Conor Gallagher ‘Open to Joining’ Man Utd on Loan in January

Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher is open to joining Manchester United on loan in January after struggling for regular minutes in the Spanish capital, journalist Graeme Bailey has claimed.

The England international is believed to be among several players United are considering adding to their midfield in 2025 along with Brighton star Carlos Baleba and fellow England ace Elliot Anderson.

United’s chances of landing Gallagher in January have reportedly been given a boost lately, with the 25-year-old opening the door to his Atletico departure mid-season.

The Red Devils were interested in Gallagher in the final days of the summer window but accepted to wait until the new year to address their midfield, with a new signing now seen as ‘top priority’ for INEOS.

Conor Gallagher Open to Old Trafford Move

Conor Gallagher

Bailey, speaking to United in Focus, revealed that Gallagher has become ‘increasingly frustrated’ at Atletico due to his limited playing time.

The 25-year-old would reportedly seriously consider a departure from the Spanish club to boost his chances of making England’s World Cup squad, with Man United earmarked as an appealing option for the midfielder:

“Gallagher has become increasingly frustrated at Atletico. He is settled in the Spanish capital but he firmly believes he could and should be in contention for England. That is not going to happen without playing.

“Gallagher is aware of the interest and I’m told that United is an appealing option to him.

“United are aware that other clubs are showing an interest, and they will have a decision to make in the coming weeks ahead of the January window.

“Despite being pleased with their form in recent weeks, belief within the club is that additional holding midfield options are required and Gallagher could very well offer that.”

Gallagher, who joined Atletico from Chelsea in the summer of 2024, has made just four starts for the Spanish capital side this term, scoring once in the Champions League.

The ‘incredible’ 25-year-old started only twice in La Liga where Atletico are unbeaten in their last 11 games, losing only once on the opening matchday to Espanyol.

Gallagher, who is under contract until June 2029 at Wanda Metropolitano, last featured for England in June when he was handed a start by Thomas Tuchel in a 3-1 friendly loss to Senegal.

The midfielder has missed out on a call-up to the last three England squads, with his last competitive appearance taking place in November last year.