The January transfer window is heating up with a major defensive saga potentially brewing in the Premier League. Reports suggest Liverpool are considering a significant move for Tottenham Hotspur's Dutch defender, Micky van de Ven, as they look to bolster their back line.
Big Money Moves Dominate Headlines
According to widespread whispers over the weekend, Liverpool's hierarchy is preparing a substantial offer in the region of £78 million to prise Van de Ven away from North London. The 23-year-old centre-back has been a standout since his arrival at Spurs, but with Thomas Frank's side struggling with injuries and poor form, a summer exit is now being seriously mooted. In a potential reciprocal move, Tottenham have registered interest in Liverpool's midfielder Curtis Jones, which could see negotiations develop between the two clubs.
Elsewhere, Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus has been linked with a sentimental return to Brazilian club Palmeiras, where he began his career. The striker, however, has publicly stated his desire to secure a new contract with the current Premier League leaders. His future may be decided in the summer if not this month. Arsenal are also showing 'genuine interest' in Inter Milan's Italian full-back Federico Dimarco, as reported by Tuttosport, with his San Siro contract expiring in June 2026.
Midfield Reinforcements and Championship Ambitions
Manchester United are actively seeking to strengthen their engine room. The Daily Star reports that the Red Devils are sniffing around Barcelona's young midfielder Marc Casadó and are also keen on Sunderland's 20-year-old talent Noah Sadiki. A potential swap deal involving United's Manuel Ugarte moving to the Stadium of Light has been suggested as a possibility to facilitate a move.
In the Championship, promotion-chasing Leeds United are said to be preparing a £20 million bid for Republic of Ireland forward Troy Parrott, who has been excelling in the Eredivisie with AZ Alkmaar. A deal for Parrott could accelerate the departure of Joël Piroe from Elland Road, with Celtic reportedly interested. Speaking of Celtic, they face a battle to retain Belgian midfielder Arne Engels, who is on the radar of RB Leipzig.
European Clubs on the Prowl
Barcelona, reeling from a defeat to Real Sociedad, have identified their opponent's goalkeeper, Álex Remiro, as a primary target. With Remiro entering the final year of his contract this summer, Barça believe they could secure him for around €10 million. This would likely see long-serving keeper Marc-André ter Stegen depart on loan to Girona. Barcelona and Juventus have also shown interest in Bournemouth's Argentinian defender Marcos Senesi, but the Cherries are determined to keep him despite his contract expiring in the summer.
Finally, Ipswich Town are looking to strengthen their promotion push with a move for Bristol City's Albanian international attacking midfielder Anis Mehmeti. With his contract at Ashton Gate running out this summer, persistent interest from Portman Road could see him move in this window.
