Man Utd leading race to sign £45m La Liga midfielder

Manchester United are leading the race to sign Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher during the winter transfer window, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.

The Mancunian giants were determined to land a new central midfielder before the deadline and Gallagher emerged as a possible loan option.

However, Atletico made it clear that they would not accept such a proposal. They were reluctant to sanction his departure for less than £45 million.

United are likely to return for the England international at the turn of the year and reports claim that they could negotiate a cash deal for the midfielder.

Tottenham Hotspur are also long-term admirers of the 25-year-old, and they could provide competition to the Red Devils in the player's pursuit.

Spurs were keen on landing Gallagher from Chelsea last year, but the Blues preferred to negotiate his transfer abroad with Diego Simeone's side.

Gallagher is said to be open to a Premier League return. He has fallen out of favour at Atletico with only 85 minutes from three games this term.