Manchester United are reportedly considering a loan move for Conor Gallagher in January, which could pave the way for out-of-favour Kobie Mainoo to leave Old Trafford. Ruben Amorim has set his sights on strengthening his midfield over the summer, leading to Brighton’s interest in Carlos Baleva.
However, United, who have spent more than £200m revamping their attacking line-up ahead of the 2025-26 season, have refrained from making any midfield reinforcements before the transfer window closes. It was later revealed that United had approached Atletico Madrid about a loan deal for the England international, but the Spanish giants were only interested in a permanent deal, resulting in the former Chelsea player remaining in La Liga.
Now, according to the Daily Mail, United will reconsider this in 2026.
They will once again make an initial loan offer, but this time they intend to make the move permanent for £45m in the summer. Gallagher is thought to be happy at Atletico but also wants to play regularly with a view to qualifying for the World Cup.
Gallagher has started just four games in all competitions this season, but given the current uncertainty in midfield with Mainu absent, United could offer him regular football.
If the ex-Chelsea midfielder’s swoop is successful, Mainu will likely fall further down the pecking order. The youngster was praised when he emerged from the academy under Erik ten Hag, but his status has declined since Amorim became manager.
United blocked a loan move for Maynou towards the end of the summer transfer window.
Mainu has not featured in a Premier League game since the beginning of this season, while Manuel Ugarte, who previously worked with Amorim at Sporting Lisbon, has also been missed. Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes formed the club’s central midfield partnership, despite genuine doubts surrounding both players.
Former United midfielder Scott McTominay is now a star player at Napoli and has reportedly appealed to his current club to agree a transfer for Maynou.
Amorim has been open about his desire to witness the development of the United academy product, who featured in the Euro 2024 final just 12 months ago.
He previously said: “I didn’t have a conversation with him before the window closed because I didn’t want it to seem like Koby Mainu was having a conversation with him just to keep him around. I did that this week. I have a lot of faith in him. He’s a top player. But some people think Koby Mainu I think he’s finished (as a complete player). I think he can be better. For some players (the talent) is good enough, but for him it’s not fair, but I think it’s helping Coby and that’s it.
