The bold Man United and Atletico Madrid swap transfer deal which could cause World Cup squad chaos

Manchester United have begun somewhat of a revival in recent weeks, with clear shoots of recovery under Ruben Amorim as the Red Devils look to challenge for a return to Europe.

New signings such as Bryan Mbeumo and Senne Lammens have shone since their arrival, particularly in a strong month of October which has seen Mbeumo crowned Premier League Player of the Month and Amorim as Manager of the Month. But the progress must not stop here for United, with crucial fixtures on the way as the Red Devils look to strengthen their grip on a top-six push.

The January transfer window could prove a crucial time of year for Amorim’s side, who might still require reinforcements across multiple areas of the pitch and could use the winter window to secure fresh faces. It could also prove to be an opportunity for out-of-favour stars to seek a new start elsewhere, as is the case with one player.

Kobbie Mainoo seeking January exit as 10-strong list of suitors pile up

As reported by Caught Offside, Mainoo looks set to ‘push to leave’ Old Trafford in January as the 20-year-old continues to be a bit-part player in Amorim’s demanding midfield system.

“They stopped him leaving in the summer, but make no mistake, he wants out, and the club know that,” one source has said, as per the report. With Serie A champions Napoli cited as leading contenders for Mainoo, rival suitors include Chelsea, Tottenham, Man City, Newcastle, Leeds, Everton, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona. While some of these clubs are believed to hold a more concrete interest than others, the high reputation held of Mainoo across England and the continent is evident.

However, the 10-cap England international is simply not fancied by Amorim as having the correct attributes to star in his 3-4-2-1 system, and despite his continued praise of Mainoo to the media, it appears clear that the academy prospect’s fortunes are unlikely to change.

With Atletico cited as holding a ‘genuine’ interest in Mainoo, the ‘strongest interest’ of La Liga’s big three mentioned, this could open up the possibility of a major January swap deal which could see United finally agree to part ways with their Carrington graduate.

Kobbie Mainoo and Conor Gallagher swap deal could be stunning solution

A swap deal involving Mainoo and Atletico midfielder Conor Gallagher makes a lot of sense, and could be a genuine possibility if United were to reluctantly accept that Mainoo must depart for his own good in January.

United have been linked with former Chelsea star Gallagher in recent weeks, as the tenacious midfielder has often found himself on the substitutes’ bench for Diego Simeone’s side. The 25-year-old has featured in every match this season but with only two league starts, his chances of earning a spot on the plane for the World Cup next summer have come into serious jeopardy. Gallagher has 21 England caps and was a part of the squad for Euro 2024 alongside Mainoo, but neither of the pair have yet featured under Thomas Tuchel.

While Atletico have shown a clear interest in the potential and technical quality possessed by Mainoo, United may also find exactly what they need in a midfielder like Gallagher. Often referred to as a ‘terrier’ in midfield due to his high work-rate and industrious qualities, the former Chelsea captain has leadership qualities and also has the ability to drive forward and score goals when needed. Tottenham have also previously been linked with the former Premier League star.

The signing of Gallagher could offer United something different in the middle of the park as they approach the business end of the season. Not to mention, a swap deal with Atletico for Mainoo could revive two England careers. While a swap loan deal involving both players could be agreed, a straight permanent swap might also be on the cards. It remains to be seen how this one plays out in the winter.