Arsenal are expected to launch a bid for Bournemouth youngster Eli Junior Kroupi, while Chelsea have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Nico Paz, and Manchester United have decided to stick with manager Michael Carrick for the time being. These are the latest developments as clubs prepare for the January transfer window, which opens in a little over two months.
Arsenal's Kroupi bid and Alvarez setback
Arsenal are expected to make a move for Bournemouth's Eli Junior Kroupi, but their hopes of reigniting a pursuit of Julian Alvarez appear dead. Atletico Madrid has reportedly made its position clear to Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and the striker himself, according to reports in Spain.
Mikel Arteta's side explored a move for the Argentine forward during the summer and remained in contact with his representatives after the window closed. However, Alvarez had previously favoured a switch to Barcelona, while Atletico refused to negotiate with their La Liga rivals. Alvarez is under contract at Atletico until 2030 and has recently apologised to the club's supporters following the transfer controversy.
Chelsea's Nico Paz setback and Scott pursuit
Chelsea have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Nico Paz, with Como unwilling to sell the attacking midfielder during the January transfer window. According to TEAMtalk, Como consider Paz central to Cesc Fabregas' plans and have no intention of allowing him to leave midway through the season.
Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso is reportedly a major admirer, while Arsenal and Manchester United have also been linked with the Argentina international. Real Madrid could further complicate matters, having retained an €80 million buy-back option for summer 2027.
Chelsea have full focus on a deal for Alex Scott, with Bournemouth reportedly demanding more than £100 million for the player. Bournemouth owner Bill Foley insists the club "haven't given up" trying to convince Scott to sign a new contract. He told TalkSport: "At this point, we're convinced we're the right place for Alex to be and to stay, and we'll keep on addressing the contract issues with Alex as we move through this year. We'd love to have Alex stay here."
Manchester United's Carrick U-turn
Manchester United have decided to stick with beleaguered manager Michael Carrick for the time being, in a surprise U-turn after strong sack talks, with the main reason said to be financial. Carrick appeared on the brink of being dismissed following Sunday's 3-0 loss at home to Bournemouth, which had come just days after a 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League.
However, Man Utd chiefs decided to give Carrick more time in his role, with the former midfielder set to take charge of the side for this weekend's trip to Chelsea. At full-time on Sunday after the Bournemouth game, Man Utd fans targeted their boos towards their players, rather than Carrick. BBC Sport quote an unnamed player, who said: "The feeling is that we all want to put it right. Players, staff, everyone."
Gary Neville says he is happy with Manchester United's surprise Carrick decision, despite his prediction backfiring. With United winless in their last eight games across all competitions, Carrick has come under intense scrutiny as the likes of Eddie Howe, Julian Nagelsmann and Antonio Conte have been touted as potential replacements.
Other transfer news and updates
Tottenham will look to sign a new striker in January, with Junior Kroupi their dream target, as they field interest in outcast Richarlison. Liverpool are also pursuing Scott, and have ruled out an exit for £116m man Florian Wirtz.
Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City have been dealt a setback in their pursuit of Desire Doue, with Paris Saint-Germain making progress in contract negotiations with the winger. Bayern Munich are also monitoring the 21-year-old France international. According to TEAMtalk, PSG are advancing in talks over a new deal for Doue as they look to secure his long-term future beyond 2029.
Arsenal have been dealt a setback in their pursuit of Nicolo Tresoldi, with Club Brugge reportedly ruling out a January departure for the in-demand striker. According to reports cited by Metro, Club Brugge have no intention of selling Tresoldi during the winter transfer window, regardless of the offers they receive. Club Brugge would prefer to retain Tresoldi until the end of the season, with a possible high-profile transfer more likely to be considered next summer.
Ahead of this weekend's Premier League clash against Chelsea, it has been revealed that Joao Pedro will be sidelined through injury. The Brazilian missed the corresponding fixture last season which United won 1-0.
