Manchester United desperately searched for an upgrade in midfield during the summer transfer window, but in the end, nobody walked through the Carrington doors.
Carlos Baleba was the top target, with Ruben Amorim demanding the Cameroonian’s signature. However, Brighton and Hove Albion’s valuation was well beyond the Red Devils’ reach and as a result, they abandoned their chase.
They were also linked with moves for Morten Hjulmand, and Adam Wharton, but nothing materialised in the end. That meant INEOS were left scrambling for cover on deadline day.
In their desperation, they touched base with Conor Gallagher and offered a loan deal, but Atletico Madrid shot down the proposal as they were only open to a permanent exit.
Gallagher deal in January
The 20-time English league champions are reportedly open to pursuing the ex-Chelsea ace again in January, and now, Teamtalk have revealed that the Englishman is “keen” to return to the Premier League.
His energy, tenaciousness, and versatility are seen as great qualities that Ruben Amorim can utilise amid Manuel Ugarte’s struggles and Casemiro’s ageing legs.
There is also interest from Tottenham Hotspur, but for now, there is no clarity whether they will return to the negotiating table with Thomas Frank in charge.
“If it becomes clear that Atletico are ready to let him leave then a return to the Premier League will definitely be on the cards as he was always keen to consider other moves when leaving Chelsea.
January exit on the cards
“I always got the impression he was hoping to stay in London so it would be interesting if a chance like that comes along again.
“I haven’t heard much on Spurs being interested again but obviously they are looking for a player in the middle of the park – as are Man United.”
Chances of the England international leaving is high as he is primarily being utilised off the bench rather than a starter and with next year’s World Cup coming up, he might look to jump ship to catch Thomas Tuchel’s eye.
United are also interested in Baleba, Wharton and Elliot Anderson, and there are murmurs that they could jump for either in the winter.
It will be interesting to see which midfielder is ultimately signed by INEOS.
Feature image George Wood via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
