Man United set to move for La Liga midfielder | OneFootball

Manchester United Eye Conor Gallagher as Midfield Reinforcement

Manchester United’s January transfer plans are taking shape, with Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher strongly linked as a potential addition. According to a detailed report from TEAMtalk, United’s board and manager Ruben Amorim are considering the England international as a realistic option to bolster their midfield.

Amorim, who faces growing pressure after United’s recent poor run of form, is said to have pushed the case for reinforcements. Even if he departs Old Trafford, sources suggest the club will still pursue midfield upgrades. Gallagher has emerged as a name high on the list, with United seeing him as an ‘ideal successor’ to Casemiro, who is widely anticipated to leave next summer.

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Gallagher Considered More Affordable Than Baleba

While Brighton’s Carlos Baleba is regarded as United’s top target, his £110 million price tag is a significant obstacle. Gallagher, valued at around £50 million by Atletico, represents a more achievable signing. Atletico paid Chelsea £36 million for the midfielder in 2024, but he has since fallen down Diego Simeone’s pecking order, making only two La Liga starts this season.

The financial difference between Baleba and Gallagher could dictate United’s winter business. One club insider described Gallagher as “a more realistic addition for the Red Devils at this stage.”

Gallagher’s Desire for Premier League Return

Gallagher himself is open to a Premier League move, though his priority could cause complications for United. TEAMtalk transfer insider Dean Jones revealed, “should Atletico decide to sell Gallagher, the Premier League would be his preferred destination.” However, Jones added that “a return to London is Gallagher’s preference.”

That stance leaves United vulnerable to losing out if a London club steps forward. Tottenham Hotspur have been loosely linked, but as Jones noted, “I always got the impression he was hoping to stay in London so it would be interesting if a chance like that comes along again.”

Alternatives and United’s Managerial Uncertainty

United’s recruitment department are also said to admire Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson, although both would command higher fees than Gallagher. With Jason Wilcox keen to back Amorim despite rising pressure after the 3-1 defeat to Brentford, United’s direction remains uncertain.

Reports indicate Gareth Southgate, Oliver Glasner and Andoni Iraola are on a shortlist should Amorim be sacked, with a defeat to Sunderland potentially decisive. Regardless of managerial changes, the midfield void is expected to be addressed in January, with Gallagher now firmly in the conversation.

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United fans will view this with a mix of excitement and caution. On one hand, Gallagher represents the kind of energetic, combative midfielder who could inject urgency and drive into a flat United side. His Premier League experience, combined with his work rate and versatility, make him an appealing option. At £50 million, he would also represent better value compared to some of the inflated fees currently quoted for talent across Europe.

However, concerns remain. Gallagher’s clear preference for a London return might unsettle fans who want players fully committed to Old Trafford. The sense that United could once again become a “Plan B” destination is frustrating, particularly when the club’s rivals in London appear more attractive to certain players. Supporters may also be sceptical of spending heavily on a player who has struggled to cement his place in Simeone’s side.

The wider picture is perhaps even more pressing. Amorim’s future is under intense scrutiny, and that instability casts doubt over United’s January strategy. Fans are desperate for a coherent long-term plan, not another stop-gap signing or panic move. Gallagher could thrive in the right set-up, but without managerial clarity, questions will linger over whether United are capable of maximising his potential.

For many United fans, the feeling is one of expectation mixed with anxiety. They want Gallagher, but more than anything, they want to see a stable, ambitious club capable of attracting players for footballing reasons, not simply because they were priced out elsewhere.