Gallagher had been linked with a move away from Madrid on numerous occasions this summer. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Romano: ‘In the last 48 hours…’ – United made surprise loan approach for midfielder with 136 Premier League appearances

Originally posted on Stretty News | By Isabel Ryan | Last updated Sep 3, 2025 6:19 AM ET

Manchester United made a late approach to sign Conor Gallagher on loan from Atletico Madrid in the final two days of the summer window.

Indeed, the Red Devils tried their luck by contacting Atletico Madrid to gauge the feasibility of taking the former Chelsea star on a temporary deal for the season, but ultimately saw their attempts rebuffed.

Atletico were uninterested in sanctioning Gallagher’s exit unless it was a permanent sale, which United couldn’t afford after already facilitating deals for Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and, on deadline day, Senne Lammens.

Conor Gallagher boasts a wealth of top-flight experience

Gallagher has spent the last year plying his trade in La Liga following a £34 million move from Chelsea in August 2024.

It was thought at the time that the Blues board were open to his departure due to the fact that it would generate pure profit, given that he’s an academy graduate.

He racked up 136 Premier League appearances throughout his senior tenure at Stamford Bridge, with his experience making him an ideal candidate for United to pursue after opting against a mega-money move for Carlos Baleba.

United fail with late Gallagher move

Gallagher will continue in Spain for the foreseeable future. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

“In the last 48 hours of the summer transfer window, Manchester United tried to sign Connor Gallagher. Man United considered that possibility – to go for Conor Gallagher,” said Fabrizio Romano on YouTube.

“Then, it was not possible to make it happen because Man United wanted to sign Gallagher on a loan deal, while Atletico Madrid already rejected an approach from Crystal Palace 10 days ago for Gallagher on loan.”

It remains to be seen whether United will revive their interest in the 25-year-old when the January window opens.

This article first appeared on Stretty News and was syndicated with permission.

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