Report: Man United told to pay £35m to sign La Liga midfielder in January | OneFootball

United midfield options sharpen focus

There have been no talks yet with Atletico Madrid for Conor Gallagher, but Old Trafford officials are already aware that the Spanish club would prefer a permanent £35m sale rather than a loan. That stance matters as January edges closer and Ruben Amorim weighs up how best to reshape his engine room. As reported by the Daily Mail.

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Gallagher timing and transfer reality

United enquired late in the summer window about the 22 cap England midfielder, and that context remains important. At 25, Gallagher stands out because he is available now, not in theory, not next summer.

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The uncertainty over Fernandes, Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo makes immediacy valuable. As one well placed observer noted, “Gallagher gives you energy, leadership and Premier League resilience without a bedding in period”.

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Wider shortlist under review

Confidential revealed that Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, Tyler Adams and Joao Gomes are also being discussed. Most would require patience until the summer. Gallagher and Ruben Neves, who is looking to leave Al Hilal, represent the rare January options who could alter the mood quickly.

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There is logic, structure and caution, but also that lingering sense of hesitation. Gallagher at £35m does not feel like an outrageous fee in a market where energy and durability are at a premium. Fans see a player who presses, covers ground and sets standards, qualities United have lacked too often in midfield.

Supporters also note the subtext. If Fernandes, Casemiro and even Mainoo carry uncertainty, then waiting until the summer feels risky. January signings do not need to be glamorous, they need to stabilise. As one fan put it, “United do not need another project midfielder, they need someone who can run, tackle and lead now”.

There is also an emotional pull. Gallagher is Premier League proven, England tested and hardened by big games. Compared with a Saudi return for Neves or waiting on younger options, Gallagher feels like a football decision rather than a financial puzzle. United fans want clarity, decisiveness and momentum. This situation offers a chance to show all three.