Conor Gallagher is reportedly considering a January loan move away from Atletico Madrid, with Manchester United emerging as one of the most serious contenders for his signature. Journalist Graeme Bailey claims the midfielder has grown frustrated with the lack of regular minutes under Diego Simeone, and this dissatisfaction has opened the door for a possible switch to Old Trafford.
Manchester United plan to reinforce their midfield options in 2025 and have Gallagher listed among their preferred targets, alongside Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and England prospect Elliot Anderson. Their chances of landing the former Chelsea man appear to be improving, as he is now said to be more receptive to a mid-season transfer than he was earlier in the year.
United explored the possibility of signing Gallagher toward the end of the summer window but ultimately decided to wait until January. With INEOS placing a stronger emphasis on reshaping the squad’s midfield, Gallagher’s name has moved back to the forefront of their recruitment plans.
Speaking to United in Focus, Bailey explained that Gallagher has become “increasingly frustrated” at Atletico due to limited playing opportunities. Despite settling into life in Madrid and adapting well off the pitch, the 25-year-old is aware that his hopes of making England’s World Cup squad depend heavily on playing consistently — something he is not currently getting in Spain. He is also said to be fully aware of United’s interest, and views the club as an appealing destination where he could earn more minutes and regain form.
Although several clubs are keeping an eye on the situation, Manchester United may need to act decisively as the January window approaches. The club recognises that, despite their recent improvement in performances, more depth is needed in defensive midfield. Gallagher is seen as a player who can add energy, intensity, and competition in that area.
Since arriving at Atletico from Chelsea in the summer of 2024, Gallagher has made only four starts across all competitions, scoring once in the Champions League. In La Liga — where Atletico are unbeaten in 11 matches following their opening-day defeat to Espanyol — he has been named in the starting lineup only twice.
His last appearance for England came in June under Thomas Tuchel in a 3–1 friendly loss to Senegal. Gallagher has missed the last three England squads, and his most recent competitive match for the Three Lions dates back to November of the previous year. Though contracted to Atletico until June 2029, a January loan now appears the most realistic path for more consistent game time.
