Conor Gallagher eyed for Premier League return as Aston Villa explore deal

Aston Villa are exploring the possibility of bringing Conor Gallagher back to the Premier League just 18 months after his departure from Chelsea, with Unai Emery keen to add midfield depth as his side compete on multiple fronts.

FootballPlace understands Villa are open to a loan deal with an obligation to buy for the Atlético Madrid midfielder, a structure that would allow flexibility while keeping long-term options open.

Aston Villa see Conor Gallagher as an attractive opportunity in the market, particularly given his Premier League experience and tactical versatility.

Gallagher is settled in Spain and has enjoyed life under Diego Simeone, but a return to England would appeal as he looks to re-establish himself in the international picture ahead of the World Cup.

The midfielder is understood to believe regular Premier League football would strengthen his chances of forcing his way back into Thomas Tuchel’s plans.

Unai Emery’s interest in Gallagher is long-standing. The Villa manager was keen on the midfielder during his time at Chelsea and continues to admire his energy, work rate and ability to operate across midfield roles.

Gallagher, who turns 26 next month, joined Atlético Madrid from Chelsea in the summer of 2024 and has since made 51 La Liga appearances. While he has been a regular squad option, his role has not always been central, prompting speculation about his next move.

Manchester United have also expressed interest in Gallagher, but their situation remains unclear following the exit of Ruben Amorim. With no permanent manager in place, Villa currently appear better positioned to act decisively.

Villa’s interest reflects their broader ambitions. Despite a heavy 4-1 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates, Emery’s side remain in the title conversation, sitting five points behind the league leaders.

The FA Cup also presents a significant opportunity. Villa reached the semi-finals last season before losing to eventual winners Crystal Palace, and Emery is keen to go one step further. In Europe, Villa are also among the favourites to lift the Europa League.

Gallagher’s experience and adaptability would suit a squad expected to juggle domestic and European commitments.

Gallagher has 22 England caps and was an important figure during Euro 2024, but his involvement has declined sharply since Tuchel’s arrival. He has featured only once under the new manager, playing 59 minutes in a 3-1 defeat to Senegal.

Competition in midfield has intensified, with Elliot Anderson emerging as a major option, leaving Gallagher aware that minutes at club level will be crucial.

Despite the uncertainty, Gallagher has spoken warmly about his time in Spain. Speaking to the FA’s website in late 2024, he described his arrival at Atlético as seamless.

“It was amazing, a really good experience,” he said. “It was a really warm welcome, and it made me feel at home straight away.”

On Simeone, he added: “He wants everyone to work as hard as possible, to prepare for each game and then win. That’s perfect for me. He’s one of the best managers in the world and I’m looking forward to working with him for years to come.”

Whether those years remain in Madrid or shift back to the Premier League may depend on how serious Villa’s interest becomes in the coming weeks.

With the January window open and Villa competing on multiple fronts, discussions could accelerate quickly if Atlético are open to negotiations. For Gallagher, the decision may come down to balancing comfort in Spain with the opportunity to reassert himself in England’s top flight.

Would Conor Gallagher be the right midfield addition to push Aston Villa to the next level this season?