Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher remains a Manchester United target as the club considers some recruitment this January to solve the problem positions that are making matters more challenging for Ruben Amorim’s side on the pitch.
Manchester United overlooked the midfield department in the summer, despite the departure of Christian Eriksen.
Ruben Amorim has often opted for a midfield pivot of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes this season, overlooking Kobbie Mainoo and casting doubt over the academy graduate’s future at Old Trafford.
With Casemiro and Fernandes in their 30s, and Ineos thus far prioritising young players, it seems probable that the midfield department will get a revamp in 2026. United already have an agreement to sign wonderkid Cristian Orozco from Colombia.
However, United have been linked with an array of midfielders in recent months. A failed attempt to sign Carlos Baleba in the summer could see the Red Devils return for the Brighton star in the coming year.
Other names include Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand, and Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher.
Conor Gallagher admires Man Utd midfielder Mason Mount
United made an enquiry about Gallagher in the final days of the summer transfer window.
The former Chelsea ace stayed put at Atletico Madrid, but that has not quenched speculation over his future.
United remain keen on Gallagher, and there’s a possibility he could leave the La Liga club in January.
In a previous interview with The Sun, Gallagher revealed that Mount was a close friend whom he looked up to after coming through the Chelsea academy and into the first team.
“Mason, who is a mate of mine as well, plays in a similar position to me, so I’ve watched him a lot. It’s nice to see he’s doing well and someone I can look up to.
“We have come through the academy system and shared so many experiences.
“We used to go abroad for tournaments. In one of the finals, I was playing with Mason and Declan Rice in midfield. It’s crazy to think that both of them are playing for England.
“Hopefully one day I can join them.”
This suggests that Gallagher would already have a friend in the United dressing room, which would help him settle at the club. It remains to be seen if United will make another enquiry to sign the 25-year-old with valuable Premier League experience.
Players to play for Man Utd and Atletico Madrid
If Gallagher signs for United in the new year, he will become the fifth player to play for both Atletico Madrid and United.
David de Gea was 20 years old when he joined United from Atletico Madrid before going on to become the best goalkeeper in the world.
Diego Forlan became a cult hero at United and starred in La Liga for Atleti.
The other players include Radamel Falcao and Memphis Depay.
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