Aston Villa are actively exploring a January move to sign midfielder Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid, as manager Unai Emery seeks to inject energy into his squad for a second-half push.
Emery's Midfield Search Intensifies
Unai Emery has identified the need for a dynamic, box-to-box midfielder capable of playing the number eight role, and is a known admirer of Gallagher from the player's time in the Premier League with Chelsea. The potential move comes as the loan signing of Liverpool's Harvey Elliott is considered not to have worked out, with Villa reportedly unwilling to grant him the starts required to trigger a permanent buy option.
Villa previously held talks to sign Gallagher directly from Chelsea before he ultimately joined Atletico Madrid. The 25-year-old England international has featured 27 times for the Spanish side this season and started in their Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Real Madrid last Thursday.
Financial and Negotiating Hurdles
The deal faces significant financial constraints, with Villa needing to navigate the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules. However, it is understood that Atletico Madrid would consider offers in the region of £35 million for the midfielder.
While Gallagher has a good relationship with Atletico coach Diego Simeone and is settled in Spain, he is believed to be interested in the project Villa could offer. A return to the Premier League and the prospect of more regular starting minutes could also help his chances of remaining in England manager Thomas Tuchel's plans for the upcoming World Cup in the USA.
The likely structure of any deal would be a loan with an obligation to buy, but Atletico have previously been reluctant to accept such terms, having dismissed a similar proposal from Manchester United last summer. There is also a sense that Gallagher himself would favour a permanent transfer.
Villa's Broader January Plans
Emery is seeking reinforcements in multiple areas, with a forward and defensive cover also on the wish list to bolster Villa's challenge for a Champions League qualification spot or even an outside title bid. The club has already completed the signing of Alysson from Gremio and is adding teenager Brian Madjo from Metz for the future.
Regarding Harvey Elliott, his loan may be terminated early, albeit with a penalty fee to be paid, with MLS side Charlotte FC monitoring the situation. In attack, Villa admire Newcastle striker William Osula, though he would also command a substantial fee.
Emery is convinced that fresh additions can provide the vital momentum needed for the demanding second half of the campaign as Aston Villa aim to solidify their position among the Premier League's elite.
