Man Utd now preparing winter raid for £35m star to bolster midfield - report

Manchester United could pursue a new midfielder when the transfer window reopens in January, according to Sunday Mirror (page 70).

The Red Devils were linked with multiple midfielders last summer, but they could not secure a suitable target before the transfer deadline.

Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba emerged as a priority option, but the Seagulls were adamant that the Cameroonian star was not for sale for the season.

United tried to sign Conor Gallagher on loan from Atletico Madrid, but were unsuccessful.

Sunday Mirror now claim that the Red Devils remain keen on Gallagher. He could be available as a loanee in January as he looks to win a place in England’s World Cup squad.

United could explore a loan deal for Gallagher again

The Red Devils are preparing for a huge spending spree on midfielders next summer. They are prioritising deals for Baleba and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson.

However, the club could also seek a short-term solution in January. A move for Gallagher could be on the cards if Diego Simeone’s side open the door for a loan exit.

Gallagher was a key player for the Spanish giants last term, but he has struggled to secure regular playing time this campaign, having managed just 550 minutes across 16 appearances.

As a result, the £35 million-rated star has been dropped from the England squad. Gallagher needs more minutes from the starting XI to boost his selection hopes ahead of the World Cup.

It won’t come as a surprise if United revive their pursuit. Gallagher can operate as a defensive, central or attacking midfielder and has the knack for making goal contributions.

His tireless work rate and high pressing are among his main strengths.

A loan deal in January would help United to assess whether Gallagher can adapt to Ruben Amorim’s playing style. If he does, a permanent deal could be pursued next summer.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .