'I'm told...' - Mick Brown says Unai Emery is 'big fan' of player who now wants to join Aston Villa

This Is What I've Been Told About Unai Emery Signing Conor Gallagher – Ex-Aston Villa Employee

Aston Villa are accelerating plans to sign Conor Gallagher from Atlético Madrid, with manager Unai Emery identified as a big fan of the energetic midfielder, according to insights from a former Villa employee, Mick Brown.

Gallagher, 25, has struggled for consistent minutes in his second season at Atlético, featuring in 19 La Liga appearances but starting just five. Despite this, he retains a strong rapport with coach Diego Simeone and started in the Supercopa semi-final loss to Real Madrid. Villa see him as the ideal addition to bolster their shock title-contending squad in January, targeting an energetic midfielder to enhance their Premier League and European campaigns.[1]

The proposed deal is a loan for the second half of the season with an obligation to buy, valued around £25m-£35m in the summer. Atlético rejected a similar Manchester United bid last summer but are now open to offers. Villa lead the race, ahead of interest from Manchester United and Tottenham, with reports indicating Gallagher is closing in on a return to England under Emery.[2][3]

This move ties into Villa's midfield reshuffle. Harvey Elliott, on loan from Liverpool since September with an obligation to buy clause, will not have his deal made permanent. Emery confirmed discussions are ongoing, noting Elliott's limbo due to FIFA rules—he's already played for two clubs this season and cannot feature for a third. "We are speaking with him... Hopefully we can get the best for him and the best for us," Emery said ahead of a Europa League tie.[1]

Mick Brown, ex-Villa staffer, revealed Emery's long-standing admiration for Gallagher, who now wants to join Villa. The transfer could be finalized soon, strengthening Villa's push as unlikely contenders.[1][2][3]

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