Manchester United, West Ham United, Crystal Palace, and Newcastle United will battle it out for Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher.
Conor Gallagher has once again become one of the most talked-about names in the final week of the transfer window, with multiple Premier League clubs vying for his signature. The England international, currently at Atletico Madrid, could be set for a swift return to England just a year after leaving Chelsea for Spain in a £33 million deal.
A crowded race for Gallagher
According to a report by Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, Newcastle United and Everton are weighing up late moves for Gallagher, joining a list of admirers that already includes West Ham United, Manchester United, and Crystal Palace. Such widespread interest underlines Gallagher’s appeal as a high-energy midfielder who thrives in the Premier League’s fast pace.
West Ham are particularly keen as Graham Potter continues his hunt for midfield reinforcements. Their pursuit of Southampton’s Mateus Fernandes has stalled, and Gallagher’s availability presents a proven alternative. Meanwhile, Manchester United are also monitoring developments after deciding not to pursue a big-money move for Carlos Baleba, suggesting Gallagher could provide a more cost-effective option for new boss Rúben Amorim.
Crystal Palace connection could give them upper hand
Crystal Palace’s interest carries extra intrigue given Gallagher’s successful loan spell at Selhurst Park during the 2021/22 season. He made 34 league appearances then under Patrick Vieira, scoring eight goals and providing three assists, and was voted the club’s Player of the Season. His bond with Crystal Palace supporters was clear; after scoring against them in 2022 for Chelsea, he refused to celebrate out of respect.
While nostalgia does not guarantee a reunion, Palace’s need for midfield quality, especially after losing Eberechi Eze to Arsenal, makes Gallagher a logical target. His familiarity with the club and its culture could give Crystal Palace an edge in the race.
For Newcastle United, the appeal is obvious. Injuries to key midfielders Joelinton and Sandro Tonali have left Eddie Howe scrambling for cover, and Gallagher’s work rate and versatility could slot seamlessly into their high-intensity style. Everton, too, remain in the mix, though their financial position may make any serious push more complicated.
At 25, Gallagher is entering his prime years, and the final days of this transfer window may shape his career trajectory. Atletico Madrid may not have intended to sell so soon, but the pull of Premier League suitors could prove too strong. With half of the league reportedly enquiring about his availability, Gallagher’s next move promises to be one of the defining stories of deadline day.