The Premier League's January transfer window has burst into life with a major managerial departure and a series of high-profile moves taking shape. Chelsea have sensationally parted ways with manager Enzo Maresca after just 18 months in charge, casting immediate uncertainty over the club's direction as they battle for a top-four finish.
Manchester City Lead Race for Semenyo
On the player front, the saga surrounding Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo appears to be reaching its conclusion. Manchester City are now firmly in the driving seat to secure the Ghana international's signature for a fee of £65 million, which represents his release clause. The clause, active since the window opened, is reported to expire on 10 January 2026, turning the negotiation into a race against time.
Pep Guardiola is keen to make the 25-year-old his first acquisition of the new year, though Liverpool retain a reported interest. The Reds must decide quickly whether to match City's financial commitment to trigger the clause themselves.
Liverpool Poised for Defensive Reinforcement
Jurgen Klopp's side are also active elsewhere, with reports indicating they are closing in on a deal for Club Brugge centre-back Joel Ordonez. The Ecuadorian defender, who has impressed in Belgium, is now a primary target for Liverpool after Chelsea reportedly withdrew from the race.
The proposed deal could be worth up to £43 million, structured as an initial £35 million fee with additional performance-related add-ons. His arrival would provide a significant boost to the Reds' defensive options for the second half of the season.
Other Moves Taking Shape
The transfer activity extends beyond the title contenders. Tottenham's Europa League-winning forward Brennan Johnson is nearing a £35 million switch to Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, Palace captain Marc Guehi, whose deadline-day move to Liverpool collapsed last summer, remains a player in demand as he enters the final six months of his contract at Selhurst Park.
This flurry of deals comes after a record-breaking summer where Premier League clubs collectively spent over £3 billion on new talent. The mid-season window, while typically quieter, is already proving pivotal for clubs looking to alter their trajectory for the 2025/26 campaign.
