Conor Gallagher is reportedly considering the possibility of leaving Atletico Madrid on loan in the January transfer window, and Manchester United have quickly become one of the leading contenders for his signature.
As revealed by journalist Graeme Bailey, the English midfielder is becoming increasingly dissatisfied with his lack of regular minutes in Spain, which has prompted him to explore opportunities elsewhere—one of which could be a move to Old Trafford.
Manchester United are planning to reinforce their midfield options in 2025, and Gallagher is believed to be high on their list of targets.
He is joined on that shortlist by Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba and promising England youngster Elliot Anderson.
However, recent developments suggest that United’s chances of signing Gallagher have improved, as the 25-year-old is now more receptive to a loan move midway through the season.
The Red Devils had already expressed interest in the former Chelsea player during the closing stages of the previous summer transfer window, but ultimately decided to delay any approach until January.
With INEOS now firmly focused on strengthening the squad’s midfield depth, Gallagher’s name has once again become one of the main talking points within the club’s recruitment department.
Bailey, speaking to United in Focus, revealed that Gallagher is becoming “increasingly frustrated” at Atletico Madrid due to limited playing time under head coach Diego Simeone.
While the midfielder has adapted well to the Spanish lifestyle and enjoys his surroundings in Madrid, he is fully aware that his hopes of making the England squad for the upcoming World Cup rely heavily on playing consistent football. That is something he has not been able to secure at Atletico.
Moreover, Gallagher is reportedly aware of the strong interest from Manchester United and considers the club a highly appealing destination.
Although other Premier League teams and clubs from abroad are monitoring his situation, United will need to act decisively as the January window draws near.
Despite showing signs of improvement in recent performances, the club still feels the need to add more depth particularly in the defensive midfield role.
Gallagher, with his high energy levels, pressing ability, and versatility, is viewed as a suitable candidate for that position.
Since joining Atletico Madrid from Chelsea in the summer of 2024, Gallagher has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter. He has made only four starts across all competitions and has scored once in the Champions League.
In La Liga—where Atletico are currently unbeaten in 11 games following an opening-day defeat to Espanyol—he has been included in the starting XI just twice.
On the international stage, Gallagher’s situation is equally uncertain. His most recent appearance for England came in June, when then-coach Thomas Tuchel selected him for a friendly match that ended in a 3–1 loss to Senegal.
He has since been omitted from Gareth Southgate’s last three squads, with his last competitive outing for the national team dating back to November of the previous year.
Although Gallagher remains under contract with Atletico until June 2029, his lack of game time is becoming a growing concern.
As a result, a temporary loan move in January now looks increasingly probable, giving the midfielder a chance to revive his season and keep his international ambitions alive.
