Qudus SalihuCrystal Palace fans are bracing themselves for a sensational reunion as the club moves closer to securing the return of former hero Conor Gallagher in the January 2026 window. The England international, who famously won the club’s Player of the Season award during a glittering loan spell in 2021/22, is reportedly seeking a move away from Atlético Madrid after finding consistent starts hard to come by under Diego Simeone.
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Gallagher is understood to be prioritizing regular first-team football to ensure his place in Thomas Tuchel’s squad. While heavyweights like Manchester United and Tottenham have been linked with the tireless midfielder, Selhurst Park remains the emotional frontrunner. Reports suggest Palace have already made contact with the player’s representatives, and the prospect of returning to a stadium where he is adored has set the fanbase alight.
Manager Oliver Glasner is reportedly eager to add Gallagher’s relentless energy and box-to-box presence to his midfield, viewing him as the perfect profile to drive the Eagles toward a top-half finish. Supporters are already planning a “comeback celebration” for the man who scored eight goals during his previous stint in South London, hoping his grit and leadership can galvanize the squad for the second half of the season.
Whether it is a loan deal with an option to buy or a permanent £35 million transfer, the return of Gallagher would represent a massive statement of intent. For the Palace faithful, seeing their former hero back in the red and blue stripes would be more than just a signing—it would be the homecoming of a player who truly understands the heartbeat of the club.
Rabiu Aminu
