MU speeds up Conor Gallagher deal in January
Fabrizio Romano confirmed that MU is closely monitoring Conor Gallagher and prioritizing a low-cost option in the winter transfer window; the deal will only progress if Atletico Madrid agrees to loan him.
Manchester United are accelerating their plans to add to their midfield in January. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano on his official YouTube channel, Conor Gallagher has emerged as the most likely target for a short-term option, provided Atletico Madrid accept a mid-season loan.
January plan: prioritize short-term solutions, eliminate expensive deals
Romano denied rumors that MU is pursuing Lucas Paquetá (West Ham) and ruled out the possibility of spending big on expensive targets like Carlos Baleba or Angelo Stiller in the winter. According to him, expensive deals can only be activated in the summer, and in January MU will look for low-cost, short-term solutions to fill the personnel gap in the midfield.
Why Conor Gallagher: his playing background and personal motivation
According to Romano, Gallagher has made 13 appearances since the start of the season but has mostly started from the bench, no longer a regular choice under coach Diego Simeone. MU tried to recruit him at the end of August but failed. This player who grew up at Chelsea was once described by coach Mauricio Pochettino as "priceless" and still has the goal of winning a place in the World Cup with coach Thomas Tuchel's England team. If his playing time does not improve, his stance may become tougher in the next transfer window.
Tactical fit: fills the gap at number 6, rotates to number 8 role
The 25-year-old midfielder is known for his physical foundation, pressing intensity and ability to cover many positions in midfield. At this point, coach Ruben Amorim needs a replacement for Casemiro's No. 6 role, especially when Manuel Ugarte has not met expectations. Gallagher can also play No. 8 when it is necessary to rotate Bruno Fernandes, at the same time paving the way for Kobbie Mainoo to leave on loan in January to gain playing experience.
The key hurdle: Atletico Madrid's decision
The focus of the deal lies in Atletico Madrid's attitude. If coach Diego Simeone gives the green light for a mid-season loan, MU is ready to act. On the contrary, the Old Trafford team will continue to review the market for other short-term solutions, in line with the low-cost criteria mentioned by Romano.
Selected statistics about Conor Gallagher
Romano said Gallagher has made 13 appearances this season, mostly as a substitute. Here are his career stats, according to the source:
| Club | Number of appearances | Goal | Construction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chelsea | 95 | 10 | 10 |
| Atletico Madrid | 63 | 5 | 6 |
| Crystal Palace | 39 | 8 | 5 |
| West Brom | 32 | 2 | 2 |
Potential impact if MU completes the deal
A winter loan deal would help MU increase the intensity of pressing and the ability to cover the midfield, while allowing the coaching staff to optimize the role of the pillars in key matches. In the context of the summer target requiring large resources, the Gallagher option creates a safe bridge in terms of expertise and finance for the remaining period of the season.
Related articles
Manchester City's Erling Haaland could inadvertently help Manchester United complete a record €200 million deal, according to Spanish sources.
