‘I want to play as much as possible’ – Man United transfer target hints at move

English midfielder Conor Gallagher has spoken candidly about his situation at Atlético Madrid, admitting that while he’s content at the club, he craves more consistent playing time, comments that have reignited speculation about a potential move back to the Premier League.

The 25-year-old joined Atlético Madrid from Chelsea in the summer of 2024 and has since become part of Diego Simeone’s deep midfield rotation.

His energy and pressing style have made him a valuable squad player, though he has struggled to cement a guaranteed starting role in the team under Simeone.

Despite making several key appearances in both La Liga and the Champions League this season, Gallagher has played just 495 minutes of football in the league in 15 appearances.

Sources in Spain have described him as “a player Simeone trusts, but not indispensable,” suggesting that while his work rate and playing style are appreciated, his place in the pecking order is far from secure.

“I’m happy, but obviously I want to play as much as possible,” the England international said, per Sky Sports, as reported by Mirror.

“Every footballer would like to be on the pitch for 90 minutes every single game. Obviously, I’m at a world-class club and there’s a lot of amazing players.

“The most important thing is how the team plays and the results we get. At the moment, it’s going really well for us.”

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano recently confirmed that Manchester United are among the clubs monitoring Gallagher’s situation closely.

United boss Rúben Amorim is reportedly eager to strengthen his midfield next year, and Gallagher’s blend of work rate and leadership appeals to the Portuguese manager.

Alongside Gallagher, United are also scouting Carlos Baleba (Brighton), Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), and Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), all young midfielders with high energy profiles suited to Amorim’s aggressive system.

Despite the transfer chatter, Gallagher appears focused on the present. Atlético Madrid are enjoying a strong campaign and the midfielder remains committed to contributing whenever called upon.

Still, with the January window approaching and Man United’s midfield overhaul looming, speculation about Gallagher’s future is unlikely to fade.

If his minutes don’t increase in the second half of the season, a summer move, potentially back to England, could become a realistic possibility.

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