Manchester United Keen on Midfield reinforcements with England star top of list | OneFootball

Manchester United plot 2026 move for Atletico Madrid midfielder

United prepare midfield rebuild for 2026

Manchester United are already setting the groundwork for their 2026 transfer plans, and according to GiveMeSport, the focus will shift towards midfield reinforcements. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that United “will add at least one midfielder in 2026”, with Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher emerging as a possible target.

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After a window spent addressing attacking issues, bringing in Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo, attention is now expected to move towards the engine room. The need for fresh energy in midfield has become clear under Ruben Amorim, with Kobbie Mainoo reportedly out of favour and Manuel Ugarte struggling to settle since his arrival.

Romano noted, “Conor Gallagher could be an opportunity, but Atletico Madrid didn’t want to let him go in August. So let’s see what happens in the January window.” He added, “For sure, Manchester United in 2026 will add again, at least one midfielder.”

Gallagher among admired options

Gallagher’s name continues to circulate within Old Trafford’s recruitment discussions, alongside Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller, who is also appreciated by the club’s scouting team. However, as Romano stated, “I don’t see a German club selling one of the stars in the January window at all. So January is not going to be easy.”

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Gallagher’s adaptability remains one of his biggest assets. He has operated across midfield and occasionally on either flank under Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid. Despite his £200,000-a-week wages and the challenges of prising him from Spain, his proven Premier League experience could make him a seamless fit at Old Trafford.

United’s hierarchy reportedly view him as the type of industrious, dynamic midfielder that could complement Amorim’s high-intensity system. For Gallagher, a return to England could also reignite his international prospects, particularly if regular minutes become scarce in Madrid.

Long-term vision and challenges ahead

For United, the priority remains clear: balance the squad and build a structure that aligns with Amorim’s tactical identity. The midfield has been a problem area for several seasons, and the Portuguese manager is determined to find players who can bring tempo, aggression and tactical intelligence.

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Gallagher fits that description. His Premier League experience with Chelsea and Crystal Palace, combined with his development under Simeone, makes him a rare hybrid of technical quality and relentless work rate. Yet, given Atletico’s reluctance to sell and the financial demands likely involved, United may have to bide their time until the summer of 2026.

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The prospect of signing a player like Gallagher will feel both logical and overdue. Fans have seen glimpses of progress under Ruben Amorim, but the midfield still lacks the drive and cohesion to compete with the league’s elite. Gallagher would bring that relentless energy and pressing ability that many feel has been missing since the days of prime Darren Fletcher or Ander Herrera.

United fans understand that 2026 might seem distant, but strategic planning has often been the difference between sustained success and stagnation. Gallagher’s experience in both the Premier League and La Liga could provide the perfect blend of grit and composure for Amorim’s evolving system.

There’s also the appeal of identity. Supporters crave players who reflect the club’s values on the pitch: intensity, determination and a willingness to take responsibility. Gallagher embodies those traits. Whether he becomes a realistic option will depend on finances and Atletico’s stance, but United fans will be encouraged that the club is targeting players of his calibre.

A move like this would signal serious intent to restore Manchester United’s midfield to its historic standards.