Manchester United are emerging as front-runners in the Premier League battle to sign Conor Gallagher, with Tottenham Hotspur also firmly in the race.
Both clubs are eager to reinforce their central midfield options during the January transfer window and have identified the Atletico Madrid midfielder as a key target.
Gallagher joined the Spanish side in the summer of 2024 and made a strong impression in his debut season at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
However, opportunities have been more limited this campaign, with the England international struggling for consistent starts under Diego Simeone.
As a result, a return to the Premier League is now a realistic possibility, with United currently leading the chase for the former Chelsea and Crystal Palace midfielder.
Tottenham remain close contenders, and both clubs are pushing to secure the 25-year-old’s signature before the February 2 deadline.
Reports suggest United value Gallagher’s versatility, energy and leadership, believing he would be a valuable addition to an injury-hit midfield.
Club captain Bruno Fernandes is currently sidelined, while Kobbie Mainoo’s long-term future remains uncertain.
United would prefer a loan move until the end of the season, but Atletico Madrid are holding out for a permanent transfer as they look to recover much of the £35 million spent to sign Gallagher from Chelsea 18 months ago.
Atletico and the player held discussions over the Christmas period, with the club indicating a willingness to sell this month if an acceptable offer is received. Newcastle United, Everton and West Ham have also shown interest, though they currently trail United and Spurs in the pursuit.
Both United and Tottenham have already encountered setbacks elsewhere in the market after failing to land Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo, who opted to join Manchester City instead.
Gallagher is understood to be open to a move to either Old Trafford or north London as he looks to relaunch his Premier League career.
Regular playing time is a priority for the midfielder as he aims to force his way back into Thomas Tuchel’s England plans ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America.