Man Utd's Shocking Last-Minute Bid for Ex-Chelsea Star Crashes and Burns on Deadline Day

Manchester United were reportedly part of a group of Premier League teams that made inquiries about securing Atlético Madrid's midfielder Conor Gallagher, who ultimately remained in Spain.

Gallagher departed Chelsea through an unusual transfer that brought João Félix to Stamford Bridge during the previous summer window. The Portuguese attacker managed to land a remarkably profitable switch to Al Nassr a year later, and for a moment it appeared Gallagher might also seek new opportunities elsewhere.

United were believed to be pursuing a temporary deal for the tenacious midfielder, according to the Daily Mail. Gallagher was viewed as a potential substitute for Kobbie Mainoo, who was considering pushing for a loan departure after losing his place under Ruben Amorim.

Irrespective of Mainoo's situation, United had been connected with acquiring a new midfielder during this transfer window. Brighton & Hove Albion rejected an inquiry for Carlos Baleba before any serious negotiations could develop, while there were also discussions regarding Sporting CP's Morten Hjulmand and Crystal Palace playmaker Adam Wharton.

Last-minute contact from United on Transfer Deadline Day didn't come to fruition. Crystal Palace were among the earliest clubs this summer associated with pursuing Gallagher, who excelled for the Eagles during his loan period in the 2021–22 season. Everton were another potential destination mentioned.

Gallagher hasn't fully secured his place as a regular starter in Madrid under Diego Simeone's management. A midfielder dubbed "Pitbull" naturally possesses some characteristics valued by the Argentine coach, but he hasn't yet locked down a specific midfield position, rotating between defensive duties, box-to-box responsibilities and even wide left assignments.

The England representative began Atlético's season-opening La Liga fixture, occupying the deep midfield role left vacant by Rodrigo De Paul's transfer to Inter Miami, but was substituted at the interval. Gallagher has received limited substitute opportunities in Atlético's following two fixtures leading up to the frantic final hours of Deadline Day.