Man United could plot surprise January loan move for ex-Chelsea star with 20 goals, 22 assists
What a signing this could be for Ruben Amorim...
Manchester United could make a stunning move to bring in a former Chelsea star on loan in the January transfer window.
That is according to reputable journalist Ben Jacobs, who claims that the Red Devils are looking to bolster their midfielder in 2026, and while many of their main targets would not be available mid-season, Man United could make a smart move to bring in one of their old targets in January.
Manchester United wanted to sign former Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher in the summer but the deal did not materialise as Atletico Madrid were not willing to loan him.
Gallagher is Man United’s ‘most viable’ mid-season target
Jacobs says a move for Gallagher would be the most viable one for Man United, who could return in January to see if the Spanish club have softened their position regarding a loan move.
If a loan with an option to buy deal is available, Man United will see it as ‘good value’, with a potential permanent deal costing in the region of 50-55m euros.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Jacobs said:
“The most viable target for January remains Connor Gallagher, simply because the player is looking to with the World Cup in mind get more minutes.
“Atletico Madrid when Manchester United made an approach last summer didn’t want to do a loan. We’ll have to wait and see whether they’ve softened that position.
“If they’re prepared to entertain a loan with a buy option. I think Manchester United will see that as good value. For a permanent exit, it may be around 50 even 55 million euros and I’m not so sure that Manchester United will necessarily commit that financial outlay knowing that it’s taking budget away from the summer.
“And if Casemiro is doing well and Bruno Fernandes is acclimatizing and getting happier playing deeper and Kobbie Mainoo is forcing his way into the side and Manuel Ugarte stays fit and remains appreciated by Ruben Amorim maybe Manchester United feel that they’ll be good enough to get over the line for European football and then all that budget goes towards the summer.
“But I think Gallagher is the most feasible as far as January is concerned.”
The move would provide manager Ruben Amorim with an energetic and proven Premier League midfielder to support players like Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and the emerging Kobbie Mainoo, all while keeping the door open for their major long-term targets in the summer.
Gallagher adds energy and versatility to United’s midfield
Gallagher is an energetic box to box midfielder who developed and matured in the Premier League before securing a move to Spain.
He has consistently demonstrated an impressive attacking output from midfield throughout his career, often exceeding expectations for a central player.
His most prolific season came during his loan spell at Crystal Palace (2021-2022), where he netted 8 goals in 34 Premier League appearances.
He followed this with a strong return for Chelsea in the 2023-2024 season, scoring 5 goals in the Premier League and 2 in the FA Cup, totalling 7 goals.
His versatility is another asset, having played as a central midfielder, defensive midfielder, attacking midfielder, and wide roles on both flanks.
As a defensive midfielder: 15 goals and 6 assists in 60 games
As a central midfielder: 20 goals and 22 assists in 166 games
United would gain a midfielder capable of impacting both ends of the pitch, energetic, goal-scoring, and adaptable, exactly what Ruben Amorim needs to strengthen his squad ahead.