Transfer news LIVE! Mbappe urged to stay at PSG, Salah, Haaland update; Arsenal, Man United, Liverpool rumours

Transfer news - LIVE!

The January transfer window is just around the corner as the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea consider how to shuffle their packs ahead of the business end of the season.

The Gunners could be very active in the market but chiefly in moving on unwanted stars, with Pierre- Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah all attracting attention.

Juventus are said to be tracking former club captain Aubameyang, who is yet to feature for Arsenal since a disciplinary breach that angered Mikel Arteta.

Further interest from Italy comes from AC Milan, this time for Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech. The Moroccan is yet to fully hit top form under Thomas Tuchel and has reportedly made noises about his lack of game time at Stamford Bridge.

And, as ever, there are plenty of clubs watching Erling Haaland. With Ferran Torres soon departing for Barcelona, Manchester City are said to be building the funds for the Borussia Dortmund star.

Keep up to date with all of today’s latest transfer news, rumours and gossip with Standard Sport’s LIVE blog below!

Latest transfer news and rumours

• Juventus want Aubameyang

• Man City could make Haaland offer

• Man United forward Cavani could make Spanish switch

• Liverpool scout Real Madrid star

• Salah makes Liverpool contract demands

• Mbappe encouraged to sign new PSG deal

• Bayern close in on Raphinha

Boubacar Kamara to Old Trafford?

21:17 , Matt Verri

Boubacar Kamara’s contract at Marseille is up at the end of the season, and there is no sign yet of any new deal between struck between player and club.

L’Equipe report that the defensive midfielder is increasingly unwilling to sign a contract, with Man United being one of the most likely destinations for the 22-year-old.

Kamara could sign a pre-contract agreement with United in January ahead of joining them in the summer, or Marseille may decide to use their last chance to secure a fee by selling the midfielder in the upcoming window.

Raphinha linked with Bayern Munich move

20:32 , Matt Verri

There is a lot of excitement in Brazil, with reports than Raphinha is nearing a move to Bayern Munich in the January window.

According to TNT Sports Brasil, the Leeds are close to agreeing a £42m switch for the winger. That would be a huge blow for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, who are already struggling this season.

All will be revealed in January...

Mina to leave Goodison Park?

19:31 , Matt Verri

Yerry Mina is being linked with a move away from Everton, with Napoli believed to be interested in the Colombian defender.

The Italian club are monitoring Mina and see him as a potential replacement for Kostas Manolas according to Gazzetta Dello sport. Manolas was solid to Olympiacos earlier this month.

Mina has made only six Premier League starts this season due to injury, one of many absentees that Rafa Benitez has had to deal with at Everton.

Tripper again rumoured to make Premier League return

18:29 , Matt Verri

He’s been linked to Man United, he’s been linked to Tottenham... and now he’s being linked to Newcastle.

Kieran Trippier is a wanted man. The 31-year-old has only just returned to the Atletico Madrid side after a month out with injury, but ESPN report that the Spanish club are expecting Newcastle to make a bid in the region of £17m in January.

The right-back won La Liga last season with Atletico, and was then heavily linked with a move back to England in the summer. It didn’t happen then... will it happen this time?

Mbappe urged to stay at PSG

17:33 , Matt Verri

Kylian Mbappe’s contract at PSG runs out at the end of the season, and a free transfer to Real Madrid currently seems to be the most probable outcome.

But the Frenchman’s teammate Ander Herrera has not given up hope that Mbappe could commit his future to PSG before the season is out.

“There is scope to try to renew Mbappe,” he told Mundo Deportivo.

“We have many examples of footballers who have done it in February, March or April. There’s still time.”

Igahlo back to Premier League again?

16:40 , Matt Verri

Striker Odion Ighalo spent a year on loan at Manchester United, before departing for Saudi Arabian club Al Shadab at the start of this year.

Sky Sports report that a Premier League return could be in the pipeline for the 32-year-old. They claim that Ighalo would be extremely interested, should an offer come in.

Newcastle are keen to sign a striker in the January window, as they look to make a number of signings to help secure their top-flight status.

Anthony Elanga commits future to United

15:39 , Matt Verri

Man United announced today that Anthony Elanga has signed a new contract at the club, committing his future through to 2026.

The BBC report that there is plenty of loan interest in the 19-year-old, with clubs keen to secure his services in January.

But Ralf Rangnick is believed to have decided that Elanga will stay at United for the rest of the season.

Maitland-Niles attracting attention

14:49 , Matt Verri

Versatile midfielder and full-back Ainsley Maitland-Niles as made just two Premier League starts this season and is seemingly not in Mikel Arteta’s plans at the moment.

The 24-year-old joined West Brom after Christmas last year for a loan spell, and he could be off again in January.

The Telegraph and The Athletic both report that Roma are in talks to sign Maitland-Niles on loan in the upcoming window, potentially with an option to buy at the end of the season. Everton are also believed to be interested, but the Italian side are leading the race.

Salah makes demands

12:32 , Jonathan Gorrie

According to Sky in Germany, Mohamed Salah is keen for Liverpool to bring in attacking reinforcement before signing a new deal at Anfield.

Out of contract in the summer of 2023, the forward is said to want the club to commit to strengthening in pursuit of the game’s major trophies.

Southampton could extend Caballero contract

12:30 , Jonathan Gorrie

While Willy Caballero can hardly be considered a long-term signing, Southampton are understood to be considering offering the veteran an extension to the one-month deal they signed him on amid their goalkeeping crisis.

“Yeah, there is a chance definitely because in this moment and situation, you never know how quick it goes with Covid that you lose a few players,” said manager Ralph Hasenhuttl.

Newcastle United make Dembele contact

12:23 , Jonathan Gorrie

Renowned transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has revealed mega-rich Newcastle United have made contact with Ousmane Dembele in regards to a potential move to St James’ Park in January.

The French forward, perhaps unsurprisingly, is understood to be waiting to see what happens at the Camp Nou before making a decision.

Done deal!

11:40 , Marc Mayo

Early movement north of the border...

Hearts have signed centre-back Nathaniel Atkinson from Melbourne City for an undisclosed fee.

Trio have eyes on Eddie

11:14 , Marc Mayo

West Ham, Crystal Palace and Brighton are reportedly chasing a January deal for Eddie Nketiah.

The Mail says that the Arsenal striker, out of contract in the summer, could move now to earn a proper fee after he hit a hat-trick past Sunderland.

Mikel Arteta is said to want the 22-year-old to stay, but his desire for first-team football could push him towards the exit door.

Cavani targets Spain switch

10:49 , Marc Mayo

Edinson Cavani wants to pull on the Barcelona shirt next season, according to reports in Spain.

Mundo Deportivo claim a move to LaLiga is the Manchester United striker’s priority, once his Old Trafford deal expires in the summer.

And while Sevilla are keen on a deal for the veteran, Barcelona is his wish.

Liverpool scout out Camavinga saga

10:22 , Marc Mayo

Jurgen Klopp is out to take advantage of Eduardo Camavinga’s feud with Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti.

The French starlet has not been a regular at the Bernabeu since his summer arrival - and Spanish outlet El Nacional claim he could be let go for just £38million.

A loan exit is an alternative, with Liverpool said to be front of the queue if Los Blancos let him leave.

10:03 , Marc Mayo

Mikel Arteta has described the ‘cloud’ over soon to be out-of-contract strikers Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah.

The Arsenal boss said: “We have a cloud and the cloud is there and, at the moment, we’re not able to change it. .

“We’re working on it to try to make it as small as possible and as clear as possible, but it’s the situation we are in because contracts have details, the timing of them is tricky and we are trying to resolve it.”

Bees chase Brennan

09:42 , Marc Mayo

A £20million deal is reportedly in the offing to take Brennan Johnson to Brentford next month.

The Nottingham Forest winger, 22, has been a breakout star at the City Ground this season, scoring five goals.

And 90min report on the Bees targeting Johnson, if they can cut his valuation down.

City prepping for Haaland bid?

09:20 , Marc Mayo

Manchester City have already formulated the funds to sign Erling Haaland - say MEN.

They outline how the Norwegian striker’s £75million release clause will soon be sat in the bank due to a quartet of deals.

Ferran Torres’ move to Barcelona will bag around £50m, when his transfer add-ons start trickling through, with Pedro Porro’s £8m move to Sporting CP set to go through at the end of his two-year loan.

Ko Itakura could earn a fresh £5m as part of his loan switch to Schalke and Bournemouth have a £9m option to sign loanee Morgan Rogers - if the Cherries go up.

Old Lady seeks new man up top

08:52 , Marc Mayo

Juventus are in the market for a new striker next month, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Chief among their targets are Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Anthony Martial of Manchester United.

The Gunners’ forward has not played since being stripped of the club captaincy by Mikel Arteta, for a disciplinary breach, having also struggled in front of goal of late.

Meanwhile, United’s Martial is struggling at Old Trafford - but The Athletic note that his £240,000-a-week wage demands could scupper a deal.

Ziyech to Milan?

08:32 , Marc Mayo

AC Milan are in the market for a central defender and potentially a winger next month - with Hakim Ziyech on their radar.

Calciomercato report that the Chelsea winger is seen as a potential option, alongside Brest forward Romain Favre.

Jesus Corona of Porto and Atalanta’s Aleksey Miranchuk are also being considered with Ziyech recently claimed to be unhappy at Stamford Bridge due to a lack of game time.

Good morning!

08:25 , Marc Mayo

A new day and so many transfer rumours to keep on top of today, so let’s begin!

Renato Sanches could be allowed to leave Lille

Thursday 23 December 2021 21:22 , Matt Verri

Renato Sanches has been enjoying life in France and his performances have once again caught the attention across Europe.

It’s reported that the midfielder believes he has a gentlemen’s agreement with Lille that will let him leave should the right bid come in January.

Lille’s president had this to say earlier in the season: “If an offer from a big club arrives, he can leave.”

Arsenal and AC Milan look to be the two frontrunners, with the Gunners looking to add to their midfield options ahead of losing Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny to the Africa Cup of Nations.

Aaron Ramsey back in England?

Thursday 23 December 2021 20:07 , Matt Verri

It’s been a torrid season for Aaron Ramsey so far - the Welshman has played just 111 minutes of football for Juventus across Serie A and the Champions League

His time in Italy has not been a success, and Tuttosport claim that Juventus are keen for Ramsey to leave, freeing up his wages.

They could be in luck, as it’s been reported that Newcastle have offered the midfielder a three-year contract worth £150,000-a-week. That may well tempt him to make a return to the Premier League...

Barcelona keen on Laporte

Thursday 23 December 2021 19:20 , Matt Verri

It looks like they are going to sign Ferran Torres this winter, but Barcelona may be looking to take another Man City player to the Nou Camp.

El Nacional report that Xavi is interested in bringing Aymeric Laporte to the club, hoping that the competition with Ruben Dias and John Stones may persuade Laporte to look for a move.

But it’s believed the 27-year-old is happy at City, and content with the amount of game-time Pep Guardiola has given him this season.

Barcelona don’t seem to be letting their financial situation slow them down this window though...

Mbappe a free agent very soon...

Thursday 23 December 2021 18:31 , Matt Verri

Kylian Mbappe’s PSG deal runs out at the end of the season, so he is able to talk to clubs and sign a pre-contract agreement in January.

Real Madrid pushed to sign the Frenchman in the summer, and reports suggest they are still the favourites to secure Mbappe.

Diario AS claim that the the 23-year-old has decided it would be wrong to agree a deal with Madrid in January, as they face his current side PSG in the Champions League last 16 in February.

Still lots to be decided when it comes to his future.

Newcastle keeping tabs on Dembele situation

Thursday 23 December 2021 17:56 , Matt Verri

Talk about a statement signing...

Fabrizio Romano reports that Newcastle enquired about the possibility of bringing Ousmane Dembele to St. James’ Park, with the winger’s contract at Barcelona expiring at the end of the season.

It seems increasingly likely that the Frenchman will be persuaded to stay at the Nou Camp and extend his deal there, but should there be a breakdown in negotiations there will be plenty of clubs interested in Dembele.

Could Newcastle’s new riches be enough to tempt the winger?

Milinkovic-Savic looks set to stay at Lazio

Thursday 23 December 2021 17:16 , Matt Verri

There has been plenty of talk about Sergej Milinkovic-Savic having a falling out with Lazio boss Mauricio Sarri, and that the midfield wast therefore pushing for a move away.

The 26-year-old has been heavily linked with Man United, who are likely to bolster their midfield options - particularly with Paul Pogba’s future being uncertain. But Milinkovic-Savic has denied he is looking to leave the Italian club.

“I see lot of rumours about me but… I don’t care! I just want Lazio to win,” the midfielder said.

Asked about the situation, his manager Sarri said: “I read one of the biggest fake news, that I had a fight with Milinkovic-Savic. I don’t think so.”

Brentford to lose Vanderson battle?

Thursday 23 December 2021 16:40 , Matt Verri

Club captain Pontus Jansson is out of contract at the end of the season (though there is a one-year option on his deal), so Brentford could bring forward their move for a replacement to bolster Thomas Frank’s options, writes Malik Ouzia.

Cover at right-back is high on the list of priorities again - Sergi Canos has excelled as a wing-back but is a winger by trade, while B-team graduate Mads Roerslev has not always convinced.

Gremio defender Vanderson has been heavily linked but recent reports suggest the 20-year-old is on the brink of joining Monaco.

Click here to read the full article.

Palace to bring in wide player?

Thursday 23 December 2021 16:17 , Matt Verri

What Patrick Vieira may want to address is the gap left by players who are set to be heading off for the Africa Cup of Nations next month, writes Jack Rosser.

Wilfried Zaha, Jeffrey Schlupp and Jordan Ayew are all set to play at the tournament, which will see players leave shortly after Christmas.

AFCON runs until early February, meaning Vieira will be without some key figures for a significant run of games. Bringing a wide player in on loan, one who is ready to hit the ground running and provide good cover, could be a good option should the opportunity arise, while some cover at left-back would not go amiss.

A loan or permanent exit for striker Jean-Philippe Mateta would certainly suit all parties next month.

Click here to read the full article.

Lucas Digne offered way out?

Thursday 23 December 2021 15:32 , Matt Verri

Rafa Benitez and Lucas Digne have reportedly fallen out in recent weeks, with the Frenchman absent from the Everton lineup.

Foot Mercato report that Napoli are considering making a January move for the left-back, taking advantage of the issues he is having at Everton.

The Everton boss has tried to play down any problems between him and Digne, and with the Toffees only having nine outfield players available for their Boxing Day clash, he may be forced to bring the Frenchman back into the side.

“He’s an important player and is working hard during games and training,” Benitez said. “It’s not about the manager or the player, it’s about the fans and the club.

“Lucas is our player. The other players in the market, everyone can talk about that, but my main concern is to concentrate on the players I have and the players that are available.

“Lucas is one of these players, so hopefully he could be available [to face Burnley].”

Tottenham hunting for January bargains as rebuild begins

Thursday 23 December 2021 14:10 , George Flood

Antonio Conte will have the chance to begin reshaping his squad and accelerate Tottenham’s rebuild in January.

Conte has spent his first two months in charge closely assessing his players before delivering his recommendations to Daniel Levy and Fabio Paratici.

Spurs are in the transfer market for a new forward and right wing-back who can offer more in the final third than Emerson Royal, with Matt Doherty among the players who are free to leave.

The club is expected to consider offers for Dele Alli, with a loan exit most likely.

However, Dele offered a timely reminder of what he can offer in the recent draw with Liverpool and Conte has challenged him the make the performance a “starting point” – suggesting he could still have a Spurs future.

Click here to read the full article.

Eden Hazard in Lille return?

Thursday 23 December 2021 14:03 , George Flood

A lot of talk of sensational reunions circulating just at the moment... is one on the cards for Eden Hazard?

No not Chelsea, but French champions Lille.

Real Madrid have a long-standing interest in Canadian forward Jonathan David and Marca suggest that Hazard could be included in a part-exchange deal.

Guardiola not disappointed by Ferran sale

Thursday 23 December 2021 13:50 , George Flood

Asked if he was disappointed by Ferran Torres’ impending exit, Pep Guardiola said: “Absolutely not. If you want to leave because you’re not happy here, you believe you’ll be happy in another place, you have to go.

“The career is short, one day it’s over. If he wants to leave, absolutely no disappointment. It’s his desire, I’m happy for him.

“If we had just two or three attacking players then maybe Ferran would think he had more chance to play and stay longer.

“Always I have the feeling that when Barcelona or Real Madrid knock on the door of players then it is difficult to say no. So difficult. They are still the strongest teams in the world in terms of fashion, cities and many reasons.

“He is from Spain, Barcelona knock and I understand why he wants to leave.”

Guardiola confirms Ferran Torres close to Barcelona move

Thursday 23 December 2021 13:12 , George Flood

Pep Guardiola has been speaking to the media ahead of Manchester City’s Boxing Day clash with Leicester.

The Spaniard has confirmed that Ferran Torres’ move to Barcelona is close and insisted he would not stand in his compatriot’s way as he seeks to seal a swift return to LaLiga.

“It’s not done officially, I know they are negotiating and it is close. When the club announces, it’s done,” Guardiola said, adding City had no plans to sign a striker in January.

Kulusevski to Arsenal if Pepe exits?

Thursday 23 December 2021 13:03 , George Flood

Mikel Arteta has said Arsenal are “very alert” ahead of the January transfer window, but fans should not expect the kind of spending spree we saw in the summer, writes Simon Collings.

Back then, Arsenal reshaped their squad by coughing up around £140million on new players and that is unlikely to be replicated next month.

Much of Arsenal’s business is likely to be shaped by outgoings, with the future of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang the big unanswered question.

The forward still has 18 months left to run on his contract worth £250,000-a-week and, at 32 years of age, he would surely be hard to sell.

Fellow forwards Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah also have uncertain futures, but they look more likely to leave for free next summer rather than in January. Another striker, Folarin Balogun, is set to go out on loan.

Click here to read the full article

Brereton Diaz? Origi? West Ham need new striker, urgently

Thursday 23 December 2021 12:35 , George Flood

West Ham‘s lack of a striker to cover for and compete with Michail Antonio is not something David Moyes needs reminding about, but it is an issue he must fix next month, writes Jack Rosser.

It was unfortunate for West Ham’s talisman to miss the Carabao Cup quarter-final defeat to Tottenham due to a positive coronavirus test, especially considering the forward is fully vaccinated, but the absence of an alternative is an issue of West Ham’s own making and one which cannot continue.

It has been almost a year since the club made the call to sell Sebastien Haller to Ajax. That decision remains the correct one as Haller offered far too little in a West Ham shirt, but the east Londoners cannot go on without a replacement if they want to compete on all fronts.

It was not just the absence of a striker which hurt West Ham against Spurs. Moyes’s squad has also been decimated in defence, but in lacking a focal point going forward the visitors could not take advantage of their second-half dominance.

West Ham put on a strong show given the names missing. As well as Antonio, there is still no Aaron Cresswell while Vladimir Coufal was suspended and Kurt Zouma and Angelo Ogbonna are both long-term absentees.

Click here to read the full article

Kounde still Chelsea’s leading target in January

Thursday 23 December 2021 11:37 , George Flood

Ahead of the opening of the January transfer window, Standard Sport’s team of football writers have put together a selection of brief guides for each club focusing on any potential incoming or outgoing business.

Here’s James Robson on Chelsea:

Thomas Tuchel is happy with his squad, so any major incomings would be a case of summer targets becoming available in the New Year. Jules Kounde remains Chelsea’s leading defensive target.

It would be more a case of departures, but Tuchel is reluctant to lose first-team players, despite doubts hanging over the futures of Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner. It is believed Tuchel would prefer to keep both until the summer at the earliest.

Malang Sarr is one player who could be sent out on loan, with Italian clubs linked with the centre-back. Ross Barkley is another who has the potential to move but, given injuries suffered by N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic already this season, Tuchel will want as much midfield cover as possible.

Rising Covid levels will also be a growing consideration for clubs, who may have to face postponements due to outbreaks of cases.

The futures of out-of-contract players will come into even sharper focus from next month, with Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen, Thiago Silva and Cesar Azpilicueta all able to talk to foreign clubs in the New Year.

Click here to read the full article

‘Colombian Ronaldo’ Diaz to Liverpool?

Thursday 23 December 2021 10:51 , George Flood

And what about potential January arrivals at Liverpool?

Jurgen Klopp may surely be tempted to find attacking cover next month with both Mo Salah and Sadio Mane due to travel to the Africa Cup of Nations with the tournament in Cameroon now seemingly given the green light.

Reports cited by FourFourTwo claim that Liverpool are eyeing a move for Porto forward Luis Diaz - a player previously dubbed the ‘Colombian Cristiano Ronaldo’ who featured against the Reds during the Champions League group stage this season.

Everton ready to hand Coutinho lifeline

Thursday 23 December 2021 10:12 , George Flood

Could Philippe Coutinho make a sensational return to Merseyside in January?

According to Spanish outlets Mundo Deportivo and AS, the former Liverpool star could be offered a route out of Barcelona, where he has badly struggled to live up to his £145m price tag from 2018.

But it is apparently Everton - not Liverpool - who are keen to bring Coutinho back to the north-west.

Rafael Benitez AND Coutinho at Goodison?! Surely not!

Watford target Kolasinac loan swoop

Thursday 23 December 2021 09:21 , George Flood

Watford have expressed an interest in Arsenal defender Sead Kolasinac, writes Simon Collings.

The Hornets want to sign a left-back during the January transfer window and Kolasinac is on their list of targets.

The Bosnian has just over six months to run on his contract at Arsenal and he is set to leave for free in the summer.

Watford would be interested in signing Kolasinac on loan for the rest of the season, but Arsenal would need to subsidise his £100,000-a-week wages.

Any deal for the 28-year-old is in its early stages, with Watford still assessing which left-back they will look to sign next month.

The club have shown an interest in Hibernian teenager Josh Doig, but a deal for him is more likely to take place in the summer. Rangers left-back Borna Barisic is another reported target.

Kolasinac, meanwhile, is thought to be open to the idea of joining Watford and continuing to play in the Premier League.

Tottenham and Man United eye Trippier deal

Thursday 23 December 2021 08:42 , George Flood

Kieran Trippier makes the transfer headlines once again today.

90min.com report that NINE Premier League clubs have lodged enquiries with Atletico Madrid over the England full-back’s availability.

Such a number is said to include former employers Tottenham as well as Manchester United and Newcastle.

Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, Everton and Wolves are also believed to be chasing Trippier’s signature in January.

Liverpool ‘contenders’ for Haaland deal

Thursday 23 December 2021 08:00 , George Flood

Another day, another boatload of Erling Haaland rumours.

Liverpool are now said to be contenders for the Borussia Dortmund goal machine, with current Reds star Mo Salah reported to be demanding high-profile reinforcements at Anfield.

Meanwhile, Marca report that Dortmund are willing to double Haaland’s €8m-per-year salary in a bid to stave off interest from heavyweight clubs across the continent.

Manchester United, Manchester City and Real Madrid have all been strongly linked with the Norwegian talisman.

Barcelona agree Ferran Torres signing

Thursday 23 December 2021 07:57 , George Flood

Speaking of Barcelona, they are wasting little time in strengthening Xavi’s attacking options ahead of the January transfer window.

According to multiple outlets including The Guardian, a deal to sign Ferran Torres from Manchester City has now been agreed.

Barca will pay an initial €55m fee to take the ex-Valencia winger back to LaLiga, with the deal potentially rising to €65m with add-ons.

Torres is expected to travel to Spain in the next 24 hours to undergo a medical and agree the formalities of a lucrative five-year contract.

Chelsea weigh up £30m Sergino Dest bid

Thursday 23 December 2021 07:53 , George Flood

One player who could be set to leave the Camp Nou is Sergino Dest.

The Daily Express claim that Chelsea are weighing up a £30m move for the American international full-back, with Barca said to be interested in taking back Blues skipper Cesar Azpilicueta.

Arsenal and Bayern Munich are also believed to be on Dest’s trail. One to watch.

Barcelona tracking Arsenal wonderkid Patino

Thursday 23 December 2021 07:49 , George Flood

Staying with Arsenal for a moment... do the Gunners have a battle on their hands to retain the services of Charlie Patino?

The 18-year-old already has a big reputation, further enhanced by scoring on his senior debut against Sunderland in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night.

Now The Sun claim that Barcelona are tracking Patino, who will surely be presented with a new contract offer at the Emirates very soon.

Arsenal handed Jonathan David boost

Thursday 23 December 2021 07:39 , George Flood

Arsenal appear to have been handed a sizeable boost in the race to sign Jonathan David.

The Gunners are thought to be long-term admirers of the Canadian forward, who has also been linked with a host of other clubs across Europe including Real Madrid.

And it looks like David will be on the move sooner rather than later, with his agent confirming that this will be his last season at Lille as he talked up a potential switch to the Premier League.

“For us, the goal is to finish the season in Lille, but it will be his last season there for several reasons. I think the Premier League is a good option for him,” Nick Mavromaras told Radio Canada.

“I think that he likes Spain a lot also because he likes the feeling of the ball and the very technical players. These two leagues are a big priority for him, but nothing is excluded.”

He added: “I can’t say the price today. It’s down to Lille. But in the end, that’s football. Jonathan isn’t going to show it, but he knows he is one of the best young forwards in the world.

“There’s also Erling Haaland who could cost between €75m and €100m… If you want to be part of that list, you have to learn to manage the pressure.”

Tottenham and Mourinho battling for Grillitsch

Wednesday 22 December 2021 18:59 , Matt Verri

Antonio Conte is likely to be looking for a number of signings in January to strengthen the Tottenham team, and midfielder Florian Grillitsch could be one of those.

The Hoffenheim player is another one who is out of contract in the summer. It looks likely he will either leave for free in the summer, or the German club might be tempted to try and secure a small fee in January.

The 26-year-old Austrian has played both as a defensive midfielder and a centre-back this season. Sky Germany report that Spurs and Jose Mourinho’s Roma are the two most likely options for Grillitsch.

Moyes and Januzaj together for a third time?

Wednesday 22 December 2021 17:37 , Matt Verri

Adnan Januzaj has been at Real Sociedad for the last four years, but that time could be coming to an end.

The 26-year-old’s contract runs out at the end of the season, and TodoFichajes report that Barcelona and West Ham have both registered interest in signing the winger in January.

David Moyes gave Januzaj his debut at Man United and also worked with him at Sunderland, which may help to persuade the player to choose the London Stadium over the Nou Camp.

Rangick wants to keep Dalot

Wednesday 22 December 2021 16:45 , Matt Verri

Diogo Dalot has clearly made an impression on Ralf Rangnick at Man United, as it’s been claimed that the interim boss is blocking any January exit for the full-back.

Italian publication Calcio Mercato report that former United boss Jose Mourinho had an agreement with Dalot to bring him to Roma in the window, with the player having very little game-time under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

But he’s had more joy under the new manager, and it looks like Rangnick wants to keep Dalot at Old Trafford until at least the end of the season.

West Ham leading race for Sam Johnstone

Wednesday 22 December 2021 16:16 , Matt Verri

West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is out of contract in the summer and there’s no indication that he is planning to extend his deal at the club.

West Ham are one team keeping tabs on the situation, with David Moyes seeing the Englishman as a player who could compete with Lukasz Fabianski, according to the Telegraph.

Southampton are also interested, after they had to sign Willy Caballero on a short-term deal to cover for injuries to Alex McCarthy and Fraser Forster. Should Johnstone be available on a free transfer, he is unlikely to be short of offers.

Ferran Torres to Barcelona nearly official

Wednesday 22 December 2021 15:41 , Matt Verri

The transfer window is not open yet, but it looks like we have a done deal.

Fabrizio Romano reports that Ferran Torres to Barcelona has been completed, and will be officially signed in the next few hours.

The 21-year-old joined Man City last season and injury this campaign has meant he only featured in his side’s first four league matches. But a fee of €55m plus €10m add ons looks done, and Torres will be returning to Spain.

Coutinho on the move?

Wednesday 22 December 2021 15:20 , Matt Verri

Philipe Coutinho has made just five La Liga starts for Barcelona all season, and played barely more than 100 minutes in total in the Champions League group stage.

Mundo Deportivo report that Xavi is very keen to offload the Brazilian in January, and he has been linked with several Premier League clubs.

Everton are one possible destination, which would see the ex-Liverpool midfielder join the ex-Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez. Newcastle and Tottenham are also rumoured to be interested.

Chelsea track former Man United youngster

Wednesday 22 December 2021 14:32 , Jonathan Gorrie

The Daily Telegraph claim Chelsea are tracking former Manchester United youngster, Deji Sotona.

The London giants were thought to have been interested in a summer move for the forward, who reportedly wants to return to England after failing to break into the first-team at Nice.

Noted for his blistering pace, club scouts are thought to have maintained their interest in the player.

Manchester United eye Kingsley Coman

Wednesday 22 December 2021 13:42 , Jonathan Gorrie

As if Manchester United weren’t already well-stocked in attack, Mundo Deportivo claim the club are considering a move for Bayern Munich star, Kingsley Coman.

One of the most decorated players in the game, the French winger is understood to have attracted the attention of United, Barcelona and Real Madrid as he weighs up his future in the Bundesliga.

Phil Jones a Benfica target

Wednesday 22 December 2021 13:08 , Jonathan Gorrie

Perhaps one of the stranger rumours to have emerged, Manchester United outcast Phil Jones is reportedly a target for Benfica.

According to the Daily Mail, the former England defender is finally ready to leave Old Trafford in pursuit of first-team football and the Lisbon giants could well offer him an escape route.

Tottenham still open to loaning Dele Alli out in January

Wednesday 22 December 2021 12:34 , Jonathan Gorrie

Despite his impressive performance against Liverpool on Sunday, Standard Sport’s Dan Kilpatrick has offered some fresh insight as to the England international’s future at the club.

You can read the full report here.

Nicolas Pepe unhappy at Arsenal

Wednesday 22 December 2021 11:37 , Jonathan Gorrie

Mikel Arteta has admitted Nicolas Pepe, who has rarely convinced since joining the club for £72m in 209, has been unhappy with his role at the club.

Limited to just a few starts all season, the Ivorian bagged twice against Sunderland in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals but looks unlikely to be able to make a case to start more regularly, given he’ll be away at the African Cup of Nations.

Two Premier League clubs keen on Joe Rodon

Wednesday 22 December 2021 11:09 , Jonathan Gorrie

The Times claim Newcastle have also joined Brighton in the race to sign Joe Rodon this January.

Tottenham manager Antonio Conte did recently admit the Welshman was behind Eric Dier in the pecking order in north London, so perhaps a loan move would suit.

Rarely involved at Spurs, it could give Rodon a new lease of life.

Newcastle in for Manuel Lanzini?

Wednesday 22 December 2021 10:30 , Jonathan Gorrie

90min suggest Newcastle could make a shock loan move for Manuel Lanzini in January.

Eddie Howe is believed to want Premier League experience and the Argentine, who has fallen behind other attacking options in East London, is said to be a target.

Quite how West Ham would feel about that given the very real concerns about the size of their squad remains to be seen, of course.

Arsenal have scouted three forwards

Wednesday 22 December 2021 09:12 , Jonathan Gorrie

Our very own Simon Collings offered some insight as to Arsenal’s search for a striker.

England forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin is among one of three forwards Mikel Arteta has cast keen eyes on amid doubts about the futures of another of his current players.

You can read the full piece here.

Liverpool after Erling Haaland

Wednesday 22 December 2021 08:12 , Jonathan Gorrie

Arguably the most in-demand in world football at the moment, Erling Haaland’s future will likely be the subject of much debate over the next few weeks.

According to Sky in Germany, Liverpool - despite not having the kind of financial backing of some of the other leading teams on the continent - are a genuine contender for the Norway forward’s signature.

Chelsea’s bid for Marquinhos

Wednesday 22 December 2021 08:10 , Jonathan Gorrie

Over to France now and L’Equipe claim Chelsea saw a £72m bid for PSG captain Marquinhos snubbed in the summer.

Thomas Tuchel’s interest in Jules Kounde was widely reported over the course of the summer and, while a defender did not come in, the fact Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen and Cezar Azpilicueta are all out of contract at the end of the season could see them relaunch their interest.

Real Madrid to swoop for Gomez?

Wednesday 22 December 2021 08:02 , Jonathan Gorrie

According to the Daily Mail, Real Madrid are keen on a move for England and Liverpool defender Joe Gomez.

The 24-year-old is understood to be viewed as a potential alternative to Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea as Madrid look to strengthen a backline to have lost both Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos of late, albeit David Alaba did come in.