The winter transfer window is about to close across Europe, and significant moves are being made. What insights are ESPN’s reporters gathering about potential deals?
As January draws to a close, we present the latest updates and developments on the biggest transfer stories.
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Karim Benzema faces a fallout with Al Ittihad. Is a return to Europe in the cards? Perhaps MLS?
With his contract at Al Ittihad expiring in June, 38-year-old Benzema had hoped to extend his stay. However, negotiations for a new deal soured, leading to feelings of disrespect on his part. ESPN sources indicate that the offer from the Saudi Pro League may have suggested he would essentially be playing for next to nothing.
As a result, Benzema has distanced himself from the first team at Al Ittihad. He is now exploring various options, which include potentially returning to Europe or exploring opportunities in Major League Soccer — Julien Laurens.
Is Chelsea‘s Cole Palmer feeling homesick? Might he transition to Manchester United?
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Rosenior: Cole Palmer is ‘untouchable and happy’ at Chelsea
Liam Rosenior dismisses rumors linking Cole Palmer with a move to Manchester United.
While not immediate, Manchester United is aware of Palmer’s situation. They recognize his long-standing support for the club and that he frequently visits Manchester to see family and friends. Palmer is a key figure at Chelsea, with a contract lasting until 2033.
Sources from United have previously mentioned Palmer as a potential future transfer target, but discussions have not been formalized and no timeline exists. If Bruno Fernandes were to leave in the summer—a significant if—Palmer might emerge as a candidate to fill that role. Nevertheless, should Palmer desire a move—and again, this is speculative—the transfer fee would likely be steep, especially as United’s summer strategy appears focused on substantial investments in midfield — Rob Dawson.
What’s the latest on Real Madrid‘s Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has been linked with Manchester City this week?
Manchester City has concluded its significant January acquisitions, having secured Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guéhi. Although a new right-back is on their summer agenda, Trent Alexander-Arnold is likely not a target.
City officials have actively expressed disinterest in Alexander-Arnold, clarifying that no discussions have occurred with his representatives regarding a potential return to the Premier League — Rob Dawson.
How is Wrexham faring in their promotion quest? Are they planning any last-minute moves?
Manager Phil Parkinson aims to strengthen Wrexham’s attacking front and remains interested in Angers forward Sidiki Cherif. However, the £19 million asking price for the 19-year-old exceeds what Wrexham is willing to pay.
With the deadline looming on Monday, Parkinson’s priority is to “streamline” his squad to avoid being burdened with an unwieldy number of players.
Defender Conor Coady recently finalized a loan arrangement with Charlton Athletic, following the departures of Andy Cannon (Burton Albion) and James McClean (Derry City) from the Stok Cae Ras this month. Elliott Lee could also depart, while club legend Paul Mullin is nearing a loan move to Bradford City, having played the first half of the season for Wigan Athletic — Mark Ogden.
Liverpool‘s Andy Robertson has been linked to Tottenham Hotspur this month. Is a transfer still possible before the window closes?
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How will Liverpool manage without Jeremie Frimpong?
Gab Marcotti and Julien Laurens respond to Jeremie Frimpong’s injury during Liverpool’s 6-0 win over Qarabağ FK.
While anything could happen, this transfer appears increasingly unlikely this month.
Liverpool initially engaged in talks with Tottenham at Robertson’s request; however, with so few defensive options available, they can no longer afford to let him leave.
It seems more probable that Robertson will stay at Anfield until his contract concludes this summer — Beth Lindop.
What other deals should we keep an eye on in the Premier League?
Manchester United aim to finalize a deal for Mohamed Kader Meïté, set to join Al Hilal shortly. Rennes has accepted a €30 million offer, with an additional €3 million in bonuses, from the Saudi Pro League outfit for the 18-year-old forward. While United expressed interest, it was primarily for a summer transfer. He is poised to sign a contract with Al Hilal until 2029 — Julien Laurens.
Brighton & Hove Albion are among the English clubs interested in Reims‘s standout 19-year-old midfielder Patrick Zabi. Two other English clubs and three from Italy have also shown interest. Zabi has emerged as one of Ligue 2’s top talents this season, prompting Reims to demand at least €30 million for his transfer. A previous bid of €23 million, plus €3 million in add-ons, from Ligue 1 side Paris FC was rejected earlier this month — Julien Laurens.
Oleksandr Zinchenko is nearing a loan move to Ajax until the season’s conclusion and could finalize the move as soon as Friday. His stint at Nottingham Forest on loan last summer was less than successful, featuring in only 10 matches across all competitions. He is now set to finish the season in the Eredivisie — ESPN NL.
Are there any other intriguing transfers in the pipeline?
– West Ham has included a provision allowing them to reacquire Lucas Paquetá should he leave Flamengo. Paquetá has returned to his boyhood club to complete a transfer valued at €41.25 million from the London team. West Ham maintains the option to match any accepted offer for Paquetá during his time at Flamengo — ESPN Brasil.
– Orlando City midfielder César Araujo is on track to join Liga MX team Tigres to enhance their squad for the remainder of the season. Tigres is seeking additional depth, and Araujo is presenting himself as a strong option — Víctor Álvarez, ESPN Deportes.
– The transfer of Monterrey forward Germán Berterame to Inter Miami remains pending, but progress is reportedly underway. Berterame indicated on Monday that he would conclude his decision soon, and he has been training separately from Monterrey’s main team, suggesting an impending departure. The deal is estimated to be worth around $15 million — Víctor Álvarez, ESPN Deportes.