Manager Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on the transfer interest in Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher from Manchester United.
The Red Devils have a genuine interest in the former Chelsea midfielder, but it seems unclear whether he will leave Atletico yet.
According to Romano’s YouTube channel, Gallagher is one of a number of midfielders currently on the radar at Man United, and has been on the radar since August.
Gallagher is going through a complicated period in Spanish football and it could make sense for him to seek a return to the Premier League.
The England international is Chelsea’s top performer, with former Blues manager Mauricio Pochettino previously describing him as an “invaluable figure”, as quoted by BBC Sport.
Fabrizio Romano talks about Manchester United’s interest in Conor Gallagher
Regarding the latest updates on United’s signing of Gallagher, Romano said: “Manchester United have said many times that they would like to add a midfielder, but it may be difficult to sign a very expensive midfielder in the January transfer window at the moment. A player like Ross) Baleva probably won’t even be available, as well as Angelo Stiller, who might have a chance after that, and Conor Gallagher from Atletico was the name Manchester United considered in the final days of the summer transfer window. Madrid.
“Conor Gallagher remains an option in case Atletico Madrid decide to open the door to a loan move. At the moment, Gallagher is solely focused on Atletico Madrid. Manchester United’s interest has been genuine since August. However, Gallagher is one of the options they have in case there is a potential loan opportunity and if it becomes a typical general contract.”
“So we’re going to keep an eye on the situation. But the Gallagher name is something we have to keep out there.”
Who else is on the Manchester United midfielder’s transfer target list?
As reported in today’s Daily Briefing, one of United’s top targets is Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliott Anderson.
Still, it makes sense for MUFC to keep a player like Gallagher in mind, as the situation at Atletico could make him more available.
By contrast, Anderson’s transfer fee could be up to £70m, with Forest bosses reluctant to part with the talented 22-year-old.