhile, we also covered a report in September revealing that Spurs are in the race for Gallagher*.* That competition could make United’s pursuit more complicated if they decide to act in winter.
Gallagher for Mainoo: A Risk United Cannot Overlook
Manchester United are monitoring Conor Gallagher as a possible January target amid Kobbie Mainoo uncertainty .
Man United keep tabs on Conor Gallagher after Amorim’s approval
Replacing Kobbie Mainoo with Conor Gallagher may look like a simple tactical move, but their playing styles differ completely. Mainoo plays as a deep-lying playmaker who controls tempo, breaks pressure, and links defence with attack. Gallagher adds energy and aggression to the midfield. He presses high and makes forward runs into attacking areas. The 25-year-old midfielder’s intensity brings urgency in the midfield, but he lacks the calm control that Mainoo provides.
If United trade Mainoo’s composure for Gallagher’s drive, they risk losing balance in their build-up play. Surely, Gallagher adds goals and defensive effort, but he cannot offer the same technical control that Mainoo gives United. This change could upset how Amorim’s team manage possession. It might hurt them in close matches where patience and precision matter most.
If the club sells Mainoo, a homegrown talent with great promise, for short-term gain, it sends the wrong message. It shows a short-sighted plan that focuses on immediate needs instead of the future. Financially, Mainoo’s sale could ease Fair Play pressure, but such a move might damage United later, both in reputation and team development. As a club rebuilding its identity, United must protect their young core. They should avoid quick fixes that slow their progress.