European Clubs Gearing Up for Busy January Transfer Window
With the January transfer window approaching, clubs across Europe are actively seeking reinforcements. Arsenal and Liverpool are both monitoring Barcelona winger Raphinha, while Manchester United are already planning for a potential long-term replacement for Marcus Rashford.
Arsenal & Liverpool Eye Raphinha
Arsenal have reportedly engaged with intermediaries to explore a deal for Raphinha, whom they have admired since his time at Leeds United.
However, they face stiff competition from Liverpool and Manchester City. With Barcelona under financial strain, they may consider selling if the right offer comes in.
Liverpool’s transfer ambitions extend beyond Raphinha. The Reds are keeping tabs on Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci as a backup option to Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
However, Torino’s £50m valuation may prove a stumbling block. Additionally, Liverpool are preparing a £50m bid for Atalanta forward Charles De Ketelaere, who has regained form in Serie A after a tough spell at AC Milan.
Manchester United’s Striker Hunt
Manchester United are actively planning for life after Marcus Rashford, whose inconsistent form has raised concerns.
Brighton’s Evan Ferguson has emerged as their top choice, with the 19-year-old already impressing in the Premier League.
The Red Devils are also keeping an eye on Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. While Chelsea have long been favorites to sign him, United are looking to hijack the move.
However, Osimhen’s reported €120m release clause makes him one of the priciest options on the market.
Tottenham & Real Madrid’s Plans
Tottenham are set to battle Manchester United for Botafogo goalkeeper John Victor, whom they see as a long-term successor to Guglielmo Vicario.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have opted against signing a right-back in January but remain focused on securing Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold in the summer if his contract situation remains unresolved.
Newcastle & Aston Villa’s Defensive Targets
Newcastle United, facing financial constraints, are prepared to offload Kieran Trippier and Miguel Almirón to comply with the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules.
Trippier has attracted interest from Saudi clubs, while Almirón could stay in England.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, are targeting Real Madrid’s young center-back Raúl Asencio, competing with Newcastle and Nottingham Forest for his signature. However, Madrid’s preference for developing young talent might make a sale unlikely.
AC Milan & Real Betis in Contract and Midfield Moves
AC Milan are working on contract renewals for key players, with goalkeeper Mike Maignan and midfielder Tijjani Reijnders close to committing their futures to the club.
Milan are determined to keep Maignan amid reported Premier League interest.
Real Betis are looking to strengthen their midfield and have set their sights on Chelsea’s Cesare Casadei and West Ham’s Guido Rodríguez.
Casadei could be available on loan, while Rodríguez’s contract situation makes him an appealing target.
Intense Transfer Window Ahead
As the window nears, speculation is set to intensify. The race for Raphinha could lead to a bidding war, while United’s search for a Rashford successor remains a key storyline.
Alexander-Arnold, Osimhen, and Maignan’s futures will also be closely watched as elite clubs position themselves for major moves.
While much of this remains speculation, clubs will soon have to act as the transfer window officially opens.
