Aston Villa are exploring a move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher. Unai Emery would like an energetic midfielder who can play the number eight role and is a fan of Gallagher from his time at Chelsea. Villa held talks to sign Gallagher from Stamford Bridge before a deal was agreed with Atletico. Emery knows fresh legs can give his side that extra momentum heading into the second half of the season. The likelihood is they would offer a loan with obligation for Gallagher but Atletico have not been keen on that format so far.

Source: Daily Mail January 10, 2026 00:00 UTC