We are now just a few weeks away from the January transfer window opening for business, with clubs in the Premier League likely to splash the cash on improving their squads.
Fierce battles have emerged across the division already this season and signing players in January could be decisive in clubs achieving their goals towards the end of the campaign.
As such, plenty of rumours are already floating around as the clubs plot their activity for the January window and we have gathered some of the latest snippets below.
Celtic rival Aston Villa for defensive target
Aston Villa face competition in the transfer market from Scottish champions Celtic for the services of Carlisle United defender Jarrad Branthwaite, Football Insider reports.
Villa’s interest in the towering League Two defender was first mentioned earlier this week, with the Premier League side considering the 17-year-old to be a star in the making.
However, they are not alone in their interest in the teenager as Celtic are compiling a dossier on Branthwaite as they consider making a swoop in January.
Juventus identify plan to snatch Manchester United midfielder
Italian champions Juventus are plotting a swoop to snatch Tahith Chong from Manchester United and Corriere Dello Sport, via Sport Witness, have highlighted two ways they can capture the Dutch youngster without paying a penny.
Chong sees his current deal at Old Trafford expire at the end of the season and Juventus have been encouraged by the lack of progress on a renewal - and there are two ways they could capture the teenager.
The first is a more patient approach and involves waiting until the end of the season for his arrival, with the Turin outfit able to discuss a pre-contractual agreement in January, while the other is an immediate deal by offering Mario Mandzukic in exchange.
Celtic to discuss deal with Manchester City
Scottish giants Celtic are looking to discuss extending Daniel Arzani’s loan deal north of the border, according to The World Game.
The Australia international arrived at the club on loan from Manchester City 15 months ago but has struggled with injury issues during his time at Parkhead, although he is targeting a return for the Boxing Day clash with St Mirren.
Despite his lack of opportunities, Celtic have clearly seen enough in Arzani as it’s stated the Bhoys are keen to extend his loan deal for the duration of the 2020/21 campaign.
Real Madrid and Spurs discussing striker swap
Tottenham are discussing a striker swap with Real Madrid that would see Harry Kane move to the Spanish capital and Karim Benzema arrive in North London, reports from El Desmarque claim.
However, Los Blancos are not pleased with Spurs’ demands for Kane’s services, as it’s stated that the Premier League side are seeking Benzema’s signature as well as a fee of £103m.
Overall, Kane’s valuation at Spurs is said to be around £171m but Real chief Florentino Perez sees his price-tag at far less at the £120m mark.
