Manchester United keen on loan for Atletico ace, Atletico want €30m permanent deal

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Manchester United are interested in a loan move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher in January, but the La Liga side are seeking a permanent move instead. United are known to be in the market for midfield reinforcements, and injuries to Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo could hasten their hunt.

The Red Devils explored a last-minute move for Gallagher over the summer, but ultimately could not come to terms with Atletico. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported on his YouTube channel that United are now keen to return for Gallagher in January, but Atletico are only considering a €30m permanent deal.

Gallagher himself is reportedly keen on a loan for more first team minutes. The England international is hoping to be a part of the Three Lions’ squad for the 2026 World Cup finals next summer.

The 25-year-old spent five years on the books at Chelsea but much of that time was spent on loan. He enjoyed a breakout campaign while on loan at Crystal Palace during the 2021/22 season, scoring eight goals in 34 Premier League appearances.

He returned to Chelsea and became a first team regular for the following two seasons, captaining the side on several occasions in the absence of Reece James and Ben Chilwell.

Gallagher joined Atletico in the summer of 2024 but has struggled to nail down a regular first team role under Diego Simeone. He’s made 50 appearances for the club, scoring five goals.

As such, his place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad is in question. United are seeking a boost in January as they aim to finish in the Champions League places in the Premier League table this season.

A midfield rebuild has been mooted, with signings expected in both the January and summer windows. Gallagher, alongside Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Elliot Anderson are some of the most prominent names on United’s wish list.

The other three mentioned will be difficult to prize from Premier League rivals however, so United could turn to Gallagher in the meantime.

Nadji is a football writer with over 10 years of experience covering the Premier League. His work has been featured on Football Fancast, Arsenal-Mania, and Arsenal.com, where he has built a reputation for delivering sharp analysis, engaging storytelling, and in-depth coverage of the game.