The January transfer window is officially open, sparking a flurry of activity and speculation across English and European football. Clubs are moving swiftly to strengthen their squads, with loan deals and permanent transfers being discussed at a rapid pace.
Premier League Stars in Demand
Aston Villa winger Donyell Malen has emerged as a key target for Italian giants AS Roma. The Serie A side are keen to secure the 26-year-old Dutch international on an initial loan deal, with an option to make the move permanent for a fee of £21 million. Villa only signed Malen from Borussia Dortmund for a similar figure last year.
This potential move is complicated by existing agreements between the clubs. Roma currently have Villa's Leon Bailey on loan, and there have been talks about potentially cutting that arrangement short. Furthermore, the clubs are expected to discuss the future of striker Tammy Abraham, who is a target for Villa but is currently on loan at Besiktas, who hold an option to buy.
In another surprising development, West Ham United have registered interest in former Tottenham defender Eric Dier this winter. The England international's future is now a topic of significant discussion.
Defensive Reinforcements Sought Across Europe
The search for solidity at the back is driving several negotiations. French club AS Monaco have made a formal approach to sign Leicester City defender Wout Faes. They propose a loan deal with an option to buy for the Belgian international, who has been omitted from the Foxes' squad recently as they seek a sale.
This interest from Monaco comes amid West Ham's curious pursuit of their former Spurs centre-back, Eric Dier. Meanwhile, in the Bundesliga, VfL Wolfsburg are preparing an offer for Brentford defender Kristoffer Ajer. Wolfsburg's defence was breached eight times by Bayern Munich at the weekend, prompting an urgent search for reinforcements.
Championship and European Moves
The activity isn't confined to Europe's top leagues. Bournemouth have enquired about Ferencvaros and Hungary midfielder Alex Toth. The 20-year-old talent is also attracting attention from Serie A's Lazio.
In the Championship, Birmingham City are in advanced talks to sign Colombian midfielder Jhon Salis from La Liga's Girona. The deal would be an initial loan, with an option to buy for £6.8 million if he reaches a certain number of appearances.
Finally, Wigan Athletic, buoyed by their FA Cup third-round victory over Preston North End, have made a move for Accrington Stanley defender Benn Ward as they look to bolster their squad for the second half of the season.
