The January transfer window is never the ideal time to do business, but that rarely stops clubs around the world from seeking reinforcements.
The winter market tends to reveal desperation, and that often leads to a bloodbath where logic is replaced by overexcitement among Europe’s rich elite. Just because you may Spending £70m on a new centre-forward doesn’t mean it’s you should.
January often produces some of the most bizarre and intriguing transfer rumors, most of which never come true. However, that doesn’t stop followers from believing in the fantasy and holding on to hope that even the wildest dreams sometimes come true.
Here are the six most exciting transfer rumors that have emerged in the last week – both the credible and the less credible.
Although Chelsea already have a number of wingers, they are reportedly interested in adding more wingers to their squad in January. The Blues have been linked with Bundesliga duo Jamie Gittens and Mathys Tel from Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich respectively, but the most telling rumor from last week is that they are keen to sign Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United.
The 20-year-old’s future at Old Trafford appears increasingly uncertain after an underwhelming start under Ruben Amorim and Chelsea, who have also been linked with Garnacho’s teammate Kobbie Mainoo, appear keen to take advantage. However, it is worth noting that Man Utd do not want to sell the impressive youngster and would probably only consider a mammoth offer – especially from a Premier League rival.
Ruben Amorim has previously worked with Paris Saint-Germain star Nuno Mendes, taking charge of the defender 47 times during their time together at Sporting CP. With Man Utd looking for a new left-back, the 22-year-old has unsurprisingly been linked with a reunion with his former coach and compatriot.
Early reports suggested that Mendes was interested in moving to Old Trafford in January, but subsequent rumors revealed that the youngster could sign a new contract with PSG instead. It would be a major coup if Man Utd could pull off such a move, even if it now seems unlikely.
It’s no secret that Real Madrid are in the market for defensive reinforcements and despite a number of injuries to key players, the reigning Spanish and European champions are unlikely to strengthen their ranks in the January window. The new additions will arrive this summer as they look for cover in the back four.
While Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alphonso Davies are full-back targets, it appears Arsenal star William Saliba could be their preferred centre-back option. According to recent reports, Madrid have already made contact with the Frenchman’s representatives but will undoubtedly require a gigantic transfer fee to move him away from the Emirates Stadium.
Much of the transfer discourse last summer revolved around Martin Zubimendi. The Euro 2024 winner was targeted by Liverpool but rejected a move to Anfield after already rebuffing approaches from Barcelona and Arsenal. He decided to stay in San Sebastian at youth club Real Sociedad.
However, Arsenal have reportedly ‘virtually completed’ a deal for the deep-lying midfielder, with his £51m release clause set to come into effect over the summer. Zubimendi is now ready to leave Real Sociedad and joining compatriot Mikel Arteta and former clubmate Mikel Merino appears to be too good an offer to refuse.
With Kyle Walker expected to leave Manchester City in January, the reigning Premier League champions need to focus on replacements. The long-serving right-back has struggled this season but he still has big shoes to fill as the Cityzens may have identified their main target.
Juventus defender Andrea Cambiaso could soon be the subject of a £54.7million bid from Man City, according to reports, with the 24-year-old seen as the dream heir to Walker’s throne. The versatile full-back has impressed in Turin over the last two seasons, providing three goals and six assists in all competitions in the 2023/24 season.
Saudi Arabia’s interest in Mohamed Salah is nothing new and Liverpool’s Egyptian king is once again being linked with a move to the Middle East. With Neymar expected to leave Al Hilal in the near future, the reigning Saudi Pro League champions are preparing a “lucrative contract” for Salah as they hope to secure his signing this summer.
Liverpool’s tireless winger’s current contract at Anfield expires at the end of the current season and the 32-year-old is yet to negotiate terms for an extension. Taking advantage of the uncertainty over his Reds’ future, Al Hilal was ultimately able to lure Salah away from Merseyside with the promise of a staggering salary.