Conor Gallagher: Aston Villa Join Race to Secure England Midfielder’s January Return

Premier League Return on the Cards for Gallagher

Aston Villa are exploring the potential to sign Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid in what could be one of January’s most significant transfer moves. Unai Emery a long-term admirer, with the Villa boss keen to strengthen his squad as they compete for Champions League qualification and silverware on multiple fronts.

The 25-year-old England international has found himself on the periphery at Atletico Madrid this season. The 25-year-old has made 19 league appearances for Atletico this season, but just five of those have been from the outset, raising questions about his future in the Spanish capital. Atletico are reluctant to sanction a loan unless a permanent transfer is guaranteed, seeking a fee close to the £38 million they paid Chelsea in 2024.

World Cup Ambitions Drive Transfer Speculation

Gallagher’s desire for regular first-team football has taken on added urgency with the 2026 World Cup approaching. Diego Simeone has preferred other options in midfield, leading to Gallagher losing his place with the Three Lions, with Thomas Tuchel telling his players they must be starting regularly to secure their plane ticket to the World Cup this summer. A return to the Premier League could reignite his international career, having previously earned 22 England caps.

There is interest in an initial loan with an option to buy, though this structure faces complications. The proposed asking price for Gallagher would be around €30m, with Atletico preferring a permanent deal to free up salary space for new signings.

Competition Intensifies for Midfielder’s Signature

Villa aren’t alone in their pursuit. This has allowed the club’s domestic rivals, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace, to jump the queue for Gallagher, with both London teams making contact over a move this week. Manchester United’s interest has reportedly cooled following recent managerial uncertainty at Old Trafford.

For Aston Villa, Gallagher represents an opportunity to add proven Premier League quality to their midfield. The Lions sit third in the Premier League standings, with six points behind leaders Arsenal, making January reinforcements crucial. However, the deal’s structure and financial constraints could prove decisive in determining whether Gallagher returns to English football this month.