Manchester United are eyeing Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher
Manchester United are continuing to monitor Conor Gallagher’s situation closely, with their interest intensifying as doubts grow over his future at Atlético Madrid. According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, manager Ruben Amorim has identified the England international as a key target, believing the midfielder would bring much-needed energy and dynamism to United’s central unit.
Gallagher has slipped down the pecking order under Diego Simeone and no longer holds a prominent role in the team. While Atlético have shown no indication that they are willing to sanction a mid-season exit, United remain firm in their pursuit and are prepared to test the club’s stance.
Now 25, Gallagher was a regular contributor last season, but this campaign has been markedly different. He has made 18 appearances across all competitions yet accumulated only 625 minutes, highlighting the significant drop in trust and influence he currently holds under Simeone.
How has he performed of late?
Gallagher’s reduced involvement this season underscores his declining importance at Atlético, and Manchester United have quickly recognised the opportunity. His limited minutes have only strengthened their interest. Atlético, however, remain firm in their stance: a winter loan is off the table unless they receive an offer in the region of €30 million, a figure they would find difficult to refuse.
Manchester United are eyeing Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher.
Manchester United target Conor Gallagher to improve their midfield.
Ruben Amorim views Gallagher as an ideal fit for his tactical system, valuing the midfielder’s energy, work rate and Premier League experience. The Portuguese manager also admires Gallagher’s capacity to maintain high physical intensity across a congested fixture schedule.
United, meanwhile, see immediate value in the England international, particularly with Casemiro battling recurring fitness issues and the squad’s midfield depth stretched thin. Although Atlético continue to hold their ground, United’s persistence suggests they could eventually meet the asking price, provided the Spanish side soften their stance.
Thoughts about a possible transfer
Even so, questions remain about the long-term value of the move. Critics argue that Gallagher does not provide elite-level creativity and contend that he lacks a clearly defined role, neither a pure defensive midfielder nor a fully polished attacking option. His versatility is useful for squad rotation, but some worry it could impede the continued development of Kobbie Mainoo, who has been one of United’s standout performers this season.
However, from a financial and structural standpoint, the transfer presents minimal downside. In an inflated market, securing a homegrown, Premier League-proven midfielder for €30 million represents solid value. Gallagher would immediately strengthen United’s depth, offering short-term stability and increased competition in a midfield that has struggled with injuries and inconsistency.