Conor Gallagher: Man United target frustrated at Atletico Madrid | OneFootball

Manchester United are expected to invest all their efforts into strengthening their midfield in 2026.

The Red Devils were also linked with multiple names for the position this summer, but ended up signing none.

Instead, the Premier League giants upgraded their attack by adding Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo to their roster. Ruben Amorim also secured the signature of Senne Lammens to address his goalkeeping woes, while Diego Leon arrived to add more cover to the left-back position.

After just one win in five games across competitions this season, though, it is clear that United need reinforcements in the engine room.

Amorim was keen to sign Carlos Baleba for the job this summer, but Brighton & Hove Albion refused to let him go. Meanwhile, the likes of Adam Wharton, Angelo Stiller, and Conor Gallagher were linked with the club as well, but none of those moves materialised.

It now appears that the Red Devils could have a change of luck in their pursuit of the Atletico Madrid man.

Gallagher is Premier League proven

Gallagher rose through the ranks at Chelsea before impressing on loan at Crystal Palace. He was quite influential for the Blues in the 2023/24 campaign as well, registering seven goals and nine assists from 50 games, all but four of which were starts.

However, the London giants opted to sell him to Los Rojiblancos last summer. The Englishman enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in Spain, registering 50 appearances under Diego Simeone, including 28 starts.

While previous reports stated that the player is settled at the Metropolitano Stadium, it now appears that the situation has changed.

Gallagher has lost prominence following the arrival of Johnny Cardoso this summer. The 25 year old has managed just 99 minutes of first team action from four games in the league this season, which includes just one start.

While he was in the starting XI against Liverpool in the Champions League in midweek, Gallagher is reportedly concerned about the impact of his reduced game time.

United want to stay informed

According to TBR Football, United have asked to be kept informed of Gallagher’s situation ahead of January. The report adds that the player is growing frustrated by his lack of first team action with the LaLiga giants, especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup just around the corner.

Speaking to TBR Football, journalist Graeme Bailey said: “As with many players at this moment in time, the World Cup is an added complication or worry. Gallagher is one of those players, who if playing regularly, at his best, would be firmly in contention for his national side – so that issue can’t be overlooked.

“I am told the player would dearly like to make it back into the Atletico Madrid side and that is his priority, but clubs are paying real interest to him and he is very much one to keep an eye on for January.”

Gallagher fits the profile that United lack in their midfield, with his energy and tenacity likely to be a welcome addition on the pitch.

However, the Red Devils could face competition from Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Everton and Palace for his signature.

Feature image George Wood via Getty Images

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