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Man Utd now chasing Conor Gallagher as INEOS’ position in race becomes clear
Manchester United are now reportedly in pole position in the race to sign an England international this month.
Man Utd in pole position to sign England star
The Red Devils could be in for a busy month as they look to break into the top four and finally find some consistency under Ruben Amorim. INEOS already fixed their manager’s attack in the summer with an impressive overhaul and could now do the same to solve his midfield problems.
Having his say on the January transfer window, the Man United boss told reporters: “Sometimes I have one idea, Jason and the board have another idea. Every decision we make, we need to reach a common ground.
“That is really important because you don’t need to make everything for the manager because the manager can change and [then] you need to change everything.
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It was an evening to forget for the Red Devils.
“But you also need to understand the manager understands the way of playing. If you don’t reach common ground the player would not come, so we just try to do that.”
On the transfer front, recent reports have suggested that Man United’s focus will be on their midfield this month, but it remains to be seen just who will arrive.
The likes of Ruben Neves have reportedly emerged as serious options as he looks to leave Al-Hilal in the winter window. With a return to the Premier League on the cards, United have reportedly contacted the Portugal international’s agent.
He’s not the only name on their shortlist, though. According to TeamTalk, Man United are now leading the race to sign Conor Gallagher, who is also looking to return to the Premier League this month.
Gallagher could replace Manuel Ugarte
It could be a case of one in, one out at Old Trafford. Recent reports have claimed that Galatasaray are prioritising a move to sign Manuel Ugarte from Man United this month, which would hand the Red Devils the perfect chance to welcome Gallagher.
Whilst not a like-for-like replacement, the England international would instantly offer far more energy at the heart of Amorim’s side as well as key versatility.
|
League stats 25/26 |
Gallagher |
Ugarte |
|---|---|---|
|
Minutes |
634 |
554 |
|
Progressive Carries P90 |
2.71 |
0.97 |
|
Progressive Passes P90 |
3.43 |
5.16 |
|
Goals |
2 |
0 |
Unlike other targets, Gallagher is unlikely to cost United a hefty fee, either. Atletico Madrid have reportedly priced their midfielder at just €30m (£26m) in the new year in what is more than affordable for INEOS.
What could be a problem is Gallagher’s wage demands. In Spain, the former Chelsea man earns around £151,000-a-week, which would put him among Man United’s top 10 earners.
The Red Devils must decide whether they simply value Gallagher that highly in the January transfer window or whether they wait for the summer to land the likes of Adam Wharton or Elliot Anderson.
