Antoine Semenyo finally looks set to complete his move from Bournemouth to Manchester City after completing his medical on Thursday with a £62.5m deal agreed, despite claims of Liverpool throwing a late spanner in the works, with the January transfer window heating up.
Semenyo looked to be on the verge of a straightforward move to the Etihad Stadium but last night Jamie Redknapp predicted a “little twist” in the saga with Liverpool set to hijack things. That suggestion now appears to have been wide of the mark with the Cherries winger potentially being announced as a City player at some point today. The Reds may be turning their attention to PSG and France star Bradley Barcola instead, with reports of a mammoth £87m bid being readied. Elsewhere, both Liverpool and City received a transfer blow with Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner suggesting sought-after defender Marc Guehi will stay at the club in this window, although Arsenal have now also entered the race.
The Gunners have reignited their summer interest in Rennes wonderkid Jeremy Jacquet but face a tug of war for his signature with Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid also said to be interested, while Mikel Arteta’s side are also eyeing a stunning £86m move for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, who is wanted by United and Tottenham. They’re potentially prepared to loan out Ethan Nwaneri for more game-time, with Bournemouth keen as they aim to replace Semenyo, although Nwaneri himself is unsure about an exit.
The managerial merry-go-round has also been at full tilt over the past few days with Ruben Amorim dismissed by Man United less than 24 hours after his extraordinary rant following United’s 1-1 draw with Leeds. The likes of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick are now in the frame for the interim role but, as one manager left, another arrived with Chelsea confirming Liam Rosenior as their new head coach following the controversial departure of Enzo Maresca on New Year’s Day.
Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below:
January transfer window latest updates
- Man City agree terms of deal with Bournemouth for Antoine Semenyo as star undergoes medical
- Despite Jamie Redknapp claiming Liverpool would provide late 'twist' in the saga
- Arne Slot's Reds now preparing massive £87m bid for PSG's Bradley Barcola instead
- Arsenal enter race for Marc Guehi, but Man City still seen as favourites
- Gunners also face tug of war for wonderkid
- Deadline day on Monday 2 February at 7pm GMT
Bournemouth eye Ethan Nwaneri loan move to bolster attack
01:00 , Miguel DelaneyBournemouth are interested in Arsenal's Ethan Nwaneri, and open to a loan until the end of the season, but the 18-year-old’s preference is to stay until at least the end of the season.
The south-coast club are keen to reshape their attack amid the pending sale of Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City, and there has been a feeling that a temporary deal for Nwaneri might make sense for all parties since he has found himself sidelined for Arsenal.
Manuel Ugarte could be on brink of Man Utd exit
00:00 , Mike JonesMan United midfielder Manuel Ugarte could be about to leave Old Trafford on loan, with Ajax said to be considering a move.
A report in Dutch publication Voetbal International claims Ugarte is a “serious contender” as Ajax look to bolster their engine room.
However, Ugarte’s wages could be a sticking point with the Dutch giants needing to negotiate a compromise with United to make a deal happen.
Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City 'done'
23:33 , Will CastleAntoine Semenyo’s move to Manchester City is complete, according to Sky Sports.
His medical has been passed and the forward has signed a five-and-a-half-year contract.
City sign the winger for £62.5m after agreeing a deal outside of his £65m release clause, but Bournemouth could still make a further £1.5m in performance-related add-ons and will earn 10 percent of the profit if and when the former Premier League champions sell him.
An announcement is expected on Friday morning.
Tottenham still chasing Santos left-back
23:30 , Mike JonesTottenham are still chasing left-back Souza despite Santos rejecting their opening bid.
Spurs are thought to have had an £8m offer turned down by the Brazilian side but have come back with a £13m bid, according to The Standard, and the 19-year-old player is said to be keen on a move to the Premier League.
Thomas Frank’s side are keen to strengthen the left side of their defence – both left-back and left-sided centre-back – this month and Souza could fit the bill.
Vinicius Jr to Chelsea rumours rubbished
23:00 , Mike JonesThere were shock reports form Spain earlier this week that Chelsea were plotting a stunning £125m move for Real Madrid’s disgruntled Vinicius Jr.
However, Fabrizio Romano has quashed these claims and labelled them “completely wide of the mark”.
There have been no talks and no bid, with the Brazilian completely focussed on Real and his contract situation at the Bernabeu will be assessed in due course.
Yesterday, Real boss Xabi Alonso spoke of ensuring the forward was happy at the club, saying: “Vini Jr is going to be important. We need him at his best, enjoying himself on the pitch. When he does, he gives us that edge. We have to find him. He’s fundamental for us.”
Dortmund put off Oscar Bobb move
22:30 , Mike JonesOscar Bobb’s potential move from Man City to Borussia Dortmund has broken down.
Dortmund held talks over signing the Norwegian winger but, according to Bild, the €70m (£60m) package to secure his signature – once transfer fee, salary and agent fees are taken into account – has put them off.
Dortmund only have a budget of around €30m (£26m) so may wait until the summer to try again.
Crystal Palace want Genk full-back
22:00 , Mike JonesCrystal Palace are keen to sign right-back Zakaria El Ouahdi from Belgian side Genk, according to Sky Sports.
Palace were without a recognised right-back for Wednesday's match against Aston Villa as Daniel Munoz and Nathaniel Clyne missed out through injury, and Morocco international El Ouahdi could fill a hole.
Significant talks have yet to take place with Genk but the clubs have a decent relationship after the Eagles signed Munoz from them in 2024.
Chelsea and Man United target Maignan close to new deal
21:30 , Mike JonesBoth Chelsea and Man United have long been linked with a move for AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan but the 30-year-old French international is on the brink of signing a new deal at the San Siro.
That’s according to Sky Sports Italia, who are reporting that Maignan’s current deal expires at the end of June but he is now very close to inking a new contract until 2031 with the Rossoneri, which would end interest from the Premier League duo.
Casemiro to leave Man United and head back home?
21:00 , Mike JonesMan United midfielder Casemiro is being linked with a move back home to Brazil, with Palmeiras said to be interested.
According to reports in Brazil, the Sao Paulo-based club are happy to offer the 33-year-old a two-year contract.
Casemiro is out of contract in the summer and may favour a move back to the city he was born in, especially on a multi-year deal.
Rangers close in on two signings
20:45 , Will CastleRangers appear to be closing in on two transfers as they look to strengthen their squad for a title challenge.
The Light Blues are reported to have had a bid accepted for Westerlo left-back Tuur Rommens and are in talks with Sturm Graz over midfielder Tochi Chukwuani.
The combined value of the transfers could be about £7m.
Juventus cool interest in West Ham midfielder
20:30 , Mike JonesJuventus have parked talks with West Ham over Guido Rodriguez, reports Gazzetta dello Sport.
Instead, the Old Lady will target Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi, who will become a free agent this summer when his contract expires.
That would be a free transfer, while Luciano Spalletti has gone cold on Rodriguez, who was seen as a loan option this month, as he pushes to make Argentina’s World Cup squad with more game time than he is currently enjoying with the Hammers.
Oliver Glasner likes what he sees with new signing Brennan Johnson
20:15 , Will CastleOliver Glasner insists Crystal Palace's record signing Brennan Johnson is already beginning to make his presence felt at Selhurst Park.
Johnson completed his second appearance for the Eagles and his home debut in Wednesday night's goalless draw with Premier League title contenders Aston Villa.
"It was only his second game for us, but he showed why Crystal Palace made a huge effort to sign him," Glasner said.
"He was a constant threat and it was a very good home debut for him. He has shown in these two games that he will definitely help us in our attack.
"We haven't trained together and this was just the second game.
"Now we are going to Macclesfield for the FA Cup and the upcoming weeks of training will help him to understand his team-mates more and the way we are playing."
Liverpool and Man City face Marc Guehi blow
20:00 , Mike JonesCrystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has dealt a major blow to Liverpool and Man City by stating that much sought-after defender Marc Guehi will stay at Selhurst Park in this transfer window.
The Palace captain is into the final six months of his contract and came agonisingly close to joining Liverpool in the summer window before the deal fell through on deadline day.
The Reds remain interested in Guehi along with Man City, who are enduring a defensive injury crisis, but Glasner poured some cold water on their hopes.
“I think Marc will stay,” said Glasner after Crystal Palace’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa. “But if Marc says ‘I want to leave’, and a club pays massive money – with five months left of a contract – every player will leave if you’re playing for a club like Crystal Palace.
“I’m pretty sure our chairman will ask for a very high price for him and then let’s see. I don’t know if Marc wants to leave.
“Right now, when I see him playing, when I see him training, when I see his commitment and when we are talking quite often together, then I think the fans can be really be calm but you never know what will happen in football.”
Brentford under no pressure to let Igor Thiago go, says Keith Andrews
19:45 , Will CastleKeith Andrews says Brentford will be under no pressure to sell Igor Thiago this summer.
Brazilian striker Thiago is on the radar of a host of bigger clubs after scoring his 15th and 16th goals of the season in Wednesday's 3-0 win over Sunderland.
But the Bees do not need to cash in after selling Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa and Christian Norgaard for big money last summer.
"We're in a good place," said Andrews. "With the business we did in the summer, financially, we're certainly not in a rush to let Thiago go."
Arsenal in tug of war for Rennes wonderkid
19:30 , Mike JonesArsenal have reignited their summer interest in Jeremy Jacquet but face a tug of war if they want to sign the Rennes wonderkid.
The Gunners bolstered their backline with Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie over the summer but were strongly interested in Jacquet and TeamTalk are reporting that they’re still in the running to sign the 20-year-old centre-back.
However, they face a tug of war to get a deal done with Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid all said to be eyeing the youngster.
Jacquet has played 16 times for Rennes in Ligue 1 this season and signed a contract until 2029 back in May 2025 to ensure the club would get a good fee for him.
And offer between £25m and £35m may be enough to prise him away
Celtic plot Kyogo Furuhashi return
19:15 , Will CastleCeltic have been linked with a move to take Kyogo Furuhashi back to Glasgow after struggling to replace the striker for 12 months.
The Hoops are reported to be considering a loan move for the Japan international, who has toiled badly for goals with Birmingham this season.
The 30-year-old has only scored once in 25 matches for the Sky Bet Championship club since moving from Rennes, where he found game time hard to come by.
Celtic failed to bring in a striker after the reported £10m transfer last season and their recruitment of forwards in the summer has not reaped rewards.
Reports in Croatia also signalled Celtic were close to signing 22-year-old Canada and Hajduk Split midfielder Niko Sigur.
Arsenal told to stump up £86m for Yan Diomande
19:00 , Mike JonesArsenal will have to break the bank to sign highly sought-after RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande as they continue to consider a move, according to The Athletic.
The Gunners are reportedly monitoring the 19-year-old's situation, although any deal would need to take place in the summer, with the Bundesliga side unwilling to let him go this month.
Arsenal join north London rivals Tottenham and Manchester United in the race for the Ivorian, who has starred at Afcon.
Bournemouth eye Ethan Nwaneri loan move to bolster attack
18:46 , Mike JonesBournemouth are interested in Arsenal's Ethan Nwaneri, and open to a loan until the end of the season, but the 18-year-old’s preference is to stay in north London until at least the end of the campaign
The south-coast club are keen to reshape their attack amid the pending sale of Antoine Semenyo and there has been a feeling that a temporary deal for Nwaneri might make sense for all parties since he has found himself sidelined for Arsenal.
The Gunners do not want to sell the player due to his obvious talent, but do want to ensure he gets regular football.
Read the latest from Miguel Delaney:
Guardiola refuses to offer confirmation of Semenyo deal
18:32 , Mike JonesSemenyo had been expected to undergo a medical at Man City on Thursday after Pep Guardiola’s side met his £65m release clause but that may now be in doubt.
Certainly Guardiola was typically reticent to offer confirmation of an impending move after City’s 1-1 draw with Brighton.
Asked if City were poised to sign a winger, Guardiola said: “I don’t know. I don’t know what is going to happen in the transfer window.”
Liverpool provide late 'twist' in Antoine Semenyo saga
18:17 , Mike JonesAntoine Semenyo’s move to Manchester City looked to be all but signed, sealed and delivered, however Jamie Redknapp has suggested Liverpool will provide a late ‘twist’ in the saga.
There were reports that Semenyo had a medical booked with City but, speaking on Sky Sports after the forward grabbed a 95th-minute winner to seal a 3-2 win over Tottenham in his presumed final game for Bournemouth, Redknapp dropped a bombshell.
“Everyone thinks it's a foregone conclusion, I'm not so sure. I've heard there might be a little bit of a twist still...,” said Redknapp.
“I think Liverpool could still be in the equation... Why they haven't come in as strongly, I'm surprised because you look at that position with Mo Salah, how long he's going to be at the club for, we don't know. But if you've got a player of that quality, he's a match-winner, turns up in the big moments, why wouldn't you be in for him?!”
Forest target Ferguson
18:03 , Luke BakerNottingham Forest are desperate to bolster their attacking ranks during this window and the latest name to emerge as a target is Evan Ferguson.
The Irishman is on loan at Roma, and has scored five goals in 20 games in all competitions, but the Serie A side are aiming to sign two strikers themselves, which could send Ferguson back to the Premier League.
The 21-year-old would then look for another loan move and finds himself on a three-man striker shortlist for struggling Forest, alongside Jorgen Strand Larsen of Wolves and Napoli frontman Lorenzo Lucca.
Arsenal told to stump up £86m for Yan Diomande
17:38 , Luke BakerArsenal will have to break the bank to sign highly sought-after RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande as they continue to consider a move, according to The Athletic.
The Gunners are reportedly monitoring the 19-year-old's situation, although any deal would need to take place in the summer, with the Bundesliga side unwilling to let him go this month.
Arsenal join north London rivals Tottenham and Manchester United in the race for the Ivorian, who has starred at Afcon.
Arsenal in tug of war for Rennes wonderkid
17:16 , Luke BakerArsenal have reignited their summer interest in Jeremy Jacquet but face a tug of war if they want to sign the Rennes wonderkid.
The Gunners bolstered their backline with Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie over the summer but were strongly interested in Jacquet and TeamTalk are reporting that they’re still in the running to sign the 20-year-old centre-back.
However, they face a tug of war to get a deal done with Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid all said to be eyeing the youngster.
Jacquet has played 16 times for Rennes in Ligue 1 this season and signed a contract until 2029 back in May 2025 to ensure the club would get a good fee for him.
And offer between £25m and £35m may be enough to prise him away
Thomas Frank confirms Mohammed Kudus out until April in huge Tottenham injury blow
17:14 , Will CastleTottenham’s dwindling midfield options have taken a mammoth blow after Thomas Frank confirmed Mohammed Kudus will be sidelined until April with injury.
Kudus went down with a thigh injury in last weekend’s draw with Sunderland, with Frank revealing the problem involves a tendon in his quad and will therefore require a lengthy period of rehabilitation.
"Mohammed Kudus unfortunately is a bigger one to the tendon in the quad,” he said ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup tie with Aston Villa. “That is one where we expect him back after the March international break."
Frank also revealed that Rodrigo Bentancur’s hamstring “looks like a bigger one” and that Lucas Bergvall will be assessed ahead of the clash.
Could midfield injury woes force Frank’s side into the transfer market?
Thomas Frank confirms Mohammed Kudus out until April in huge Tottenham injury blow
Andoni Iraola backs Antoine Semenyo to succeed as he confirms Manchester City move
16:46 , Luke BakerBournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has backed Antoine Semenyo to thrive at Manchester City as he begins the difficult task of attempting to recruit an adequate replacement.
Semenyo bid a fitting farewell to the Cherries ahead of a proposed £62.5m move to City, scoring a dramatic added-time winner on his 26th birthday in Wednesday evening's thrilling 3-2 Premier League victory over Tottenham.
The Ghana international registered 32 goals and 13 assists in 110 Bournemouth appearances after arriving from Bristol City in 2023, having previously developed in the lower leagues during loan spells with Bath, Newport and Sunderland.
"He's a big miss for us, he's a player that you cannot replace," said Iraola. "He's an incredible player.
"I don't know how they (City) are going to use him. He's a player that has been improving every single season with us but even before (that), because he has gone through lower divisions, stepping up every single season, and I think he's ready to do it again. I hope he does it."
Andoni Iraola backs Antoine Semenyo to succeed as he confirms Manchester City move
West Ham set to miss out on Mingueza
16:25 , Luke BakerWest Ham looked as if they were about to seal an £8m deal for Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza but the Daily Mail are reporting that Aston Villa and Newcastle have now overtaken them in the race for the 26-year-old.
The lure of European football vs what increasingly looks like it will be Championship football next year is thought to be swaying the four-cap Spain international, who came through Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, in the direction of Villa Park or St James' Park.
Chelsea youngster Leo Castledine to join Middlesbrough
16:01 , Luke BakerThe first step in Chelsea reducing their bloated squad slightly? Leo Castledine will leave the Blues to join Middlesbrough permanently on a £1m deal.
The No 10 has been brilliant on loan at Huddersfield this term, bagging 12 goals and five assists in 27 games in all competitions, helping the Terriers to fourth spot in League One.
The AFC Wimbledon academy product will now get to prove himself in the second tier and Chelsea also have a substantial sell-on clause in the deal.
Man City youngster Emilio Lawrence set for Luton loan
15:39 , Luke BakerYoung Man City talent Emilio Lawrence will be heading out on loan to League One side Luton.
Ex-Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere is boss of the Hatters these days and will give the highly-rated 20-year-old forward his first taste of senior football.
Luton are currently eighth in League One, four points outside the play-offs as they try to seal an immediate return to the Premier League
Arsenal enter Marc Guehi race
15:19 , Luke BakerThe Marc Guehi transfer saga has taken another twist with Arsenal entering the race for the Crystal Palace captain.
The Mirror are reporting that the Gunners have a genuine interest in the 25-year-old, who becomes a free agent at the end of the season, although it is unclear if they will make a bid to try and prise him away from Palace now or wait until the summer.
Arsenal were interested last summer before signing Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia and Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen to fill their defensive holes but are still huge admirers.
Man City have become favourites to sign Guehi, amid a defensive injury crisis, but Liverpool and Bayern Munich at still well in the mix. Palace are holding firm with a high asking price however and, much like last summer, are happy to reject bids should they not meet their expectations even if that means losing the England international on a free.
Liverpool had a bid of £35m plus £5m in add-ons accepted last summer but were unable to get a deal over the line. Palace are thought to be willing to test City’s resolve by demanding at least £40m now.
Liverpool to sign centre-back - but it's not Guehi
15:04 , Luke BakerLiverpool are about to sign a centre-back but it’s not Marc Guehi...
Fabrizio Romano is reporting that Arne Slot’s side are on the cusp of getting a deal over the line for Mor Ndiaye, a Senegalese youth international who starred at the recent U17 World Cup in Qatar.
He will join from Amitie FC in his native Senegal and it follows the signing of fellow academy prospect Ifeane Ndukwe from Austria Wien.
🚨 Liverpool reach verbal agreement to sign left-sided CB Mor Ndiaye 🛑🇸🇳
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 8, 2026
Senegal defender has played at the recent U17 World Cup in Qatar; deal follows the signing of Ifeane Ndukwe from Austria Wien sealed last week.
Here we go. ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/okQtfzZaG4
Man City, Spurs and Newcastle all chase Franca
14:48 , Luke BakerRoma right-back Wesley Franca has three Premier League suitors as Man City, Tottenham and Newcastle all battle for his signature.
That’s according to TeamTalk, who also state that Roma are in no real rush to sell their 22-year-old asset, having signed him from Brazilian side Flamengo over the summer.
Franca has earned five Brazil caps over the past 12 months and has impressed at the Stadio Olimpico, alerting the three English clubs to the possibility of signing him.
John Stones' Man City future in doubt
14:35 , Luke BakerPep Guardiola has thrown John Stones’s Man City future into doubt, suggesting his injury issues may stop him from earning a new contract.
Stones’ current deal is up at the end of the season and a clearly frustrated Guardiola wasn’t ruling out the possibility of the England international leaving the Etihad Stadium.
The 31-year-old has barely played this term, battling a series of injuries including a current niggle that is stopping him from training and playing amid a defensive injury crisis.
“What happened in the last two seasons will define the decision at the end of the season,” explained Guardiola. “Right now, I don’t know when he will be back. I would like to know the answer but I don’t know.
“He didn’t train with us. He didn’t make training sessions, so it’s not like, ‘I’m ready, now I’ll play.’ There are few players who can play after one or two training sessions and the other ones need a little bit longer. John is one of those cases.”
Stones is the lone player still at Man City who played in Guardiola’s first game as boss back in 2016.
Juventus end hunt for new striker
14:20 , Jack RathbornJuventus have ended their search for a new striker after progress made by Dusan Vlahovic.
The Serbian will likely be back against Inter next month, reports Tuttosport.
Luciano Spalletti will switch up his January transfer market’s priorities, therefore, with a back-up to Weston McKennie at right wing-back seen as the priority.
Conor Gallagher to make Crystal Palace return?
13:44 , Luke BakerCrystal Palace are keen to bring one of their former players back to the club this month, in the form of Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher.
That’s according to Spanish outlet Fichajes, who are saying the engine-roomer is keen for more playing time ahead of the World Cup, as he looks to force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s plans.
Gallagher has been largely limited to a bench role under Diego Simeone so far this season but is still well regarded at Selhurst Park after a hugely successful loan spell in the 2021/22 campaign.
Barcelona confirm Cancelo move
13:33 , Jack RathbornBarcelona sporting director Deco has confirmed Joao Cancelo will join the Catalan giants soon.
"Hopefully so,” said the Portuguese. “We're finalizing the process. He hasn't had his medical yet.
“But he'll be flying to Barcelona soon . We're going to close the deal.”
Inter Milan had been keen on the Portuguese defender, but Barcelona will instead snap up the 31-year-old on loan until June from Al-Hilal.
Casemiro to leave Man United and head back home?
13:17 , Luke BakerMan United midfielder Casemiro is being linked with a move back home to Brazil, with Palmeiras said to be interested.
According to reports in Brazil, the Sao Paulo-based club are happy to offer the 33-year-old a two-year contract.
Casemiro is out of contract in the summer and may favour a move back to the city he was born in, especially on a multi-year deal.
Juventus cool interest in West Ham midfielder
13:03 , Jack RathbornJuventus have parked talks with West Ham over Guido Rodriguez, reports Gazzetta dello Sport.
Instead, the Old Lady will target Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi, who will become a free agent this summer when his contract expires.
That would be a free transfer, while Luciano Spalletti has gone cold on Rodriguez, who was seen as a loan option this month, as he pushes to make Argentina’s World Cup squad with more game time than he is currently enjoying with the Hammers.
ICYMI: Bournemouth eye Ethan Nwaneri loan move to bolster attack
12:46 , Luke BakerIf you missed it earlier, one from our Chief Football Writer, Miguel Delaney, that Bournemouth are interested in Arsenal's Ethan Nwaneri, and open to a loan until the end of the season.
However, the 18-year-old’s preference is to stay in north London until at least the end of the campaign
The south-coast club are keen to reshape their attack amid the pending sale of Antoine Semenyo and there has been a feeling that a temporary deal for Nwaneri might make sense for all parties since he has found himself sidelined for Arsenal.
The Gunners do not want to sell the player due to his obvious talent, but do want to ensure he gets regular football, although a loan is nevertheless seen by those close to Nwaneri as unlikely, given the player feels he can learn more as part of a serious title challenge.
Read the latest from Miguel here:
Liverpool ready huge £87m bid for Bradley Barcola amid Man United interest
12:29 , Luke BakerThis could be huge news. French newspaper L’Equipe are reporting that Bradley Barcola is ready to leave PSG, with Liverpool and Man United desperate to sign him.
The 18-cap France international is just 23 years old and had 42 goal involvements last season as PSG finally won the Champions League.
Liverpool are missing out on Antoine Semenyo to Man City and are reported to be preparing an £87m bid for Barcola instead. They’ll face competition from bitter rivals Man United, who want to sort their managerial situation out first but will then enter the fray properly.
It has been suggested that Marcus Rashford, who is currently on loan at Barcelona but has previously been linked with PSG, would be offered as a makeweight in the deal by United. Regardless, this is likely a deal for the summer rather than January.
Chelsea and Man United target Maignan close to new deal
12:19 , Luke BakerBoth Chelsea and Man United have long been linked with a move for AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan but the 30-year-old French international is on the brink of signing a new deal at the San Siro.
That’s according to Sky Sports Italia, who are reporting that Maignan’s current deal expires at the end of June but he is now very close to inking a new contract until 2031 with the Rossoneri, which would end interest from the Premier League duo.
Man City agree Antoine Semenyo fee below Bournemouth release clause
12:01 , Richard JollyAntoine Semenyo is set to join Manchester City after they struck a £62.5m deal with Bournemouth, rather than activating his release clause.
The release clause was thought to be worth £65m, but City will pay slightly less over the next two years, while Bournemouth could make a further £1.5m in performance-related add-ons and will earn 10 percent of the profit if and when the former Premier League champions sell him.
Semenyo will undergo a medical in Manchester and is expected to sign a five-and-a-half-year contract with City. Read the full story here:
Man City agree Antoine Semenyo fee below Bournemouth release clause
AC Milan target two Premier League defenders
11:44 , Luke BakerItalian giants AC Milan are looking to bolster their defensive ranks and are eyeing a pair of Premier League defenders.
They were trying to sign Nathan Ake but due to Man City’s injury crisis, they have now cooled on the Dutchman.
Instead they are targeting Liverpool’s Joe Gomez and Nottingham Forest star Murillo to fill the hole. Bayern Munich star Kim Min-jae is also on the club's shortlist but the Premier League duo are certainly attracting interest.
Joshua Zirkzee's hopes of Man United exit scuppered
11:32 , Luke BakerJoshua Zirkzee is keen to leave Manchester United this month in order to nail down a spot in the Netherlands’ World Cup squad next summer but one of his potential destinations looks to have been taken off the table.
Roma were thought to be interested in Zirkzee but they are now on the brink of signing Giacomo Raspadori from Atletico Madrid on loan.
According to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma and Atleti have agreed an initial half-season loan deal, including an option to buy, with personal terms now being discussed. It is unlikely the Serie A side would then also look to add Zirkzee, who has scored twice in 15 games for Man United this term.
Mikel Arteta provides injury updates on Calafiori, Mosquera and Havertz ahead of Liverpool test
11:20 , Luke BakerThere’s one Premier League game this evening and it’s a big ‘un, as leaders Arsenal host Liverpool.
Mikel Arteta has confirmed Arsenal’s defensive options will remain limited with Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori still ruled out.
Mosquera picked up an ankle injury in December that Arteta said would keep the Colombian out for “weeks”, while Calafiori sustained a “very awkward” injury in the build-up to the visit of Brighton.
Neither were expected to feature against Liverpool but Arteta did note that the pair are closing in on a return, should nothing go wrong in their final stage of rehabilitation.
Arteta confirms double Arsenal injury blow ahead of Liverpool test
Arsenal chase another young gun
11:04 , Luke BakerNot only are Arsenal chasing one wonderkid, in Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, but they’re edging closer to signing another in the form of Blackburn’s teenage forward Igor Tyjon.
The England under-18s star has rejected a new contract at Ewood Park and the Gunners are leading the chase for his signature, with the fee expected to be around £1m.
DONE DEAL: Nottingham Forest striker head to Eintracht Frankfurt
10:47 , Luke BakerSpeaking of Nottingham Forest strikers, there’s an opening in their attack as Arnaud Kalimuendo has joined Eintracht Frankfurt on loan.
The French centre-forward has joined Frankfurt until the end of the season, with an option to make the make the move permanent after that.
The 23-year-old Kalimuendo joined Forest from Rennes in the summer and has scored two goals in 15 appearances in all competitions – both of those coming in the Europa League, against Malmo and Utrecht.
Arnaud Kalimuendo joins Eintracht! 🦅
— Eintracht Frankfurt (@eintrachtint) January 7, 2026
The French centre-forward arrives at Frankfurt on loan from English Premier League side @NFFC, with the Eagles possessing an option to make the move permanent at the end of the season.
ℹ️ More info: https://t.co/JPnWsUbapq#SGE pic.twitter.com/s9Lnm3nzPy
Forest keen to bolster striker ranks with Napoli man
10:33 , Luke BakerNottingham Forest are thought to be in the thick of the Jorgen Strand Larsen race but have also contacted Napoli to ask about the availability of Lorenzo Lucca, according to Sky Sports Italy.
Lucca joined Napoli from Udinese in the summer and has struggled for game time, contributing just two goals in 20 games. Roma and Benfica are also potential destinations.
Semenyo to complete Man City move today
10:19 , Luke BakerAntoine Semenyo is in Manchester for his Man City medical this morning and appears to set to complete his move from Bournemouth today, on a contract until 2031.
Jamie Redknapp threw a spanner in the works last night by saying that Liverpool would provide a late twist in the saga but that appears to be wide of the mark.
David Ornstein of The Athletic reports that the deal is an initial £62.5m, plus a further £1.5m in bonuses, to be paid over two years, and then 10 per cent of profits from any future sale going to the Cherries as well.
Fabrizio Romano is also in with his usual three-word confirmation phrase, so it’s all systems go.
🚨💙 Antoine Semenyo day at Manchester City as expected with medical tests underway.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 8, 2026
After saying goodbye to Bournemouth, he will now complete his medical and sign deal until June 2031.
All signed between clubs already 3 days ago.
Here we go, confirmed. ✍🏼 pic.twitter.com/AAL3xXStXA
Dortmund put off Oscar Bobb move
10:04 , Luke BakerOscar Bobb’s potential move from Man City to Borussia Dortmund has broken down.
Dortmund held talks over signing the Norwegian winger but, according to Bild, the €70m (£60m) package to secure his signature – once transfer fee, salary and agent fees are taken into account – has put them off.
Dortmund only have a budget of around €30m (£26m) so may wait until the summer to try again.
Manuel Ugarte could be on brink of Man Utd exit
09:52 , Luke BakerMan United midfielder Manuel Ugarte could be about to leave Old Trafford on loan, with Ajax said to be considering a move.
A report in Dutch publication Voetbal International claims Ugarte is a “serious contender” as Ajax look to bolster their engine room.
However, Ugarte’s wages could be a sticking point with the Dutch giants needing to negotiate a compromise with United to make a deal happen.
Crystal Palace want Genk full-back
09:37 , Luke BakerCrystal Palace are keen to sign right-back Zakaria El Ouahdi from Belgian side Genk, according to Sky Sports.
Palace were without a recognised right-back for Wednesday's match against Aston Villa as Daniel Munoz and Nathaniel Clyne missed out through injury, and Morocco international El Ouahdi could fill a hole.
Significant talks have yet to take place with Genk but the clubs have a decent relationship after the Eagles signed Munoz from them in 2024.
Tottenham still chasing Santos left-back
09:25 , Luke BakerTottenham are still chasing left-back Souza despite Santos rejecting their opening bid.
Spurs are thought to have had an £8m offer turned down by the Brazilian side but have come back with a £13m bid, according to The Standard, and the 19-year-old player is said to be keen on a move to the Premier League.
Thomas Frank’s side are keen to strengthen the left side of their defence – both left-back and left-sided centre-back – this month and Souza could fit the bill.
Vinicius Jr to Chelsea rumours rubbished
09:14 , Luke BakerThere were shock reports form Spain earlier this week that Chelsea were plotting a stunning £125m move for Real Madrid’s disgruntled Vinicius Jr.
However, Fabrizio Romano has quashed these claims and labelled them “completely wide of the mark”.
There have been no talks and no bid, with the Brazilian completely focussed on Real and his contract situation at the Bernabeu will be assessed in due course.
Yesterday, Real boss Xabi Alonso spoke of ensuring the forward was happy at the club, saying: “Vini Jr is going to be important. We need him at his best, enjoying himself on the pitch. When he does, he gives us that edge. We have to find him. He’s fundamental for us.”
Arsenal set for bonus windfall
09:01 , Luke BakerArsenal could be in line for a bonus transfer windfall this month with former defender Nuno Tavares potentially leaving Lazio
Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport are reporting that the 25-year-old has been linked with a possible exit just a few months since joining the Serie A side permanently.
Tavares had loan spells with Marseille, Nottingham Forest and Lazio themselves before joining the latter permanently from Arsenal last summer and the Gunners are thought to have included a 25 per cent sell-on clause in his deal, which could provide a boost to their transfer kitty should the Portuguese international indeed leave the Stadio Olimpico this month
Crystal Palace ready to enter race for Jorgen Strand Larsen
08:43 , Luke BakerCrystal Palace are willing to rival West Ham and Nottingham Forest for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, according to the Daily Mail.
Wolves rejected a £60m bid for the Norwegian in the summer from Newcastle, a fact that may prove to be a stumbling block, though his value will be thought to have dropped after a poor first half of the season to around the £40m mark – a price that is still putting off West Ham but Forest are said to be more amenable to.
Raheem Sterling could be a last resort in attack if Palace fail to sign other targets.
Liverpool and Tottenham join Carlos Baleba race
08:31 , Luke BakerLiverpool and Tottenham have joined Manchester United in the race for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, according to TeamTalk.
The two Premier League sides are believed to be the latest sides keeping tabs on the 22-year-old, who was heavily linked with a move to the Red Devils in the summer.
However, a realistic move may need to wait until the summer, with the Seagulls unlikely to consider any offers below £80m.
Semenyo set for Man City medical this morning
08:19 , Luke BakerDespite Jamie Redknapp suggesting Liverpool will provide a late twist in the Antoine Semenyo saga, Sky Sports are reporting that the Bournemouth winger will begin his medical with Man City this morning.
Semenyo arrived in Manchester overnight following his late winner against Spurs and the final steps of his £65m move may be about to be completed.
Liverpool and Man City face Marc Guehi blow
08:15 , Luke BakerCrystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has dealt a major blow to Liverpool and Man City by stating that much sought-after defender Marc Guehi will stay at Selhurst Park in this transfer window.
The Palace captain is into the final six months of his contract and came agonisingly close to joining Liverpool in the summer window before the deal fell through on deadline day.
The Reds remain interested in Guehi along with Man City, who are enduring a defensive injury crisis, but Glasner poured some cold water on their hopes.
“I think Marc will stay,” said Glasner after Crystal Palace’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa. “But if Marc says ‘I want to leave’, and a club pays massive money – with five months left of a contract – every player will leave if you’re playing for a club like Crystal Palace.
“I’m pretty sure our chairman will ask for a very high price for him and then let’s see. I don’t know if Marc wants to leave.
“Right now, when I see him playing, when I see him training, when I see his commitment and when we are talking quite often together, then I think the fans can be really be calm but you never know what will happen in football.”
Arsenal in tug of war for Rennes wonderkid
08:07 , Luke BakerArsenal have reignited their summer interest in Jeremy Jacquet but face a tug of war if they want to sign the Rennes wonderkid.
The Gunners bolstered their backline with Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie over the summer but were strongly interested in Jacquet and TeamTalk are reporting that they’re still in the running to sign the 20-year-old centre-back.
However, they face a tug of war to get a deal done with Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid all said to be eyeing the youngster.
Jacquet has played 16 times for Rennes in Ligue 1 this season and signed a contract until 2029 back in May 2025 to ensure the club would get a good fee for him.
And offer between £25m and £35m may be enough to prise him away
Arsenal told to stump up £86m for Yan Diomande
08:02 , Luke BakerArsenal will have to break the bank to sign highly sought-after RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande as they continue to consider a move, according to The Athletic.
The Gunners are reportedly monitoring the 19-year-old's situation, although any deal would need to take place in the summer, with the Bundesliga side unwilling to let him go this month.
Arsenal join north London rivals Tottenham and Manchester United in the race for the Ivorian, who has starred at Afcon.
Bournemouth eye Ethan Nwaneri loan move to bolster attack
07:49 , Miguel Delaney, Chief Football WriterBournemouth are interested in Arsenal's Ethan Nwaneri, and open to a loan until the end of the season, but the 18-year-old’s preference is to stay in north London until at least the end of the campaign
The south-coast club are keen to reshape their attack amid the pending sale of Antoine Semenyo and there has been a feeling that a temporary deal for Nwaneri might make sense for all parties since he has found himself sidelined for Arsenal.
The Gunners do not want to sell the player due to his obvious talent, but do want to ensure he gets regular football.
Read the latest from Miguel Delaney:
Guardiola refuses to offer confirmation of Semenyo deal
07:47 , Luke BakerSemenyo had been expected to undergo a medical at Man City on Thursday after Pep Guardiola’s side met his £65m release clause but that may now be in doubt.
Certainly Guardiola was typically reticent to offer confirmation of an impending move after City’s 1-1 draw with Brighton.
Asked if City were poised to sign a winger, Guardiola said: “I don’t know. I don’t know what is going to happen in the transfer window.”
Liverpool provide late 'twist' in Antoine Semenyo saga
07:45 , Luke BakerAntoine Semenyo’s move to Manchester City looked to be all but signed, sealed and delivered, however Jamie Redknapp has suggested Liverpool will provide a late ‘twist’ in the saga.
There were reports that Semenyo had a medical booked with City but, speaking on Sky Sports after the forward grabbed a 95th-minute winner to seal a 3-2 win over Tottenham in his presumed final game for Bournemouth, Redknapp dropped a bombshell.
“Everyone thinks it's a foregone conclusion, I'm not so sure. I've heard there might be a little bit of a twist still...,” said Redknapp.
“I think Liverpool could still be in the equation... Why they haven't come in as strongly, I'm surprised because you look at that position with Mo Salah, how long he's going to be at the club for, we don't know. But if you've got a player of that quality, he's a match-winner, turns up in the big moments, why wouldn't you be in for him?!
“So I'm not saying it's a Sky Sports breaking news moment, but all I'm saying is I've heard tonight it might not be the foregone conclusion everyone's talking about and that he's going to be having a medical at ManCity. There might still be a little twist. I hope so!”
January transfer window latest updates
07:40 , Luke BakerGood morning all - welcome to The Independent’s latest transfer updates. There’s plenty going on today, so let’s get to it
