Man Utd Crack the Code: Secret Transfer Formula Revealed for January Midfield Swoop
Manchester United's pursuit of midfield reinforcement has generated multiple potential targets, with Atlético Madrid's Conor Gallagher now appearing as the most attainable option in the immediate future.
United showed interest in Gallagher during the closing stages of the summer transfer period, but dedicated their final efforts before the English window closed to securing goalkeeper Senne Lammens instead.
Reports indicated that a loan inquiry for Gallagher at that point wasn't sufficient to persuade Atlético to consider negotiations. However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed through his YouTube platform that proposing a permanent transfer next month might yield a different outcome.
The Madrid-based team had no plans to approve a temporary arrangement and maintains that stance, though they appear willing to consider a cash transaction. Gallagher's initial transfer to Madrid from his childhood club Chelsea in August 2024 required Atlético to pay approximately £34 million ($45.3 million), but Romano indicates that presenting a £26 million bid might convince Diego Simeone's squad to part ways with the player.
Gallagher's potential departure shouldn't be unexpected. The England midfielder, who featured 95 times for Chelsea across two first-team campaigns and frequently wore the captain's armband throughout 2024–25, has found it difficult to secure regular starting opportunities at Atlético. While 46 La Liga appearances from 53 possible matches appears noteworthy, he has entered as a substitute in over half (24) of those contests. This campaign has seen him make only three La Liga starts thus far.
Manchester United are anticipated to focus on next summer's transfer period rather than January, which is widely known for limited value opportunities. However, all teams at various levels are drawn to advantageous situations, and a potential Gallagher deal might be one that club officials believe meets their requirements.
Man Utd's Options to Recruit in Midfield
As an alternative, United could delay until summer and pursue any of the seven other central players most strongly connected with a potential move to Old Trafford.
Any acquisition of Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba or Adam Wharton would generate supporter enthusiasm, though Nottingham Forest, Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace, respectively, are believed to be demanding £100 million or higher for their prized assets.
Wolverhampton Wanderers pair João Gomes and André represent two additional names on a reported seven-player wishlist that features Gallagher, alongside Stuttgart prospect Angelo Stiller.
Another possibility who similarly fits the opportunistic profile is Atalanta's Éderson. The Brazilian midfielder, ideally suited for Premier League football, will shortly enter the final 18 months of his deal and vocal agent André Cury has publicly indicated he won't extend his stay in Bergamo. Cury, who maintains strong connections to Barcelona and has promoted a potential switch there, also recently declared that Atalanta will reduce Éderson's valuation to less than half its previous amount.