Newcastle ‘seriously considering’ £36m midfielder from PIF-linked club – set for St James’ Park visit

Newcastle United have turned their attention toward bolstering their midfield options this summer, with fresh reports linking them to Conor Gallagher, the dynamic midfielder who recently joined Atletico Madrid and has earned 21 caps for England.

Gallagher, known for his energy, tenacity, and versatility, is reportedly on Newcastle’s radar as they assess their squad depth ahead of a crucial campaign. While midfield isn’t their top priority, the uncertainty surrounding Sean Longstaff’s future has prompted the club to begin exploring possible reinforcements in that area.

Longstaff’s situation adds a layer of complexity to Newcastle’s transfer window. The 27-year-old is now into the final year of his contract, and while the club rejected a £12 million offer from newly-promoted Leeds United, they remain open to selling him if a better bid comes in.

With Longstaff seeking regular first-team football and Newcastle reluctant to lose him on a free next summer, a move seems increasingly likely. Personal terms with Leeds were reportedly agreed, but the Championship side failed to meet Newcastle’s valuation, causing negotiations to stall.

Longstaff struggled to earn consistent minutes last season, with his final Premier League start coming in December 2024.

With the likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton cementing their places in Eddie Howe’s preferred midfield trio, Longstaff often found himself on the periphery.

Gallagher, although unlikely to walk straight into the starting lineup, would represent a significant upgrade in squad depth.

His relentless pressing, Premier League experience, and ability to operate across multiple midfield roles make him an ideal candidate for a high-intensity system like Howe’s.

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo recently reported that Atletico Madrid are open to offers for Gallagher, stating that Newcastle are “seriously considering a move” for the midfielder.

Gallagher is described as someone who would “fit perfectly” into Howe’s system, further fuelling speculation that the club could soon take formal steps toward a deal. While nothing official has been initiated, Gallagher’s future could soon become a key subplot in Newcastle’s summer business.

The connection between Newcastle and Atletico Madrid adds a layer of intrigue. The two clubs established a strong working relationship following the PIF takeover in 2021, with Kieran Trippier joining from Atletico to become the first signing of the new era.

More recently, PIF-backed Riyadh Air entered into a lucrative sponsorship agreement with Atletico Madrid, even securing a nine-year naming rights deal for the Estadio Metropolitano. These ties suggest that any future negotiations between the two clubs may be smoother than usual.

Adding further interest to the situation, Atletico Madrid are scheduled to face Newcastle at St James’ Park on August 9 as part of the Sela Cup. That fixture could serve as more than just a friendly; it might become an audition for Gallagher—or perhaps even mark his debut in black and white if Newcastle move quickly.

With fans expected to fill the stands and eyes on both clubs’ pre-season preparations, the match will undoubtedly be watched closely by scouts and decision-makers alike.

However, it’s important to note that despite longstanding interest in Gallagher, reports suggesting Newcastle are on the verge of making a move have been downplayed.

While there is admiration for the player, the club’s current focus remains on strengthening other key positions. With Callum Wilson’s departure, signing a striker remains the top priority, followed by a centre-back.

Talks are also ongoing with Burnley for goalkeeper James Trafford, as the club continues to seek value in the transfer market without overspending.

Newcastle’s approach this summer has been cautious but calculated. With Financial Fair Play restrictions still looming and the squad already packed with talent in some areas, the club is taking a strategic route—prioritizing essential roles first before looking at depth signings.

Gallagher, should a deal come to fruition, would bring quality and depth to a midfield that already boasts some of the Premier League’s finest talents.

Whether he arrives before or after the Sela Cup remains to be seen, but if Newcastle sense the right opportunity, Gallagher could soon find himself playing a key role in Howe’s ambitious project on Tyneside.