The January transfer window is already sparking into life, with several of the Premier League's biggest clubs making early moves to strengthen their squads. While big-money deals are often rare in the winter, the market is showing signs of significant activity, headlined by Manchester City's pursuit of Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo.
Big Moves at the Top Clubs
Liverpool are poised to make a double defensive swoop. The Reds are set to sign Austrian teenage defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe for a fee around £2.6 million, with the player initially joining the academy. Furthermore, they are closing in on a deal for Club Brugge centre-back Joel Ordonez, 21, having previously failed to secure Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi.
Across North London, Arsenal are considering reigniting their interest in Real Madrid forward Rodrygo. The Gunners are reportedly weighing up an offer in the region of €60 million for the Brazilian, though Spanish giants value him closer to €65 million. They face competition from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.
Tottenham Hotspur have also entered the fray, showing a keen interest in RB Leipzig's exciting 19-year-old winger Yan Diomande. However, the German club are reluctant to sell this month, making a summer move more probable.
Manchester Clubs in the Spotlight
The situation at Manchester United has been dramatically altered by the sacking of manager Ruben Amorim on Monday, 5 January 2026. The Portuguese coach's turbulent 14-month reign ended after an explosive rant following a draw with Leeds. His dismissal leaves the club's transfer plans, which included monitoring Lille midfielder Carlos Baleba, in a state of flux.
At the Etihad, Manchester City are edging closer to completing a deal for Antoine Semenyo, with the fee expected to be around £65 million. However, Pep Guardiola's side have been hit by a defensive injury crisis, losing both Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias during their match with Chelsea, which may force them into the market for reinforcements.
European Giants Circle Premier League Stars
Interest is not just flowing into the Premier League. Real Madrid are said to be keen on two of the division's standout midfielders: Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton and Manchester City's Rodri. Wharton also has several suitors within England, including Liverpool.
In other news, Chelsea are set to appoint Liam Rosenior as their new manager following the sacking of Enzo Maresca. Guardiola, commenting on his former assistant's exit, stated Chelsea had lost an "incredible manager" and reaffirmed his own commitment to seeing out his contract at City, which runs until 2027.
On the pitch, Liverpool's defensive issues were highlighted in a 2-2 draw with Fulham, where a last-gasp equaliser from Harrison Reed denied Arne Slot's side victory, underlining their need for the defensive recruits they are now chasing.
