Exclusive: Liverpool Join Man Utd in Race to Bring Conor Gallagher Back to England

Liverpool will attempt to rival Manchester United’s bid to lure Conor Gallagher back to the Premier League, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

Ruben Amorim is desperate to capture the Atletico Madrid star after growing increasingly concerned about the lack of industry and drive within United’s midfield.

But Arne Slot’s employers are also tracking Gallagher’s progress at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano as they also look to inject extra energy into the Dutchman’s faltering squad.

Previously of Chelsea, Gallagher moved to Spain last year having been sacrificed by The Blues to help them meet Profit and Sustainability obligations. 

Although he is happy with Diego Simeone’s side, after seeing his all-action style make him a favourite among the 11 time La Liga champions, United believe they could persuade him to consider a return to England by tabling a big money offer next summer.

Whether or not he makes Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the upcoming World Cup in North America and Mexico is likely to have a major bearing on the 22-cap international’s thinking over the coming months.

Liverpool also remain determined to land Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi in January, confident that a £40m bid could prise the England starter away given he has less than six months left on his contract.

CONTRACT DILEMMA

Atletico paid nearly £34m to acquire his services, taking advantage of both his contract situation at Stamford Bridge and The Blues’ desire to sell. 

Gallagher’s value has increased significantly since then, meaning Amorim and Slot are the only top-flight managers with the financial resources at their disposal to challenge for the 25-year-old’s signature after Newcastle also initially asked to be kept informed if Simeone decided to cash-in.

Although they returned to winning ways with a victory over Crystal Palace, United’s need for a player of Gallagher’s calibre was exposed when they were beaten by 10-man Everton before facing The Eagles.

Liverpool have also struggled this term but, like their North-West rivals, remain one of the destinations of choice for big-name talents.

Gallagher enjoyed spells on loan with the likes of Swansea City and Palace before establishing himself in west London, scoring 10 goals in 95 senior appearances.