Unai Emery speaking at a press conference (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)
Aston Villa are reportedly considering a loan move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher, who is rumored to be a target for Manchester United.
The former Chelsea player is open to a return to the Premier League as he has struggled to get enough minutes for Diego Simeone’s side this season.
According to a report from talkSPORT, Villa are considering taking Gallagher on an initial loan deal, with the possibility of making him a permanent move later on.
According to TEAMtalk, Man United are also interested in signing Gallagher on loan, with Fabrizio Romano also mentioning that the Red Devils are keeping an eye on Gallagher.
Conor Gallagher likely to return to Premier League
The latest news from talkSPORT is that Gallagher is not necessarily in a hurry to leave Spain, but could welcome the possibility of returning to England to boost their World Cup hopes.
Gallagher is likely to be an outsider in Thomas Tuchel’s side heading into the 2026 World Cup, but could sneak in late in the game if he earns more regular minutes.
Villa could be a great move for him as Unai Emery’s side are currently in good form and could even qualify for the Champions League.
If Gallagher joins and becomes a mainstay at Villa Park, it would certainly sway Tuchel and give him the chance to increase his England caps to 22.
Could Manchester United make a move for Gallagher?
It will be interesting to see if United end up giving Villa competition to sign Gallagher this month.
The Red Devils could improve their midfield, with Gallagher likely to be an upgrade over the aging Casemiro and the unconvincing Manuel Ugarte.
Still, the 25-year-old may be better off avoiding MUFC for the time being as they are in a bit of turmoil at the moment, with the club considering another managerial change.
Even if United have the bigger, more appealing name, Villa seem far more consistent and the environment in which Gallagher could thrive.
