Manchester United have been hit with a big problem at a very bad time of the season. For once, their most reliable player has let them down through injury.
Bruno Fernandes has been one of the few players fans could always count on. He rarely misses matches and often plays through pain.
That is why his latest injury has shocked many supporters and left the club with a serious issue to solve.
The midfielder was forced off during the recent defeat away to Aston Villa, and early signs suggest he will not return before the New Year.
This leaves Ruben Amorim with limited options in the middle of the pitch during a very busy period.
United have already struggled for consistency this season. Now, losing their captain has made things even harder.
With January approaching fast, the club may now need to change its transfer plans.
January transfer focus may shift after Fernandes’ injury
Before Fernandes picked up his knock, United were already looking at attacking options for the January window.
One name that had been strongly linked was Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo.
The winger has impressed in the Premier League with his pace, strength, and direct style.
United scouts have watched him closely, and many fans liked the idea of adding him to the squad.
However, reports now suggest Semenyo prefers a move elsewhere, with talks believed to be moving forward with Manchester City.
That development has cooled United’s interest and opened the door for a rethink.
More importantly, Fernandes’ injury has highlighted a bigger issue. United does not have enough control or energy in midfield when he is missing.
Amorim has also been reluctant to start Kobbie Mainoo in big games, which further limits the manager’s choices.
As a result, attention is now turning away from attackers and towards central midfield.
Conor Gallagher emerges as a serious midfield option
According to reports, United are now looking closely at Conor Gallagher as a possible January signing.
The midfielder is currently playing for Atletico Madrid and is said to be on INEOS’s shortlist.
Gallagher is well known to United fans from his time in the Premier League.
He came through at Chelsea and gained plenty of top-flight experience before moving to Spain.
At 25 years old, he is entering his prime years and offers something United have lacked this season, energy, aggression, and constant movement.
While he is not a flashy player, he does the dirty work that helps teams function better.
Reports suggest a deal could be done either on loan or through a permanent move, with a fee of around £35 million, possibly enough to convince Atletico Madrid.
Why Gallagher fits Amorim’s system
Amorim wants his midfielders to work hard without the ball and stay disciplined in their shape. That is something Gallagher does very well.
He presses opponents, tracks runners, and rarely switches off. These qualities are vital, especially in matches where United struggle to keep possession or control the tempo.
Gallagher is also comfortable carrying the ball forward and linking play between defence and attack.
He may not have Fernandes’ vision or passing range, but he offers balance, something United badly needs.
Analysts have often described him as an “intensity monster”, and that label fits. He covers ground quickly and makes life difficult for opposition midfielders.
This type of player could allow others around him to play with more freedom, which is something United have missed all season.
Premier League experience is a big advantage
One major positive with Gallagher is his strong Premier League background.
He already understands the pace, physical battles, and pressure that come with English football.
During his final season at Chelsea under Mauricio Pochettino, Gallagher showed clear improvement in his attacking output while keeping his defensive work high.
He scored goals, created chances, and improved his passing accuracy.
These are signs of a midfielder who is learning how to affect games at both ends of the pitch.
Since moving to Spain, he has adapted well to a different style of football.
His tackling numbers, interceptions, and goal contributions have remained strong, showing that his game is not limited to one league.
That adaptability would be useful for United, who are still trying to find a clear identity under Amorim.
What this means for United’s season
Signing Gallagher would not solve all of United’s problems. However, it could bring stability to a midfield that has often looked soft and unbalanced.
With Fernandes out, United need someone who can keep things ticking and protect the defence. Gallagher offers exactly that.
Other players like Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo are expected to return later in the season, which could ease the pressure in wide areas.
That makes a central midfielder even more important right now.
If United wants to avoid another poor second half of the season, January business will be key.
Bringing in a player who understands English football and works hard every minute could make a real difference.
For Amorim, this may be a defining decision. Get the midfield right, and the system may finally start to click.
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