Credit: Imago

Chris Smith

Mon 14 July 2025 16:45, UK

Aston Villa could perform a U-turn on John McGinn following the latest update regarding Conor Gallagher.

McGinn has been linked with a move away from Villa Park this summer, with Everton understood to hold a serious interest in the midfielder.

For now, Villa have remained steadfast in their desire to keep the 30-year-old, but Football Insider understands the Toffees could return for a second bite of the cherry later in the window.

And David Moyes will hope the latest updates coming out of the Midlands will give him a better negotiating position.

Aston Villa join Conor Gallagher race

While Unai Emery still sees McGinn as an important part of his midfield, Football Insider revealed on Monday (14 July) that Villa have joined Newcastle United in the race for Conor Gallagher.

The England international is highly thought of at Atletico Madrid, who he joined from Chelsea in the summer of 2024.

But the Spanish giants would be willing to sell Gallagher at the right price.

A bidding war could be on the cards, with Aston Villa set to battle Newcastle for the 25-year-old’s signature, which could cost somewhere in the region of £50million.

Gallagher signing would clear path for Everton to sign John McGinn

If Gallagher were to arrive at Villa Park, that could completely change the picture for McGinn.

The Scotland international turns 31 in October and at this stage of his career, will have no interest in battling for his place in the starting line-up — especially given his status as club captain.

That wouldn’t be an issue at Everton, with Abdoulaye Doucoure departing this summer, leaving Moyes in need of another body in midfield.

McGinn would be an ideal fit for Moyes, while a successful move for Gallagher would make this the perfect time for Villa to cash in on the former Hibs man, who still has two years to run on his current contract.