Conor Gallagher: Man United handed clear instructions to beat Spurs in race for La Liga midfielder | OneFootball

It is increasingly appearing as though Conor Gallagher may not remain at Atlético Madrid for the rest of the 2025–26 season.

Having departed Chelsea in the summer of 2024 with ambitions of establishing a reputation in Spanish football, Gallagher enjoyed a respectable debut campaign.

However, the Englishman has not managed to build on that initial promise.

Gallagher’s game‑time struggles

The 25‑year‑old has struggled to secure a regular place in Diego Simeone’s starting line‑up.

Out of his 18 La Liga appearances this season, he has started only four matches, which is far too few for a player determined to force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the FIFA 2026 World Cup.

Moreover, with midfielders such as Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Adam Wharton, and Alex Scott featuring almost every week, Gallagher’s prolonged spells on the bench do him no favours in the Three Lions’ selection race.

As a result, the Chelsea academy graduate now needs to move to a club where he can play consistently.

Atlético open the door

According to a report relayed by The Peoples Person, Gallagher recently held talks with Simeone to discuss his situation. Following that meeting, it is claimed that Atlético will now allow him to leave in January.

On Wednesday, Teamtalk reported that United and Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as frontrunners. Consequently, with the battle lines drawn, the focus now shifts to which of the two clubs can prevail.

Wages the decisive factor

Dean Jones has suggested that one key factor will ultimately decide the race: Gallagher’s wages.

Via Teamtalk, he explained:

“Conor Gallagher’s loan move potential could depend on how much Atlético Madrid are willing to continue to pay towards his wages.”

“Sources indicate, though, that the player’s high wages mean a loan switch is not straightforward.”

“Gallagher earns up to £200,000‑a‑week, and whether that figure is subsidised could make a difference to whether he lands back in the Premier League.”

Therefore, from these claims, it is clear that if the Red Devils want to win the race, they must present an irresistible proposal to Atlético regarding how his wages are handled.

United’s midfield plan

Further, according to Jones, INEOS want Gallagher this winter, and then they will secure another top midfielder in the summer as they look to rebuild United’s engine room.

So Gallagher is INEOS’ top winter target, with Rúben Neves lined up as the fallback option should a deal collapse.

Ultimately, if Gallagher truly is the priority, then United have a clear path: resolve the wage issue and seize the opportunity to bring him back to the Premier League.

Featured image Aitor Alcade via Getty Images

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