Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal keen on €100m Moussa Diaby and Newcastle want Chelsea trio

The January transfer window has two weeks left to run and well over half the Premier League’s clubs have made at least one addition this month already - with the promise of plenty more to come.

Nottingham Forest added Brazilian midfielder Danilo to their ranks and Aston Villa agreed a deal for Jhon Duran from Chicago Fire, while the biggest deal of the window so far is Chelsea’s €100m capture of Mykhailo Mudryk from Shakhtar.

In Tuesday’s rumours, Declan Rice and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are among the players who could be on the move sooner or later, while two Manchester United wingers face contrasting futures if the latest reports are to be believed.

Follow all the latest transfer news and rumours below.

Transfer news LIVE

• Arsenal target £80m Rice for summer

• Newcastle want Chelsea trio in January, including Ziyech

• Man United winger Elanga wanted by Dortmund

• Wolves agree €5m deal for Sarabia

• Moussa Diaby on Arsenal’s wishlist after missing Mudryk

• Spurs’ Trossard bid turned down by Brighton

Arsenal make Declan Rice ‘top target’ for summer

09:01 , Karl Matchett

We kick off with the news that Arsenal, yet to make a signing this month, are already looking ahead to a Champions League campaign next term - and they want Declan Rice front and centre for it.

The West Ham midfielder will be in-demand after a poor Hammers campaign and as well as the Gunners, the Times say that Man United and Chelsea are also keen.

However, Arsenal are “growing in confidence” that they will win the race for his signature, despite having just been beaten by one of those clubs to land Mykhailo Mudryk, their top target for January.

The reported fee is £80m - a huge chunk down from last summer’s £150m reported pricetag.

Marsch discusses Leeds’ new signing Rutter

15:45 , Karl Matchett

Leeds signed Georginio Rutter yesterday and Jesse Marsch has labelled him a dynamic option who can use both feet.

“We identified Georginio, I’ve watched him for a while and I think he is an explosive footballer, talented, lots of potential and we’ve found out how much of a hard worker he is and how much he wants to achieve for himself.

“When you coach players from Germany there is a high level of tactical education and I sat down with him yesterday talking about what our philosophy is and he was very much up to speed. It gives me hope he can acclimate quickly.

“I think he has flexibility. When we did research on him we found Georginio is 50-50 on his right and left foot. Usually players only use 20% of their non-dominant foot. The most two-footed player I’ve ever seen.”

Palace not chasing Gallagher, Vieira says

15:30 , Karl Matchett

Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira says his club are not trying to re-sign Conor Gallagher from Chelsea, but they will be trying to add to the squad before the end of the month.

“There are options to improve that side of the game [in the market],” he said. “This is a really difficult window, to find those players who can improve the squad.

“We’ve managed to identify those players, we’ve identified the names of the players we wanted, and now it’s in the hands of the football club on trying to make it happen.

“But at the same time, it’s not an easy one. It’s a really complicated and a really difficult one. We are working hard to try to bring those players.”

Southampton in for Villarreal striker Jackson

15:15 , Karl Matchett

Nicolas Jackson could be set for a switch to Southampton.

The Athletic say Saints and Villarreal have been in talks over a loan deal, but that now may become a permanent switch in January worth up to €20m.

Talks have been held with the player’s reps and the Premier League’s bottom club are hopeful of a deal.

Bringing back Danny Ings is the alternative, the report claims.

USA midfielder McKennie turns down Aston Villa

15:00 , Karl Matchett

Weston McKennie has said no thank you to Unai Emery, turning down Aston Villa.

That’s according to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, who say he prefers to remain at Juventus and see what options arise in the summer.

Bournemouth have also enquired, but the brighter lights of clubs in Europe - Chelsea and Spurs - have previously been linked with the American. For now, it’s Turin rather than Birmingham.

Aston Villa sell defender to Strasbourg

14:45 , Karl Matchett

Aston Villa have sold defender Frederic Guilbert to Strasbourg.

The 28-year-old right-back only played 32 times for the club after joining in 2019 and has had loans at Caen and Strasbourg since then, who he now joins permanently.

New Forest signing Danilo’s first words after joining

14:30 , Karl Matchett

First words from new Forest signing Danilo:

“I learned a bit about the history of the club and saw they had won two European Cups.

“I will show a lot of determination and a strong desire to win and will always look to do my best on the pitch to achieve positive results.

“I’m excited about getting started and meeting my new team-mates.”

Bournemouth agree £20m fee for Dango Ouattara

14:15 , Karl Matchett

Dango Ouattara could be the new name through the door for Bournemouth, with BBC Sport reporting they have agreed a fee for him.

The Lorient winger will cost around £20m they say - the new Cherries owner Bill Foley is trying to buy a stake in the French club, too.

Might help to smooth the deal, for sure.

Chelsea ‘clear’ to sign Nkunku

14:00 , Karl Matchett

Chelsea have not stopped spending since Todd Boehly took over the reigns and that will continue in summer, it seems.

RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku is their main priority for summer and the versatile attacker will almost certainly head to Stamford Bridge, believes the German club’s sporting director Max Eberl.

He told Bild it was “very clear” that the Frenchman would follow the likes of Mudryk and Andrey Santos in rebuilding an attack for Graham Potter.

Arsenal look at Diaby as Mudryk alternative

13:45 , Karl Matchett

And now on what Arsenal do next - head to the Bundesliga might be the answer.

Manuel Veth suggests that Moussa Diaby is the alternative to him, with the Transfermarkt writer saying the Ukrainian’s fee will be the benchmark and Bayer Leverkusen would want a similar amount.

Feels an unlikely mid-season deal, in truth.

Shakhtar criticise Arsenal in Mudryk negotiations

13:30 , Karl Matchett

Shakhtar Donetsk CEO Sergei Palkin has had a few words to say about Arsenal during talks for the Mykhailo Mudryk deal - and not complimentary ones.

“Arsenal contacted the player almost one and a half months before they contacted us,” Palkin told the Athletic. “If you talk about Chelsea, they called me at the end of December and asked if they can contact Mudryk because they are interested in him and want to talk with him. I said, ‘No problem, you can contact him’.

“They contacted the player and the agent of the player and they met the financial conditions. Therefore, why did many people around it have the impression that Mudryk was going to Arsenal? It is because Arsenal contacted him and then Mudryk started to watch some games of Arsenal.

“But negotiations are negotiations. When you didn’t close everything, when you did not (close) the last dot, then you cannot finish the deal.”

Brighton turn down Trossard offer from Spurs

13:15 , Karl Matchett

Eurosport say Brighton have turned down Tottenham’s £12m offer for Leandro Trossard, wanting a far higher bid to let him go.

The Belgian is out of favour with new boss De Zerbi but has 18 months left on his contract, so the Seagulls are in no hurry to sell.

Spurs won’t be getting him on the cheap, though.

Bayern still keen on Harry Kane in summer

13:00 , Karl Matchett

Harry Kane has been one of Tottenham’s brightest spots this season, but the poor form of the team and lack of progress under Antonio Conte has again led to questions over his future.

Bayern Munich remain keen to sign him and 90Mins say he is “one of their main targets” for the summer, even after Conte called their pursuit of him “disrespectful”.

Bayern will also face a rival in Man United if Kane does push for a move, they say.

Orlando star confirms Arsenal made approach

12:48 , Karl Matchett

Facundo Torres says Arsenal have been in touch with his club Orlando City, over a potential transfer.

The Gunners have reportedly been looking at the winger as an alternative on both sides of their attack, as he plays left but is also left-footed, so could cover for Bukayo Saka on the right too.

“Orlando City confirmed to me that there was contact with Arsenal, but then I left for the World Cup and I didn’t want to hear about a potential transfer at that point,” he said. “So the conversation stayed there but now that I am back with the team, we will see where the conversation goes.”

William Saliba ‘so happy’ at Arsenal as contract talks continue

12:36 , Karl Matchett

William Saliba insists he is “so happy” at Arsenal as contract talks continue behind the scenes of an increasingly convincing Premier League title bid.

The Gunners sit eight points clear at the summit following a 2-0 derby win at Tottenham on Sunday.

A Hugo Lloris own goal and long-range strike from captain Martin Odegaard secured Arsenal’s first-ever win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and moved them further ahead at the top of the table.

France international Saliba has played a large part in the club’s upturn in fortunes having made his debut at the start of the season following three loan spells away from north London.

Such has been the level of his performances that he is expected to sign a new deal with Arsenal and he is ready to let the talks rumble on in the background as Mikel Arteta’s side strive for glory.

William Saliba ‘so happy’ at Arsenal as contract talks continue

Wolves want to offload Guedes

12:24 , Karl Matchett

It has been hard going for Goncalo Guedes since signing for Wolves, with the former Valencia man used both through the middle and off the left at times - but also left on the bench plenty.

Julen Lopetegui hasn’t been keen to make him a first choice, say TalkSport, and Wolves want to sell him now to raise funds and space in the squad, with Joao Gomes, Pablo Sarabia and Mario Lemina to be additions this month.

There is no confirmation about willing buyers right now.

Leicester bid for Gonzalez rejected

12:12 , Karl Matchett

Leicester City are hoping for new recruits this month to boost their faltering season, but they have work to do if Nicolas Gonzalez is going to be one of them.

The Foxes’ offer of £30m has been turned down by Fiorentina, say 90 Mins, though they also note personal terms have already been agreed with the player.

It remains to be seen whether they go back in with another bid, or turn attentions elsewhere.

Nottingham Forest confirm signing of Danilo

12:00 , Karl Matchett

Done deal this morning: Nottingham Forest landed Brazilian defensive midfielder Danilo from Palmeiras, reportedly paying around £18m to bring him to the Premier League.

The 21-year-old has played in the Copa Libertadores and made 34 appearances for his club in the Brazilian Serie A last term, a holding player in their regular 4-2-3-1 system.

Jurgen Klopp handed the authority at Liverpool to do something he never has before

11:48 , Karl Matchett

Once emotions had calmed, Jurgen Klopp went to Liverpool’s training base and responded as he always does - to double down, to go again and keep the energy going. It is badly needed.

Even a figure as effusive as the German, however, knows this situation is going to require more than impetus. If Saturday’s description of Brighton as a “low point” was not enough, perhaps more telling was his muted response to a question over whether a 3-0 defeat represented the end of this Liverpool team. Klopp would previously have responded with fire to such a suggestion.

This time, having already said “sorry” in response to a question about the formation, he was literally apologetic.

“It’s our fault you can ask this,” Klopp said. “I understand it… we have to make sure that you can’t ask this question any more, and that’s obviously our job.”

It’s more than that being asked, though. The wonder is now just whether this marks the end of a team but whether it marks the end of the entire Klopp era. A sense of fin de siecle has been further fostered by Fenway Sports Group putting the club up for sale; that this is all coming to a natural conclusion.

Miguel Delaney looks at whether Jurgen Klopp can, for the first time, build a second successful team:

Jurgen Klopp handed the authority at Liverpool to do something he never has before

Leeds up bid for Morocco midfielder Ounahi

11:36 , Karl Matchett

Leeds have returned for a new attempt to sign Azzedine Ounahi, Morocco’s World Cup star.

The midfielder, currently with Angers, looks set to move on and the Premier League club have offered £22m to take him away from Ligue 1, say 90 Mins.

Angers were asking for around €30m, which leaves a gap of around £4.5m between the clubs’ valuations.

Leicester have also been keen but have yet to offer the required amount.

No offers for Jude Bellingham, say Dortmund

11:24 , Karl Matchett

Borussia Dortmund and England midfielder Jude Bellingham might be the world’s most in-demand central midfielder, but so far no club has taken the first bite.

That’s according to BVB sports director Sebastian Kehl, who says “there are no offers at all” for him - so far. And he’s optimistic that talks with Bellingham’s parents might lead to an even longer stay in the Bundesliga.

“Jude has made an incredible development here. With the way he plays football, his fighting spirit and his commitment, he has become a real Borussia player who identifies very much with BVB,” he said to Kicker.

“From a purely sporting point of view I would be stupid to want to give up Jude Bellingham. We’ll talk to him and his parents in due course. Of course we need economic resources to sign new players. But we shouldn’t pin the issue on one player.”

Tottenham still want Pedro Porro, but not at £40m

11:12 , Karl Matchett

Spurs are still waiting to add anyone this month, but Pedro Porro is on their wishlist.

The Sporting CP star is available if they pay his release clause, but the north London club don’t value him at €45m (£40m), so the clubs are at an impasse, say 90Mins. A more structured deal could yet be struck but Sporting boss Ruben Amorim isn’t keen on the idea.

Spurs have also been linked with teammate Marcus Edwards, while Adama Traore remains a possible target.

Man United target €40m Denzel Dumfries

11:00 , Karl Matchett

More Man United news now but this time on the incoming side, as it’s reported in Italy they want Inter Milan wing-back Denzel Dumfries.

The Dutch flank man is available from €40m, say TMW, with both Chelsea and the Red Devils having been in touch so far about him.

Bayern are keen, but not at that price.

Football rumours: Declan Rice, Anthony Gordon, Franck Kessie and more

10:48 , Karl Matchett

Here’s a complete roundup of this morning’s transfer rumours from around the media:

Football rumours: Declan Rice emerges as Arsenal’s top summer target

Rating Chelsea’s five most expensive signings after Mykhailo Mudryk deal

10:36 , Karl Matchett

Chelsea’s late swoop to scupper rivals Arsenal’s hopes of signing Mykhailo Mudryk set up one of the most eye-catching transfers of the season.

The Ukraine international has become one of the Blues’ most expensive signings after arriving at Stamford Bridge from Shakhtar Donetsk for £62million, a fee that could rise to £88m depending on performances.

Here we take a look at how the club’s five most expensive buys prior to Mudryk’s arrival have fared.

Rating Chelsea’s five most expensive signings after Mykhailo Mudryk deal

Manchester United taking long-term view over Alejandro Garnacho contract and development

10:24 , Karl Matchett

As Erik ten Hag sent Alejandro Garnacho on with Manchester United 1-0 down on Saturday, he reminded him of a few tactical instructions, but told him to express himself within that.

The 18-year-old had an awful lot to show, and was ready for it. Garnacho has made an increasing impact this season, but this performance against Manchester City felt like one of those career juncture moments in that it was a game-changing impact in a huge match.

The teenager turned Nathan Ake and played a huge part in turning the game. This is exactly the kind of exhilarating talent that has people in the game so excited.

This is why United fans have already honoured Garnacho with the same “viva” tune as Cristiano Ronaldo. That’s how highly he is thought of, and it’s not just at Carrington and Old Trafford.

More here from Miguel Delaney:

Man Utd taking long-term view over Alejandro Garnacho contract and development

Aston Villa agree deal for Chicago Fire striker Jhon Duran

10:12 , Karl Matchett

Aston Villa have agreed to sign Jhon Duran from Chicago Fire.

The deal for the striker will reportedly cost Villa an initial £14.75million.

“Aston Villa can confirm that an agreement has been reached with Chicago Fire for the permanent transfer of 19-year-old striker Jhon Duran,” read a Villa statement.

“The deal is subject to the player passing a medical, agreeing personal terms and obtaining the necessary work visa.”

Colombia international Duran made 22 appearances in the MLS for the Fire last season, scoring eight goals, and has played three times for his country.

Aston Villa agree deal for Chicago Fire striker Jhon Duran

Manchester United winger Anthony Elanga a target for Dortmund

10:00 , Karl Matchett

Man United’s Anthony Elanga may be allowed to leave Old Trafford this month, according to TalkSport.

The Swedish youngster is behind Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford for spots on the wings, while Bruno Fernandes has also been operating from the right side at times - and Jadon Sancho is still to come back too.

Borussia Dortmund are the main interested party, with Bournemouth and Everton having also enquired about his availability.

Arsenal target Raphinha rules out quick Barcelona exit

09:50 , Karl Matchett

Arsenal have been linked with a host of wingers this transfer window, with Mykhailo Mudryk having been their main target - he has since signed for Chelsea though.

Another who has been heavily rumoured to be on their wishlist is Raphinha, with the former Leeds man having failed to nail down a starting spot with Barcelona, edged out of the side by Ousmane Dembele on the right wing.

However, his agents have told Mundo Deportivo that there’s no prospect of him seeking a Camp Nou departure, and Barcelona don’t want to sell him either. Raphinha turned down Arsenal in summer to go to LaLiga and he’s inclined to do the exact same thing again this month.

Wolves agree deal for Spain and Paris St Germain midfielder Pablo Sarabia

09:40 , Karl Matchett

Wolves have agreed the signing of attacking midfielder Pablo Sarabia from Paris St Germain, the PA news agency understands.

The Spain international is set to join on a two-and-a-half-year deal for a fee of five million euros (£4.4million).

The deal is subject to Sarabia passing a medical on Tuesday.

The 30-year-old has made 14 Ligue 1 appearances for PSG so far this season, all but three off the bench, and also featured in three Champions League games.

Full report:

Wolves agree deal for Spain and PSG midfielder Pablo Sarabia

Brighton target forward Valentin Castellanos in bid to bolster attacking options

09:30 , Karl Matchett

Brighton have contacted New York City FC and Girona about a move for Argentine forward Valentin ‘Taty’ Castellanos, as they seek to evolve their forward line.

With Leandro Trossard expected to leave this window after declaring he wants to move, manager Roberto De Zerbi needs another attacker, and Castellanos fits the right profile.

The 24-year-old has scored five goals in 18 appearances this season for Girona, where he is on loan from the Catalan club’s sister outfit New York City. Girona are 47 per cent owned by City Football Group.

The Liga club are nevertheless reluctant to sell this January due to Castellanos’ impact this season and would rather keep him until the summer.

Full details from Miguel Delaney:

Brighton target forward Valentin Castellanos in bid to bolster attacking options

Newcastle keen on triple Chelsea swoop

09:15 , Karl Matchett

Newcastle United are desperately in need of midfield reinforcements in January if they want to sustain their top-four push, after injuries have hit them hard in that area and Bruno Guimaraes went off injured at the weekend too.

Now they are reportedly hoping to bolster not just that area of the pitch but also their forward line, with a one-stop-shop for all your needs at Stamford Bridge.

Eddie Howe is keen on Conor Gallagher, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Hakim Ziyech, report the Telegraph, with the latter probably allowed to leave due to Champions League squad rules.

The English midfield duo could be more problematic deals to conclude as Chelsea also have injury concerns of their own.

Transfer news LIVE

08:50 , Karl Matchett

Good morning and welcome back to the Independent’s live coverage of the January transfer window, with the rumours continuing to roll on Tuesday morning.

We’ll take an initial sweep of the Premier League’s top clubs straight away, with Arsenal being linked to Declan Rice taking prime position to start.

How Marcus Rashford’s season took off

Monday 16 January 2023 20:00 , Michael Jones

Marcus Rashford continued to drive Manchester United’s renaissance as his latest goal gave his side a memorable win in the Manchester derby on Saturday.

After two seasons of struggle, the 25-year-old has rediscovered his form and has scored in each of his last seven appearances.

Here we look at how the former academy graduate’s season has taken off since the World Cup and how he is now flourishing under new manager Erik ten Hag.

How Marcus Rashford’s season at Man Utd took off

How does Pep Guardiola make the numbers add up for Man City and Erling Haaland?

Monday 16 January 2023 19:45 , Michael Jones

At a fraught point in the Manchester derby, Pep Guardiola felt he had to get something off his mind. The Catalan called Erling Haaland over and intensively gave the Manchester City forward a series of instructions.

As he listened, the Norwegian didn’t look anywhere near as enthused about any of this as his manager. Haaland stood there with his hands on his hips. That might have been down to his generally impassive appearance, but it came as part of a very passive performance.

Haaland was barely involved in the game, with only 19 touches, and two shots. Even Jack Grealish beat him to a header for a goal that could have been his, effectively removing the forward from what he is supposed to be there for.

Those last few words nevertheless provoke a far bigger question, that is complicating City’s season. Is Haaland there for just goals, or more?

How does Guardiola make the numbers add up for Man City and Haaland?

Mark Hughes remembers ‘great teammate’ Gianluca Vialli

Monday 16 January 2023 19:30 , Michael Jones

Mark Hughes paid a poignant tribute to former team-mate Gianluca Vialli after joining Chelsea’s tribute following the Italian’s death aged 58.

Hughes shared the dressing room with Vialli at Chelsea from 1996 as a team-mate before the latter took the role of player-manager in 1998.

The current Bradford boss took to the pitch at Stamford Bridge on Sunday alongside several other former team-mates of Vialli, who recently died from pancreatic cancer, as the club paid their respects for the first time at home before their 1-0 win over Crystal Palace.

Mark Hughes remembers ‘great teammate’ Gianluca Vialli

William Saliba ‘so happy’ at Arsenal as contract talks continue

Monday 16 January 2023 19:15 , Michael Jones

William Saliba insists he is “so happy” at Arsenal as contract talks continue behind the scenes of an increasingly convincing Premier League title bid.

The Gunners sit eight points clear at the summit following a 2-0 derby win at Tottenham on Sunday.

A Hugo Lloris own goal and long-range strike from captain Martin Odegaard secured Arsenal’s first-ever win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and moved them further ahead at the top of the table.

France international Saliba has played a large part in the club’s upturn in fortunes having made his debut at the start of the season following three loan spells away from north London.

Such has been the level of his performances that he is expected to sign a new deal with Arsenal and he is ready to let the talks rumble on in the background as Mikel Arteta’s side strive for glory.

William Saliba ‘so happy’ at Arsenal as contract talks continue

Newcastle’s complete extraordinary transformation with ‘more growth to come’

Monday 16 January 2023 19:00 , Michael Jones

Thirty-eight points. It used to be the sum total of Newcastle’s ambitions for a season in the dog days of Mike Ashley’s reign. It was enough to secure them their Premier League status.

Thirty-eight points. It is Newcastle’s return in the first half of this season. If even the most rudimentary of maths shows it is an average of two per game, it promises to bring them Champions League football. Or, to put it in terms that were more familiar until recently, they are safe from relegation with 19 games to go.

If they are, in effect, twice as good as they used to be with roughly half a new team, and six players who predated their takeover and subsequent spending spree started the win over Fulham, there are other examples of the exponential improvement that threatens to carry them into the European elite.

The 38 points Newcastle have from 19 games is more than three times as many as the 11 they had taken at this stage last season. The 11 goals they have conceded is barely more than a quarter of the 42 they had let in by this point 12 months ago. Eddie Howe’s language tends to be unremarkable, but the numbers are.

Newcastle’s complete extraordinary transformation with ‘more growth to come’

Chelsea short-term successes show they remain a club on mixed wavelengths

Monday 16 January 2023 18:45 , Michael Jones

Graham Potter punched the air at full-time following his side’s narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace. It seemed a fair reaction, given the pressure cooker that is Chelsea at the moment following a winless 2023 up to now.

A worsening injury crisis, big money deals and even bigger contracts have been thrown into a boiling, bubbling pot of new ownership, struggling coach and discontented fans.

Saturday’s win saw all of these issues unfold and more in a bizarre, frustrating and nervous afternoon of football.

The late, great Gianluca Vialli was honoured with a montage of his finest moments and a minute’s applause before the game, with his son and club legends venturing onto the pitch to pay tribute. The current Chelsea players, meanwhile, wore shirts bearing the Italian’s name before kick-off.

Chelsea short-term successes show they remain a club on mixed wavelengths

Chelsea confirm £88m signing of Mykhailo Mudryk ahead of Arsenal

Monday 16 January 2023 18:30 , Michael Jones

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Mykhailo Mudryk, with the deal expected to be worth €100m (£88.7m) overall.

Mudryk, 22, has signed an eight-and-a-half year contract at Stamford Bridge and becomes Chelsea’s fifth January signing, with the Ukrainian attacker following striker David Datro Fofana, centre-back Benoit Badiashile, Brazilian attacking midfielder Andrey Santos and the on-loan Joao Felix to west London.

Arsenal had been pushing to sign Mudryk and were confident of getting a deal done until recently, when Chelsea upped the ante to offer Shakhtar Donetsk a bigger fee than the Gunners - and doubled the wages on offer to Mudryk himself.

Chelsea confirm £88m signing of Mykhailo Mudryk ahead of Arsenal

Arsenal’s unified vision exposes Tottenham’s identify crisis under Antonio Conte

Monday 16 January 2023 18:15 , Michael Jones

After an effervescent Arsenal win where another Antonio Conte eruption might have been expected, the Tottenham Hotspur manager instead took a different view.

“With the performance, I’m not disappointed,” the Italian said. “We knew the game would be difficult. Arsenal are very strong, and tonight showed they deserve to be top of the league. In my opinion, Arsenal and Manchester City are the only two teams that can fight for the league this season.”

Mikel Arteta meanwhile came as close as he has to publicly acknowledging that prospect, by talking about how it will still likely take over 90 points to claim the title. With a return of 2.6 points per game after this 2-0 victory, Arsenal are currently on course for 99.

Arsenal’s unified vision exposes Tottenham’s identify crisis

Bruno Fernandes explains why Man United forward Marcus Rashford is among ‘best players in the world’

Monday 16 January 2023 18:00 , Michael Jones

Bruno Fernandes believes Marcus Rashford is one of the best footballers in the world and thinks he will improve again.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has branded Rashford “unstoppable” as he has gone on the best goalscoring run of his career and Fernandes, who also struck in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Manchester City, agrees.

Rashford has struck in every match since the World Cup and has equalled a United club record by scoring in nine successive games at Old Trafford.

And Fernandes said: “He’s always been unstoppable but he wasn’t getting his goals, his rewards. He’s always been like this. The thing is now the ball is going in, he’s getting his goals, he’s getting his rewards for the effort he’s been giving for the team.”

Fernandes explains why Rashford is among ‘best players in the world’

Brighton confirm Enock Mwepu taken ill and undergoing hospital tests in Zambia

Monday 16 January 2023 17:45 , Michael Jones

Former Brighton midfielder Enock Mwepu is undergoing tests in hospital after being taken ill in his native Zambia, the Premier League club has said.

In October, Mwepu was forced to retire from football at the age of 24 after being diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening heart condition.

The Zambia international had fallen ill on a flight to meet up with his national team-mates and spent time in hospital in Mali before returning to Brighton, where tests revealed the hereditary condition.

In a statement published on their website on Sunday, Brighton said: “The club can provide the following update on Enock Mwepu, in response to media reports.

Brighton confirm Mwepu taken ill and undergoing tests in Zambia

Tottenham fan appears to kick Aaron Ramsdale after Arsenal win north London derby

Monday 16 January 2023 17:30 , Michael Jones

Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur was marred in the moments after the full-time whistle as a supporter from the home side appeared to try and kick Gunners goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

The Premier League leaders picked up a well-deserved three points thanks to an own goal by Hugo Lloris and a strike from Martin Odegaard.

But it was the post-match scenes which were the big talking point, as the player of the match was seemingly assaulted, just days after the police chief warned supporters must respect the boundaries of the pitch as banning orders rise.

Television cameras clearly showed the fan jumping up on the advertising hoardings to stand and aim a kick at the stopper as he walked away from a clash with Spurs attacker Richarlison moments earlier, towards his water bottle behind the goal.

Spurs fan appears to kick goalkeeper Ramsdale after Arsenal victory

Celtic accept offer for Giakoumakis

Monday 16 January 2023 17:15 , Michael Jones

Celtic have accepted an offer from Japanese side Urawa Red Diamonds for striker Giorgos Giakoumakis.

Sky Sports News reports that the initial fee is £3m for the Greece international who is looking to leave Celtic in search of more regular first team football.

However, Giakouamakis has strong interest from Atlanta United and is weighing up his options. He came on as a substitute and scored in Celtic’s 2-0 League Cup semi-final win over Kilmarnock at the weekend.

Liverpool must go ‘back to basics’ after Brighton defeat, Jurgen Klopp insists

Monday 16 January 2023 17:00 , Michael Jones

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admits his under-performing side will have to go back to basics in order to solve their current problems.

A sixth Premier League defeat of the season at Brighton has left the Reds 10 points adrift of the top four but, with an FA Cup replay at Wolves to face on Tuesday, there is little time to correct the issues.

But Klopp said the thing they had to be was more difficult to beat.

“The issues we had in that game were obvious,” he said. “In the end, these are football problems and you solve them with football and to play better football than we did at Brighton should not be too difficult.

“We have to be more compact. The pitch looks too big when we are defending. You have to go back to basics and from there you can make steps.”

Liverpool must go ‘back to basics’ after Brighton defeat, Jurgen Klopp insists

Brighton target forward Valentin Castellanos in bid to bolster attacking options

Monday 16 January 2023 16:50 , Michael Jones

Brighton have contacted New York City FC and Girona about a move for Argentine forward Valentin ‘Taty’ Castellanos, as they seek to evolve their forward line.

With Leandro Trossard expected to leave this window after declaring he wants to move, manager Roberto De Zerbi needs another attacker, and Castellanos fits the right profile.

The 24-year-old has scored five goals in 18 appearances this season for Girona, where he is on loan from the Catalan club’s sister outfit New York City. Girona are 47 per cent owned by City Football Group.

The Liga club are nevertheless reluctant to sell this January due to Castellanos’ impact this season and would rather keep him until the summer.

Brighton target forward Valentin Castellanos in bid to bolster attacking options

Aston Villa agree deal for Chicago Fire striker Jhon Duran

Monday 16 January 2023 16:40 , Michael Jones

Aston Villa have agreed to sign Jhon Duran from Chicago Fire.

The deal for the striker will reportedly cost Villa an initial £14.75million.

“Aston Villa can confirm that an agreement has been reached with Chicago Fire for the permanent transfer of 19-year-old striker Jhon Duran,” read a Villa statement.

“The deal is subject to the player passing a medical, agreeing personal terms and obtaining the necessary work visa.”

Colombia international Duran made 22 appearances in the MLS for the Fire last season, scoring eight goals, and has played three times for his country.

Aston Villa agree deal for Chicago Fire striker Jhon Duran

Jurgen Klopp handed the authority at Liverpool to do something he never has before

Monday 16 January 2023 16:30 , Michael Jones

Once emotions had calmed, Jurgen Klopp went to Liverpool’s training base and responded as he always does - to double down, to go again and keep the energy going. It is badly needed.

Even a figure as effusive as the German, however, knows this situation is going to require more than impetus. If Saturday’s description of Brighton as a “low point” was not enough, perhaps more telling was his muted response to a question over whether a 3-0 defeat represented the end of this Liverpool team. Klopp would previously have responded with fire to such a suggestion.

This time, having already said “sorry” in response to a question about the formation, he was literally apologetic.

Jurgen Klopp handed the authority at Liverpool to do something he never has before

Angelo Ogbonna urges fans to stick with West Ham after sliding into bottom three

Monday 16 January 2023 16:20 , Michael Jones

Angelo Ogbonna insists it is important for West Ham to understand their current situation after they dropped into the Premier League relegation zone.

The Hammers have taken just one point from the last 21 on offer following a 1-0 loss at fellow strugglers Wolves on Saturday.

Daniel Podence’s low drive early in the second half was enough for Wolves to secure a much-needed victory, which saw them move out of the bottom three to be replaced by their visitors.

David Moyes has asked fans to stick with the team despite a run of six defeats from their last seven league outings, with a home game against a similarly out-of-form Everton next up.

Angelo Ogbonna urges fans to stick with West Ham after sliding into bottom three

Chelsea short-term successes show they remain a club on mixed wavelengths

Monday 16 January 2023 16:08 , Lawrence Ostlere

Graham Potter punched the air at full-time following his side’s narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace. It seemed a fair reaction, given the pressure cooker that is Chelsea at the moment following a winless 2023 up to now.

A worsening injury crisis, big money deals and even bigger contracts have been thrown into a boiling, bubbling pot of new ownership, struggling coach and discontented fans.

Saturday’s win saw all of these issues unfold and more in a bizarre, frustrating and nervous afternoon of football.

After the on-pitch action had begun, murmurs began: Chelsea had announced the signing of Mykhailo Mudryk 20 minutes into the match.

By Ollie Cooper:

Chelsea short-term successes show they remain a club on mixed wavelengths

No Chelsea follow up on Madueke

Monday 16 January 2023 16:00 , Michael Jones

Chelsea are yet to follow up on their initial discussions with PSV about Noni Madueke.

The club had talks last week with PSV but there has been no further contact since. This is likely because Chelsea were concentrating on completing the record £88.5m deal for Mykhailo Mudryk.

The signing of the Ukranian winger may mean that the Blues interest in Madueke has cooled.

Weghorst a ‘perfect fit’ for Man Utd

Monday 16 January 2023 15:50 , Michael Jones

Paul Parker says new loan signing Wout Weghorst is a “perfect” fit for Manchester United after the striker was drafted in from Burnley to fill the void left by Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial departure.

Retired United and England defender Parker told Soccernews: “I think Wout Weghorst is the perfect signing for Man United. He is strong and we saw during the World Cup that he is also very good with his feet.

“He is not only a target man but will also add that asset to the club which they have been missing.

“He is a completely different player in my opinion than what he was in Burnley. He has added so much to his game since then and I think he can help Man United to achieve their goals this season.”

Julen Lopetegui silent on Pablo Sarabia links to Wolves

Monday 16 January 2023 15:40 , Michael Jones

Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui refused to discuss any incoming transfers as he remained cautious over new arrivals.

The head coach shut down any talk of signings ahead of Tuesday’s FA Cup replay with Liverpool.

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Christophe Galtier has confirmed attacking midfielder Pablo Sarabia is poised to move to the Premier League, with Molineux his expected destination.

Flamengo midfielder Joao Gomes is also a target, with Wolves having already signed Matheus Cunha on an initial loan from Atletico Madrid.

Julen Lopetegui silent on Pablo Sarabia links to Wolves

How does Pep Guardiola make the numbers add up for Man City and Erling Haaland?

Monday 16 January 2023 15:30 , Michael Jones

At a fraught point in the Manchester derby, Pep Guardiola felt he had to get something off his mind. The Catalan called Erling Haaland over and intensively gave the Manchester City forward a series of instructions.

As he listened, the Norwegian didn’t look anywhere near as enthused about any of this as his manager. Haaland stood there with his hands on his hips. That might have been down to his generally impassive appearance, but it came as part of a very passive performance.

Haaland was barely involved in the game, with only 19 touches, and two shots. Even Jack Grealish beat him to a header for a goal that could have been his, effectively removing the forward from what he is supposed to be there for.

Those last few words nevertheless provoke a far bigger question, that is complicating City’s season. Is Haaland there for just goals, or more?

How does Guardiola make the numbers add up for Man City and Haaland?

Wolves waiting on West Ham response

Monday 16 January 2023 15:22 , Michael Jones

Wolves are still waiting for a response from West Ham regarding their offer for defender Craig Dawson.

The midlands club are said to be “hopeful” of completing the deal before the end of the window with Dawson keen on the move.

The defender was left out of the West Ham squad for Saturday’s defeat at Wolves. He almost joined Wolves on Deadline Day in the summer and this transfer only seems like a matter of time.

Forest close to signing Danilo

Monday 16 January 2023 15:15 , Michael Jones

Nottingham Forest have pipped Manchester United and Arsenal in the race to sign Brazilian hot-prospect Danilo.

They are about to seal an £18million deal for the 21-yer-old Palmeiras midfielder after he completed a medical yesterday.

Newcastle monitoring Fresneda

Monday 16 January 2023 15:08 , Michael Jones

Newcastle are looking at highly-rated Spanish full-back Ivan Fresneda.

Chief scout Steve Nixon watched Fresneda play for Real Valladolid against Real Madrid last month and Newcastle staff are keen to sign the 18-year-old ahead of competition from Arsenal as well as other interested parties.

Fresneda’s agent Luis Bardaji was in London at the weekend and is anticipating an offer with the teenager’s buy-out clause around £8.8million.

Arsenal on pace to beat ‘Invincibles’ Premier League record

Monday 16 January 2023 15:00 , Michael Jones

Arsenal’s win over Tottenham took them to their biggest Premier League lead since they last won the title and their highest points total at this stage of a season.

With 47 points from 18 games, Mikel Arteta’s side lead second-placed Manchester City by eight points.

Here we look at how their current position compares to past champions and the club’s history.

Arsenal’s previous best record at this stage was 14 wins, two draws and two defeats on their way to the First Division title in 1932-33, which would be worth 44 points when converted to the modern three points for a win system.

Arteta’s side are three points better off than that after 15 wins, draws with Southampton and Newcastle and a solitary loss to Manchester United.

Arsenal on pace to beat ‘Invincibles’ Premier League record

Spurs make Trossard bid

Monday 16 January 2023 14:53 , Michael Jones

Tottenham have made a £12million move for Brighton playmaker Leandro Trossard, according to The Athletic.

The report says that Spurs’ informal bid was turned down and the North London club have not returned with an improved offer yet.

Dejan Kulusevski sends message to Tottenham teammates after Arsenal derby defeat

Monday 16 January 2023 14:45 , Michael Jones

Dejan Kulusevski has told his Tottenham Hotspur teammates not to feel sorry for themselves after Sunday’s derby defeat to Arsenal but acknowledged they are at a loss over their first-half woes.

Premier League leaders Arsenal completed a first double over Spurs in nine years with a comfortable 2-0 win to move 14 points ahead of their rivals after Martin Odegaard’s stunning 25-yard strike backed up Hugo Lloris’ own goal.

The Gunners struck twice in the opening 36 minutes to take control and continue Tottenham’s terrible run of first-half displays. Antonio Conte’s side have not held a half-time lead since October 12 and have conceded the first goal in 11 of their last 14 matches.

Dejan Kulusevski sends message to Tottenham teammates after Arsenal derby defeat

Klopp on Liverpool’s transfer business

Monday 16 January 2023 14:37 , Michael Jones

Jurgen Klopp is currently giving a press conference ahead of Liverpool’s game against Wolves tomorrow night and was asked about transfer business.

“We look outside as well. It is not that we are stubborn [in the transfer market]; that is not how we see it.” he said, “It is about what you can do. Each year is the same.

“If the solutions were out there, doable and available, of course we would buy players. We have an existing squad and it is underperforming but I cannot blame everyone else.

“I have to take responsibility. That is my first concern. We have players, they are just not available.”

‘I could not miss’: Alexander Isak delighted to keep Newcastle on track

Monday 16 January 2023 14:30 , Michael Jones

Record signing Alexander Isak was happy to be in the right place at the right time to keep Newcastle United’s bid for a top-four Premier League finish on track.

The £60million striker came off the bench to head the Magpies to a 1-0 victory over in-form Fulham on Sunday and send them back above Manchester United into third place in the table.

It was the 23-year-old Sweden international’s third goal in four league appearances either side of a four-month injury lay-off, and it could hardly have been better timed with just a minute of normal time remaining.

‘I could not miss’: Alexander Isak delighted to keep Newcastle on track

William Saliba ‘so happy’ at Arsenal as contract talks continue

Monday 16 January 2023 14:23 , Michael Jones

William Saliba insists he is “so happy” at Arsenal as contract talks continue behind the scenes of an increasingly convincing Premier League title bid.

The Gunners sit eight points clear at the summit following a 2-0 derby win at Tottenham on Sunday.

A Hugo Lloris own goal and long-range strike from captain Martin Odegaard secured Arsenal’s first-ever win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and moved them further ahead at the top of the table.

France international Saliba has played a large part in the club’s upturn in fortunes having made his debut at the start of the season following three loan spells away from north London.

William Saliba ‘so happy’ at Arsenal as contract talks continue

Barcelona explore re-signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Monday 16 January 2023 14:15 , Michael Jones

In a sign that they might not be the most well-run club these days, Barcelona want to re-sign Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang from Chelsea.

Barca bought Aubameyang less than 12 months ago from Arsenal, before deciding he was surplus to requirements at the Nou Camp and selling him to Chelsea in the summer to clear the Gabonese striker off their wage books.

Aubameyang signed a two-year contract at Stamford Bridge but the manager who wooed him, Thomas Tuchel, was sacked by the Chelsea board days later and replaced by Graham Potter. The striker has scored only one Premier League goal so far for the Blues.

Now Barca want him back, says the Telegraph, but fear they may face a legal challenge to re-sign a player in this way.

Chelsea eye Caicedo for £75m

Monday 16 January 2023 14:08 , Michael Jones

Chelsea’s spending spree looks set to go on as the club are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Moises Caicedo from Brighton.

Brighton want at least £75m to even consider a sale this month with Chelsea already said to be willing to offer as much £65m+ for the midfielder.

Villa sign Duran

Monday 16 January 2023 14:00 , Michael Jones

Aston Villa have reached an agreement with Chicago Fire for the permanent transfer of 19-year-old striker Jhon Durán. The Colombian teenager scored eight goals and made three assists in 27 appearances for the MLS outfit.

Blackburn interested in Porteous

Monday 16 January 2023 13:52 , Michael Jones

Blackburn Rovers are interested in signing Hibernian defender Ryan Porteous in January.

Porteous is out of contract in the summer and has confirmed he will not sign a new deal with the Easter Road side.

The 23-year-old made his full Scotland debut last September against Ukraine in a 0-0 draw whilst this season Hibs manager Lee Johnston has played Porteous in midfield as well as defence.

Chelsea willing to let Raheem Sterling leave

Monday 16 January 2023 13:45 , Michael Jones

Meanwhile Chelsea have decided they are willing to let Raheem Sterling leave the club, writes Football Insider, having splurged on Mykhailo Mudryk among a whole host of new signings at the club.

The 22-year-old Mudryk, who was announced by the Stamford Bridge club during their Premier League game with Crystal Palace on Sunday, had seemed set for Arsenal as late as Thursday but it was always Chelsea’s intention to go in big for the player, and they followed that through with offers that were simply too good to turn down.

Chelsea have already added striker David Datro Fofana from Molde and centre-back Benoit Badiashile from Monaco in the January window, as Todd Boehly looks to give new boss Graham Potter the tools to turn around the team’s performance. Brazilian youngster Andrey Santos was also added from Vasco da Gama, while Joao Felix joined on loan from Atletico Madrid - only to be sent-off on his debut in the defeat to Fulham.

Now they need to offload at least one of many their forwards, and Sterling, who only joined this summer, could be on the chopping block. Finding a suitor for the 28-year-old and his vast wages could be a challenge, however.

Is Erling Haaland working at Manchester City?

Monday 16 January 2023 13:38 , Michael Jones

It seems an absurd question about a player so far clear in the race for the Golden Boot. But the Norway international was a peripheral figure in Saturday’s 2-1 Premier League derby defeat to Manchester United, having only a couple of half-chances and just 19 touches in the match.

Haaland has now gone three games without a goal – hardly a crisis, particularly as he was only a second-half substitute at Southampton, but a dip by the standards of a player who had 27 in his first 21 outings.

More:

Pep Guardiola admits Erling Haaland shortcoming after Man City setback

Arsenal title run will ‘demand almost perfection’, Mikel Arteta admits

Monday 16 January 2023 13:30 , Michael Jones

Mikel Arteta saw his Arsenal side go eight points clear at the Premier League summit following a deserved win at Tottenham – but insists a successful title tilt will “demand almost perfection” for the rest of the campaign.

A Hugo Lloris own goal and a long-range strike from Martin Odegaard had the Gunners 2-0 ahead at half-time and they saw out an attempted Spurs fightback to secure their first victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

It means, on the back of Manchester City losing at Manchester United on Saturday, that Arsenal have widened their gap at the top of the table ahead of the visit of Erik ten Hag’s Red Devils next Sunday.

Arsenal now have 47 points from their opening 18 games and, with five of the last six champions exceeding 90 points, Arteta knows they have to keep up their electric pace.

Arsenal title run will ‘demand almost perfection’, Mikel Arteta admits

Gonzalez not for sale

Monday 16 January 2023 13:22 , Michael Jones

Fiorentina have told Leicester that attacker Nicolas Gonzalez is not for sale.

It was reported that the Foxes were stepping up their move to sign the £30million-rated Argentine but the Italian side have publicly rebuffed their approach and now look set to keep the 24-year-old.

The forward was a priority target for Leicester who were prepared to make him one of the highest-paid players at the club if they could agree a fee with the Serie A side.

Interest growing in Elanga

Monday 16 January 2023 13:15 , Michael Jones

Anthony Elanga is the subject of plenty of interest with Borussia Dortmund the latest club said to be targeted the Manchester United winger.

That’s according to talkSPORT, which claim that Bournemouth have also been in touch regarding the winger.

The Manchester Evening News also reported last month that Everton were interested in Elanga, who has started just two Premier League games in four-and-a-half months.

Could United’s super sub be heading elsewhere in January?

Arsenal search for forwards after missing out on Mudryk

Monday 16 January 2023 13:08 , Lawrence Ostlere

Arsenal are on the hunt for a new forward after missing out on Ukrainian 22-year-old Mykhailo Mudryk.

Chelsea’s last-minute hijacking of the deal has left the Gunners searching for another option, and have they made contact with Barcelona over the possibility of signing Brazilian winger Raphinha and Spanish forward Ferran Torres, according to 90min.

Spanish outlet Sport reports Barcelona want £100m for Raphinha in order to sell.

Man Utd negotiating for Dumfries

Monday 16 January 2023 13:00 , Michael Jones

Manchester United are apparently in advanced talks with Inter Milan over right-back Denzel Dumfries. The Italian side are reportedly asking for £35m to secure the deal.

Tuttomercato claims Chelsea have also touched base but Bayern Munich are now said to be out of the race.

United have been looking for a right-back to challenge Diogo Dalot as rumours continue to arise that Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s time at Old Trafford could be coming to an end.

No offer has yet been made but the club have learned that Inter are willing to let their Dutch defender leave for the right price.

Liverpool consider January move for Wolves’ Ruben Neves

Monday 16 January 2023 12:52 , Michael Jones

Liverpool are considering moving for Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves now, rather than in the summer, in a bid to solve their disastrous form, writes the Mirror.

The Reds endured a humbling at Brighton on the weekend, losing 3-0 and being played off the pitch by their slick opponents. Jurgen Klopp has had to contend with plenty of injuries this season, particularly in forward positions, but it is in midfield which many observers have identified as major problem.

Mainstays like Jordan Henderson and Thiago Alcantara are in their 30s now while Fabinho is struggling for consistent fitness, and younger players like Fabio Carvalho and Harvey Elliott are still learning on the job.

That means Liverpool are looking to bring in an all-action midfielder in his prime, and Wolves’ Ruben Neves has been identified as a serious option.

Manchester United are again a team led by leaders after Erik ten Hag’s restructuring

Monday 16 January 2023 12:45 , Michael Jones

It has been a triumph of leadership at Old Trafford. That may have been Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s intention when he fast-tracked Harry Maguire to the captaincy, but now Manchester United’s leader is neither the Norwegian nor his chosen skipper. Erik ten Hag used United’s club captain in his ninth successive win but Maguire came on after 89 minutes, just as he had at Wolves.

A fine World Cup may have altered his place in the pecking order at Old Trafford, but in the wrong direction. With Ten Hag picking Luke Shaw as a central defender in the Manchester derby, Maguire now only seems the third-choice left-sided centre-back. At least, as he came on ahead of Victor Lindelof, he may only be second in line on the right. He has begun two league games since the 4-0 shellacking at Brentford and, while his manager may praise him in public, his mind feels made up.

But at a time when the captain is demoted and diminished, they seem to have more leaders than at any point for years. It is partly a product of Ten Hag’s firm grip, of his determination to instil a winning ethos. “Mentality has a lot of elements,” he explained. “One of them is resilience. The determination of this team is progressing a lot in dealing with setbacks, dealing with suffering in painful moments.” Which, after a swift turnaround to overcome Manchester City, United certainly did. A team with a tendency to wilt last season appear to have acquired character.

Man United are again a team led by leaders after Erik ten Hag’s restructuring

Arsenal offered Leandro Trossard from Brighton

Monday 16 January 2023 12:37 , Michael Jones

And, as The Independent has reported, Arsenal have been offered the chance to sign Leandro Trossard from Brighton after the Belgian’s recent fallout with manager Roberto De Zerbi.

It remains to be seen whether Arsenal believe Trossard, 28, is the right fit.

Chelsea short-term successes show they remain a club on mixed wavelengths

Monday 16 January 2023 12:30 , Michael Jones

Graham Potter punched the air at full-time following his side’s narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace. It seemed a fair reaction, given the pressure cooker that is Chelsea at the moment following a winless 2023 up to now.

A worsening injury crisis, big money deals and even bigger contracts have been thrown into a boiling, bubbling pot of new ownership, struggling coach and discontented fans.

Saturday’s win saw all of these issues unfold and more in a bizarre, frustrating and nervous afternoon of football.

The late, great Gianluca Vialli was honoured with a montage of his finest moments and a minute’s applause before the game, with his son and club legends venturing onto the pitch to pay tribute. The current Chelsea players, meanwhile, wore shirts bearing the Italian’s name before kick-off.

Chelsea short-term successes show they remain a club on mixed wavelengths

Lorient set to reject Hammer’s bid for Moffi

Monday 16 January 2023 12:22 , Michael Jones

talkSPORT are reporting that Lorient are set to reject West Ham’s £20m bid for Terem Moffi with the French side valuing the Nigerian international striker at closer to £30m.

West Ham would have to up their offer at least another £5m after add-ons if they want to secure the striker’s services.

Fan who kicked Ramsdale faces ban

Monday 16 January 2023 12:15 , Michael Jones

Tottenham Hotspur have come out and said that the fan who aimed a kick at Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale would face an “immediate ban”.

“We are appalled by the behaviour of a supporter that attempted to attack Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale at the end of today’s match,” said a Tottenham statement.

“Violence in any form has no place in football.

“The club has reviewed its CCTV footage to identify the supporter and will be working with the Met Police, Arsenal and Aaron Ramsdale to take the strongest possible action, including an immediate ban from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.”

West Ham in talks over Moffi

Monday 16 January 2023 12:08 , Michael Jones

West Ham have held further talks with Lorient over a potential £25million deal for striker Terem Moffi.

The proposal is understood to be £20m with a further £5m for Moffi, a Nigeria international, who has scored 12 goals in 18 games this season.

Having arrived at the French club in 2020, the 23-year-old has racked up 59 goals in 135 games and helped them avoid a relegation scrap last season.

His arrival at the London Stadium could boost David Moyes’ team’s attacking capabilities as they look to stave off relegation.

Bournemouth agree deal for Ouattara

Monday 16 January 2023 12:00 , Michael Jones

Bournemouth have agreed a deal with Lorient for winger Dango Ouattara with the fee said to be £20m. He will travel to the UK today to complete his medical and finalise the move.

The 20 year old has scored six goals in 18 Ligue 1 appearances this season having made his debut in August 2021. He also featured in Lorient’s 3-1 defeat to Marseille this weekend.

Bournemouth are hoping to add to their squad in this window and Ouattara’s signing could be the first of many.

Hudson-Odoi to leave Chelsea?

Monday 16 January 2023 11:52 , Michael Jones

Callum Hudson-Odoi could reportedly leave Chelsea for a bargain fee this summer after the arrival of Mykhailo Mudryk.

The winger has just 12 months left on his contract and is currently on loan with Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen. The winger has struggled for opportunities at Stamford Bridge despite featuring in multiple positions and that seems set to continue with the arrival of Mudryk.

Hudson-Odoi has always attracted interest from Germany but seemed determined to make his mark at Chelsea. However since making his first team debut in 2018, he has never started more than 11 games in the league - he hit that mark last season under Thomas Tuchel.

Hudson-Odoi has made 15 appearances, including 11 starts, in all competitions this season after moving to Germany for more regular playing time.

If the winger does not agree an extension with Chelsea over the summer, he will be able to start talking to foreign clubs in January 2024.

The rise of Marcus Rashford – the story behind his stunning goalscoring streak

Monday 16 January 2023 11:45 , Michael Jones

Marcus Rashford continued to drive Manchester United’s renaissance as his latest goal gave his side a memorable win in the Manchester derby on Saturday.

After two seasons of struggle, the 25-year-old has rediscovered his form and has scored in each of his last seven appearances.

Here the PA news agency looks at how the former academy graduate’s season has taken off since the World Cup and how he is now flourishing under new manager Erik ten Hag.

The rise of Marcus Rashford – the story behind his stunning goalscoring streak

Wolves remain in talks for Sarabia and Gomes

Monday 16 January 2023 11:37 , Michael Jones

Talks are ongoing between Wolves and both Paris Saint-Germain and Flamengo over deals for Pablo Sarabia and Joao Gomes respectively.

Negotiations for both players are in the advanced stages but have not yet been fully agreed.

Gomes seems the likelier of the two to get over the line with the player said to be preparing to travel to the UK from Brazil this week, if and when the deal is finalised.

Wolves are optimistic over Sarabia’s potential deal too as the player is said to want to link up again with fellow Spaniard Julen Lopetegui at Molineux.

Arsenal keeping tabs on Raphinha

Monday 16 January 2023 11:30 , Michael Jones

Arsenal are keeping an eye on former Leeds winger, Raphinha, and his ongoing situation at Barcelona. The Gunners failed in their pursuit of Mykhailo Mudryk but the new Chelsea man was not the only forward player the club have been looking at in this window.

Apparently Arsenal are “prepared for an opportunity” to sign Raphinha if it arises. They made a bid for the winger in the summer before he went to the Nou Camp but Raphinha has started just seven games in La Liga this season and there are rumours that Barcelona may be open to letting him leave the club.

Mikhailo Mudryk: Shakhtar to donate £20m of Chelsea transfer fee to Ukrainian soldiers

Monday 16 January 2023 11:22 , Michael Jones

Shakhtar Donetsk will donate more than £20million of the transfer fee received for Mikhailo Mudryk to Ukrainian soldiers.

The 22-year-old forward joined Chelsea for £88m on Sunday after the Blues moved late to hijack a move to Premier League rivals Arsenal.

Shakhtar held out in negotiations for the biggest possible fee with a portion now set to go to “soldiers, defenders and their families” in the ongoing defence against the Russian invasion.

“I want to thank the entire civilised world for helping Ukraine,” club president Rinat Akhmetov said in a statement.

Shakhtar to donate £20m of Mikhailo Mudryk transfer fee to Ukrainian soldiers

Roberto De Zerbi opens door for Leandro Trossard to stay

Monday 16 January 2023 11:15 , Lawrence Ostlere

Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi has spoken on out the Leandro Trossard situation, and said the door is open for the Belgian winger to stay at the Amex.

Does this mean Trossard may be staying, or is it a way of protecting the value of the player? Saying he’s never going to play for you again is a surefire way of cutting the asking price, after all.

Newcastle’s complete extraordinary transformation with ‘more growth to come’

Monday 16 January 2023 11:08 , Lawrence Ostlere

Thirty-eight points. It used to be the sum total of Newcastle’s ambitions for a season in the dog days of Mike Ashley’s reign. It was enough to secure them their Premier League status.

Thirty-eight points. It is Newcastle’s return in the first half of this season. If even the most rudimentary of maths shows it is an average of two per game, it promises to bring them Champions League football. Or, to put it in terms that were more familiar until recently, they are safe from relegation with 19 games to go.

If they are, in effect, twice as good as they used to be with roughly half a new team, and six players who predated their takeover and subsequent spending spree started the win over Fulham, there are other examples of the exponential improvement that threatens to carry them into the European elite.

The 38 points Newcastle have from 19 games is more than three times as many as the 11 they had taken at this stage last season. The 11 goals they have conceded is barely more than a quarter of the 42 they had let in by this point 12 months ago. Eddie Howe’s language tends to be unremarkable, but the numbers are.

“It’s been a really good first half of the season for us,” said the Newcastle manager. “We’ve improved from the start of the season to now. I think there’s still more growth in the team to come.”

Newcastle’s complete extraordinary transformation with ‘more growth to come’

Chelsea short-term successes show they remain a club on mixed wavelengths

Monday 16 January 2023 10:44 , Lawrence Ostlere

Graham Potter punched the air at full-time following his side’s narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace. It seemed a fair reaction, given the pressure cooker that is Chelsea at the moment following a winless 2023 up to now.

A worsening injury crisis, big money deals and even bigger contracts have been thrown into a boiling, bubbling pot of new ownership, struggling coach and discontented fans.

Saturday’s win saw all of these issues unfold and more in a bizarre, frustrating and nervous afternoon of football.

After the on-pitch action had begun, murmurs began: Chelsea had announced the signing of Mykhailo Mudryk 20 minutes into the match.

By Ollie Cooper:

Chelsea short-term successes show they remain a club on mixed wavelengths

Is Erling Haaland working at Manchester City?

Monday 16 January 2023 10:27 , Lawrence Ostlere

It seems an absurd question about a player so far clear in the race for the Golden Boot. But the Norway international was a peripheral figure in Saturday’s 2-1 Premier League derby defeat to Manchester United, having only a couple of half-chances and just 19 touches in the match.

Haaland has now gone three games without a goal – hardly a crisis, particularly as he was only a second-half substitute at Southampton, but a dip by the standards of a player who had 27 in his first 21 outings.

More:

Pep Guardiola admits Erling Haaland shortcoming after Man City setback

Barcelona explore re-signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Monday 16 January 2023 10:12 , Lawrence Ostlere

In a sign that they might not be the most well-run club these days, Barcelona want to re-sign Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang from Chelsea.

Barca bought Aubameyang less than 12 months ago from Arsenal, before deciding he was surplus to requirements at the Nou Camp and selling him to Chelsea in the summer to clear the Gabonese striker off their wage books.

Aubameyang signed a two-year contract at Stamford Bridge but the manager who wooed him, Thomas Tuchel, was sacked by the Chelsea board days later and replaced by Graham Potter. The striker has scored only one Premier League goal so far for the Blues.

Now Barca want him back, says the Telegraph, but fear they may face a legal challenge to re-sign a player in this way.

Liverpool consider move for Wolves’ Ruben Neves

Monday 16 January 2023 09:55 , Lawrence Ostlere

Liverpool are considering moving for Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves now, rather than in the summer, in a bid to solve their disastrous form, writes the Mirror.

The Reds endured a humbling at Brighton on the weekend, losing 3-0 and being played off the pitch by their slick opponents. Jurgen Klopp has had to contend with plenty of injuries this season, particularly in forward positions, but it is in midfield which many observers have identified as major problem.

Mainstays like Jordan Henderson and Thiago Alcantara are in their 30s now while Fabinho is struggling for consistent fitness, and younger players like Fabio Carvalho and Harvey Elliott are still learning on the job.

That means Liverpool are looking to bring in an all-action midfielder in his prime, and Wolves’ Ruben Neves has been identified as a serious option.

Chelsea willing to let Raheem Sterling leave

Monday 16 January 2023 09:42 , Lawrence Ostlere

Meanwhile Chelsea have decided they are willing to let Raheem Sterling leave the club, writes Football Insider, having splurged on Mykhailo Mudryk among a whole host of new signings at the club.

The 22-year-old Mudryk, who was announced by the Stamford Bridge club during their Premier League game with Crystal Palace on Sunday, had seemed set for Arsenal as late as Thursday but it was always Chelsea’s intention to go in big for the player, and they followed that through with offers that were simply too good to turn down.

Chelsea have already added striker David Datro Fofana from Molde and centre-back Benoit Badiashile from Monaco in the January window, as Todd Boehly looks to give new boss Graham Potter the tools to turn around the team’s performance. Brazilian youngster Andrey Santos was also added from Vasco da Gama, while Joao Felix joined on loan from Atletico Madrid - only to be sent-off on his debut in the defeat to Fulham.

Now they need to offload at least one of many their forwards, and Sterling, who only joined this summer, could be on the chopping block. Finding a suitor for the 28-year-old and his vast wages could be a challenge, however.

Arsenal offered Leandro Trossard from Brighton

Monday 16 January 2023 09:23 , Lawrence Ostlere

And, as The Independent has reported, Arsenal have been offered the chance to sign Leandro Trossard from Brighton after the Belgian’s recent fallout with manager Roberto De Zerbi.

It remains to be seen whether Arsenal believe Trossard, 28, is the right fit.

Arsenal search for forwards after missing out on Mudryk

Monday 16 January 2023 09:17 , Lawrence Ostlere

Arsenal are on the hunt for a new forward after missing out on Ukrainian 22-year-old Mykhailo Mudryk.

Chelsea’s last-minute hijacking of the deal has left the Gunners searching for another option, and have they made contact with Barcelona over the possibility of signing Brazilian winger Raphinha and Spanish forward Ferran Torres, according to 90min.

Spanish outlet Sport reports Barcelona want £100m for Raphinha in order to sell.

Transfer news LIVE

Monday 16 January 2023 08:50 , Lawrence Ostlere

Follow all the latest transfer news and rumours from the January window.