Manchester United’s Loan Approach for Conor Gallagher Rejected by Atlético Madrid

Manchester United tried to sign midfielder Conor Gallagher on loan from Atlético Madrid. However, the Spanish club declined to let the England international leave on a temporary agreement.

WHAT HAPPENED?

In the final days of the transfer window, Manchester United formally asked Atlético Madrid about taking Conor Gallagher on loan. United wanted to sign him as they missed out on other targets, but the Spanish club did not want the midfielder to leave unless they received a permanent deal. Crystal Palace also requested to sign Gallagher on loan, but this request was also rejected. Atlético Madrid signed Gallagher from Chelsea for £34 million in August 2024, and they rely on his experience to strengthen their midfield. With no replacements lined up, they were not interested in any loan offers at this stage.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Manchester United are currently ninth in the Premier League standings after starting the season with mixed results, and they have had a disappointing few weeks domestically only winning their most recent match against Burnley. Amorim has not rotated his team much over the last couple of weeks and there is a lack of fresh legs in the squad.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR UNITED AND GALLAGHER?

Manchester United take on Manchester City in their next Premier League match. They are five points behind Liverpool at the top of the table, and one point ahead of their next opponents, Manchester City. If United continue to drop points, they will fall out of the title race altogether. Meanwhile, Gallagher is expected to continue in his role as a key player for the Spanish outfit, who have to focus on beating Real Madrid to domestic glory.