With the January transfer window fast approaching, in recent weeks, United have reportedly stepped up their efforts to potentially add midfield reinforcements to the squad.
According to reports in the Metro, as well as quotes coming from Fabrizio Romano, a move away for Conor Gallagher has become more likely than ever, with Atletico allegedly looking to move on the Englishman following only three starts this season.
With the midfield being one of United’s weaker areas on the pitch, and one that the club’s recruitment team has identified as a priority ahead of the 2026 summer window, being linked to the likes of Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Elliot Anderson, Gallagher could end up being a solid addition to the squad.
However, Atletico Madrid has reportedly ruled out any chance of a loan move this January, with the club only open to a permanent sale, according to Fabrizio Romano, who has expanded on the story.
What Romano said about Gallagher price
Whilst speaking on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio went into more detail on Gallagher’s current situation in Madrid, with him saying:
“I think there is a chance for Conor Gallagher to leave Atletico Madrid already in the January transfer window or eventually in the summer.”
“This will depend also on the formula of the deal. Manchester United were interested in Conor Gallagher as an opportunity in the final days of August but Atletico said no to a loan move and they don’t have that kind of intention.”
“I think if maybe a permanent transfer proposal arrives, that would be different. Maybe something around 30 million euros (£26m), sources say that this could be the way to get Conor Gallagher in the January transfer window.”
With United’s current midfield targets all rumored to cost upwards of 70 million at least in Wharton, Baleba, and Anderson, Gallagher could potentially be a good opportunity for United to take advantage of a reduced price tag this January.
Would Gallagher fit in at United?
In order to effectively match the profile that is required from a midfielder in Ruben Amorim’s midfield setup, a player will need to be able to essentially do it all, tackle, cover ground, etc, as well as be able to progress and drive the ball forward.
This is why a player like Bruno Fernandes is able to still remain effective in this system despite playing a lot deeper than he would have been used to before, as he is a very versatile player and still is able to impact matches for United wherever on the pitch.
Conor Gallagher is a player who, judging by what we have already seen from his time in the Premier League at Chelsea, matches this versatile profile well, possessing the engine to get up and down the pitch consistently throughout the game and be a workhorse at both ends of the field.
However, whether he possesses the quality needed in regards to ball progression and retention is questionable, and may not be worth the compromise when United could potentially wait for a more suited profile, such as an Adam Wharton from Palace in the summer.
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