Manchester United target Conor Gallagher is pushing for a Premier League move in January 2026
Manchester United’s ongoing struggles in midfield have become a major talking point for supporters. Rúben Amorim has regularly stressed the lack of intensity and control in that area. Casemiro has looked vulnerable at 33, and his patchy form has exposed the team at crucial moments. Manuel Ugarte, meanwhile, has yet to impose himself, often lacking the authority needed to shield the defence.
The demand for someone who can consistently disrupt play and offer positional discipline has therefore grown urgent. United have been keeping tabs on various profiles in the transfer market. Earlier reports revealed that Manchester United lead the race for Gallagher. The report made it clear that the club continue to assess multiple midfield options to find the balance Amorim wants.
Gallagher’s situation at Atlético Madrid
Transfer insider Dean Jones, speaking to TEAMtalk, said that if Conor Gallagher leaves Atlético Madrid, he will likely return to England. Atlético have often used him from the bench instead of starting him regularly, which raises questions about his future. Tottenham Hotspur showed interest during the period when Ange Postecoglou managed them, but whether Thomas Frank will also want him remains uncertain.
Jones noted that the Englishman once preferred staying in London, which could shape his next move significantly. Reports reveal that Spurs are competing with United for Gallagher, which makes the January market more interesting. Atlético want to keep him, but a strong Premier League offer could make them reconsider.
“If it becomes clear that Atletico are ready to let him leave, then a return to the Premier League will definitely be on the cards, as he was always keen to consider other moves when leaving Chelsea.
I always got the impression he was hoping to stay in London, so it would be interesting if a chance like that comes along again.
“I haven’t heard much on Spurs being interested again, but obviously they are looking for a player in the middle of the park – as are Man United.”
Opinion: Where Gallagher Might Fit Best
We watch Gallagher’s situation with interest, though Tottenham look more likely to sign him right now. The 25-year-old clearly prefers a return to the Premier League, and Spurs have consistently viewed him as a midfield solution, especially as James Maddison recovers from injury. That makes sense because Gallagher’s energy and pressing fit their approach, and the club have indicated in the past that they regard him as a valuable fit.
United did pursue him in the summer. However, they reportedly prioritised other targets instead, so it is fair to wonder whether Amorim still wants him over other options. Atlético Madrid are open to letting him leave for around €60 million, a big rise from the £34 million they paid last year, and while they would like to keep him, a substantial offer could change their stance.
For us, Gallagher offers the sort of energy that United currently lack, yet we question whether the price tag and his preference for London will ultimately make Tottenham the more realistic destination. Still, if United truly want to address the flaws Amorim has highlighted in midfield, they should explore Gallagher again. Competition from Spurs complicates matters, but ignoring him could prove costly.