The January 2026 transfer window is beginning to simmer, with a major twist emerging in the future of West Ham United's Brazilian playmaker, Lucas Paquetá. Despite his stated desire to leave the Premier League, a surprise move to Chelsea could now be on the cards.
Paquetá's Premier League Future in the Balance
New Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior, yet to make a signing in his first week, is reportedly considering a move for the midfielder. This comes after Paquetá expressed disillusionment with English football following the now-dismissed spot-fixing allegations against him, publicly stating a wish to return to Brazil with Flamengo.
However, Brazilian journalist Renan Moura reports that the player's entourage is attempting to persuade him to remain in Europe, opening the door for a potential switch to Stamford Bridge.
Defensive Battle for Guéhi and Midfield Moves
Elsewhere, a fierce battle is developing for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi. With his contract entering its final six months, long-term admirers Liverpool and Manchester City are now facing competition from an unexpected quarter.
Bayern Munich's sporting director, Max Erbl, has held talks with Guéhi's agent at the German club's training ground, according to Sky Italia, with Arsenal also maintaining an interest.
Manchester City have also made contact with Nottingham Forest regarding a summer move for England midfielder Elliot Anderson. Forest, in turn, are targeting Bournemouth's Marcus Tavernier, though the Cherries insist he is not for sale. Forest's search also includes Fenerbahce striker Youssef En-Nesyri, but they face competition from Everton, and retain interest in Wolves forward Jørgen Strand Larsen.
Other Premier League and European Moves
Bournemouth are leading the race for Ferencvaros's 20-year-old Hungarian defensive midfielder Alex Toth, ahead of Lazio. In Yorkshire, Leeds winger Jack Harrison is close to a move to Fiorentina, either on loan or permanently, with Newcastle and Tottenham also monitoring the situation.
Sunderland are seeking attacking reinforcements, with Roma's Artem Dovbryk offered to them and Tammy Abraham linked, though Aston Villa are frontrunners for the latter. Middlesbrough aim to boost their promotion push with a permanent move for Brighton's Jeremy Sarmiento.
In the Women's Super League, France international Delphine Cascarino is being linked with a move to London City Lions from San Diego Wave, potentially reuniting with owner Michele Kang.
