Transfer Deadline Drama: Liverpool, Chelsea Battle for Jacquet as Arsenal Eye Alvarez
The final week of the January transfer window is upon us, with Premier League clubs scrambling to make last-minute additions before the business end of the season kicks into high gear. As the deadline looms, a flurry of activity and speculation is dominating headlines across the football world.
Chelsea, Liverpool and Bayern Munich in Summer Tussle for Jacquet
Chelsea had appeared to be accelerating plans to sign Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet this month, but those efforts have now stalled. Instead, negotiations are shifting towards a potential summer deal, with Liverpool and Bayern Munich reportedly joining the Blues in the race for the talented French defender.
The 20-year-old has already featured for the France Under-21s and made 17 appearances in Ligue 1 this season, establishing himself as one of Europe's most promising defensive prospects. Fabrizio Romano's reports confirm that all three clubs are now in discussions over a summer move, setting the stage for a potentially fierce bidding war when the window reopens.
Arsenal Plot Major Move for 'Unhappy' Alvarez
Premier League leaders Arsenal are plotting a significant bid for Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez, following Ethan Nwaneri's completed loan move to Marseille. The Gunners' interest comes as Gary Lineker revealed on the Rest is Football podcast that Alvarez is "not entirely happy with life at Atletico."
Lineker emphasised the Argentine's pedigree, noting: "He's a World Cup winner for crying out loud. Someone like that at Arsenal would be game over." The forward has scored 40 goals in 86 games for the Spanish side, and ESPN reports that Atletico would demand a fee in excess of €100 million for his services. Both Barcelona and Chelsea are also said to be tracking the Argentina international, adding further competition for his signature.
West Ham Agree Paqueta Deal as Relegation Fears Loom
In a significant development, West Ham United have verbally agreed a deal with Flamengo for the transfer of Lucas Paqueta. The £35.8 million move is expected to be formalised within the next 24 hours, with the Brazilian midfielder set to return to his home country immediately.
Sky Sports reports that Paqueta had been keen to leave England, and his departure represents a substantial blow to West Ham's survival hopes. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo had previously described Paqueta as the club's best player, making this exit particularly concerning for a team battling to avoid relegation.
Manchester United Identify Four Potential Casemiro Replacements
With Casemiro's exit confirmed for the end of the season, Manchester United have drawn up a four-man shortlist to strengthen their midfield this summer. According to The Sun, the club are targeting Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, Brighton's Carlos Baleba, and Bournemouth's Alex Scott.
All four players have been previously linked with moves to Old Trafford, and United's chances of securing their services could improve significantly if Michael Carrick can guide the team to Champions League qualification this season.
Tottenham's Robertson Swoop Blocked by Liverpool
Tottenham Hotspur appeared poised for a shock move for Liverpool stalwart Andy Robertson, whose contract expires at the end of the season. However, the Reds have blocked any premature exit for the 31-year-old left-back, citing their need for his services during the remainder of the campaign.
Robertson has lost his starting place to Milos Kerkez this season, but Liverpool remain determined to retain his experience as they push for silverware. Meanwhile, reports suggest Manchester City could target former Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold in the future, though the England international remains determined to fight for his place at Real Madrid despite early struggles in Spain.
As the transfer window enters its decisive final days, clubs across the Premier League are weighing their options carefully. From defensive reinforcements to attacking firepower, the coming hours promise further drama and potentially game-changing moves that could shape the remainder of the season.
