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Conor Gallagher’s thoughts on Man Utd late interest made public by Spanish outlet

Originally posted on HITC | By Sean Fisher | Last updated Sep 9, 2025 5:04 PM ET

Conor Gallagher was among the names considered as Manchester United searched for a midfielder late in the summer transfer window.

Ruben Amorim had been clear about his priorities throughout the window, telling Ineos he wanted a more physical option added to his squad.

Manchester United were prepared to make an offer for Carlos Baleba, but Brighton’s £115m asking price put them off, with plans to revisit that move in 2026 instead.

With that deal off the table, United started looking elsewhere and, nearing the deadline day, made contact with Atletico Madrid about Gallagher.

However, their only signing on deadline day was Senne Lammens from Club Brugge for £18m, while Gallagher remained with Diego Simeone’s side.

How Conor Gallagher feels about possible Premier League return

Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images

Graeme Bailey spoke to United in Focus on deadline day and suggested that the Red Devils could revisit their interest for Gallagher during the winter transfer window.

“I can confirm that United were one of the teams to have asked about Conor Gallagher in recent days – he would be an interesting option – that didn’t happen but let’s keep an eye on that for January.”

According to AS, Gallagher was “tempted” by a summer return to the Premier League. However, he intends to remain at Atletico and succeed there.

The British midfielder appears content with life in Madrid for now. Simeone has also been working closely with him during the international break, conducting individual training sessions to get him ready for what lies ahead.

The Spanish outlet also adds that Gallagher’s market value stands at £35 million, and his contract with Atletico runs until 2027.

Ineos made the right call on Conor Gallagher

Manchester United’s midfield needs are clear, and Ruben Amorim will need to address them ahead of the 2026 window. But any new addition should be a direct upgrade, not just another short-term fix.

Gallagher would have brought experience and a strong work ethic, but he does not quite match the style that Amorim is after. He was also being looked at as a potential backup option to Bruno Fernandes rather than someone who could step straight into the starting XI.

Instead, United should go all in for Carlos Baleba in 2026. He fits exactly what Amorim wants and would provide a real boost to the squad.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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