Manchester United appear to be targeting Conor Gallagher as their ideal replacement for central midfielder Casemiro.
While the club was linked with Gallagher in the summer transfer window, The Peoples Person relayed that Man United rejected the opportunity to sign him as they felt that there were already enough versatile options at their disposal this season.
Although United may have believed that there was no need to approach the Atletico Madrid midfielder during the summer, the club may need to reverse this belief given Casemiro’s potential departure.
New midfielder needed
It was reported that United star Casemiro faces an uncertain future beyond the current season, particularly as he receives interest in the Middle East.
While it is believed that United want to hold onto him for the time being, the 32 year old could be running out of time at the summit of European football, given his age.
Adding further complication to the issue is the belief that United would not want to part ways with the Brazilian until a replacement has been identified, meaning that the need for a player like Gallagher could be on the rise.
Given Gallagher’s reported interest in returning to the Premier League should Atletico decide to offload him, it seems that a move to United is already being teed up.
A transfer is in the works
Previously, it was reported that Atletico could be open to parting with Gallagher as soon as January.
Now, it seems that one such move could indeed happen.
The Express reported that United are indeed plotting a move for Gallagher.
“Baleba of Brighton has been on the Red Devils’ radar over the past year, but a hefty price tag of approximately £110million has deterred them,” the report claimed. “The United hierarchy are now exploring alternative options, viewing Gallagher as an ideal successor for Casemiro, who is anticipated to depart Old Trafford next summer.”
“After making 50 appearances in his first season with the Spanish giants, he has only started two matches this season. Atletico manager Diego Simeone remains unconvinced about Gallagher’s value to his squad and may be open to selling him,” the article continued.
“It is believed that Atletico’s president, Enrique Cerezo, values Gallagher at around £50m. If made available, the 25-year-old would draw attention from several English clubs, including United.”
While a £50m price tag is certainly not cheap, United would surely need to start exploring their options given their ongoing midfield struggles, particularly as they prepare for a future which could exclude the likes of Casemiro.
Feature image George Wood via Getty Images
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
Mathew Cohen
A faithful Manchester United supporter, Mathew has worked as a football writer and analyst for SB Nation, FanSided, and now The Peoples Person. Mathew’s heroes include David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Alex Ferguson, all of whom played their part in creating some special childhood memories.
