Conor Gallagher in action for Atletico Madrid, Oliver Glasner pictured in a circular inset
(Credit: Imago)
Callum O'Connell
Tue 26 August 2025 7:00, UK
Crystal Palace have joined the likes of Tottenham and Newcastle in the race to sign Conor Gallagher after making contact with Atletico Madrid over a move.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the 25-year-old would be open to a return to South London.
After Eberechi Eze’s move to Arsenal, the Eagles are preparing to step up their efforts in the transfer market, with Gallagher among a number of ambitious targets.
This comes after reports [first by Bobby Manzi] claimed Palace are interested in the midfielder and have made contact with Atletico Madrid over a potential loan move.
Meanwhile, Brown told Football Insider last month that Gallagher is open to returning to the Premier League ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Tottenham, Newcastle, Aston Villa and Everton are also believed to be keeping tabs on the England international’s situation but have yet to make formal moves.
However, Football Insider exclusively revealed on 13 July that Atletico will demand £50million to sell Gallagher which may make any move difficult.
Atletico Madrid midfielder Connor Gallagher representing England
(Credit: Getty Images)
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES
Crystal Palace eye Conor Gallagher and Bilal El Khannouss deals
Football Insider revealed on 16 August that Crystal Palace want Leicester star Bilal El Khannouss to replace Eze as they begin their search for replacements.
Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted that Gallagher has now emerged as an ambitious target that the Eagles are hopeful of landing.
“*Conor Gallagher could be one Palace go for,*” he told Football Insider.
“It seems they’ve spoken to Atletico Madrid about whether it would be possible, and I think it’s the type of move that they need to be looking at.
“He’s a different type of player to Eze, in no way is he a like-for-like replacement.
“But he works hard, gets close to people, puts his foot in, and makes those late runs into the box.
Eberechi Eze poses with the Community Shield
Crystal Palace are aiming to replace Eberechi Eze. (Credit: Imago)
“Eze is different, he always wants the ball in to feet which is where Mateta came in so useful to knock the ball of to him and then they’d be on the attack.
“So it would be a change for Palace, but maybe one the manager would prefer.
“From the player’s point of view as well, I believe he would be open to a return to Palace.
“He knows the club and the area, he’ll still have some good relationships in the squad and with the staff, so it would be a welcome return for him.
“If Atletico are willing to let him go, I think it’s a move that makes a lot of sense.”
Man United set sights on Adam Wharton deal
Speculation about potential incomings at Palace is set to dominate their plans after Eze’s departure, but interest in some of their key players remains strong.
Football Insider revealed on 22 August that Man United are interested in signing Adam Wharton as Ruben Amorim looks to bolster his midfield options.
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton in action.
Man United are interested in signing Adam Wharton. (Credit: Imago)
United’s interest in Wharton comes after missing out on a deal for Brighton star Carlos Baleba after Football Insider revealed Brighton value Baleba at £100million.
Palace are expected to deliver the same response at their rivals, as United’s pursuit of a central midfielder enters the final days of the window.
For more Crystal Palace and exclusive news, follow us onFacebook or join our brand newWhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.
Related Posts