The January transfer window is heating up with a major defensive saga potentially brewing in the Premier League. Reports suggest Liverpool are preparing a substantial £78 million bid to sign Dutch defender Micky van de Ven from Tottenham Hotspur.
Major Moves: Defensive Shake-Up and Midfield Swaps
While a deal for Van de Ven is considered more likely in the summer, the speculation highlights Liverpool's intent to bolster their backline. In a potential reciprocal move, Tottenham have shown interest in Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones. Meanwhile, Juventus are reportedly lining up a bid in the region of £13 million to £17 million for Liverpool's Federico Chiesa.
Across North London, Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus has been linked with a return to his boyhood club, Palmeiras. The striker, however, is said to be seeking a new deal with the current league leaders. Arsenal are also credited with "genuine interest" in Inter Milan's Italian full-back Federico Dimarco, whose contract expires in June 2026.
Manchester United and Leeds United's Transfer Targets
Manchester United are actively seeking midfield reinforcements. The Daily Star reports they are monitoring Barcelona's Marc Casadó and are also keen on Sunderland's 20-year-old Noah Sadiki. A potential swap deal could see United's Manuel Ugarte move to the Stadium of Light.
In the Championship, promotion-chasing Leeds United are linked with a £20 million move for Republic of Ireland forward Troy Parrott, who has been excelling at AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands. This potential arrival could accelerate the departure of Joël Piroe, who is a target for Celtic.
Celtic's Battle and Barcelona's Goalkeeper Search
Celtic themselves face a fight to keep hold of midfielder Arne Engels, with RB Leipzig showing interest. Manager Martin O'Neill is reportedly considering a loan move for Lorient's Ivorian striker Mohamed Bamba. The Hoops are also competing with Stoke City for Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.
After a disappointing defeat to Real Sociedad, Barcelona have identified their opponent's goalkeeper, Álex Remiro, as a potential target. With his contract entering its final year this summer, a fee of around €10 million could be enough to secure his signature. This could pave the way for Marc-André ter Stegen to join Girona on loan.
Elsewhere, Bournemouth are determined to keep defender Marcos Senesi despite interest from Barcelona and Juventus, and Ipswich Town are pushing to sign Bristol City's Albanian international Anis Mehmeti to boost their promotion push.
