Transfer Rumours: Real Madrid Lead Adam Wharton Chase as Premier League Clubs Circle
The January 2026 transfer window is heating up with a flurry of speculation across Europe's top leagues, as clubs scramble to strengthen their squads for the second half of the season. From Real Madrid's pursuit of English talent to Premier League clubs eyeing bargains, today's rumours are packed with potential moves that could reshape teams.
Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton Attracts European Heavyweights
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in the current transfer market, with Real Madrid reportedly leading the race for his signature. The 21-year-old, known for his reliable left foot and composed performances, is also drawing serious interest from several Premier League giants, including Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United.
Palace are said to be open to selling Wharton at the end of the season, but they have set a starting price of £65 million, reflecting his growing value and importance to the team. This development comes as Selhurst Park continues to be a hub of transfer activity, with the club seemingly willing to part with key assets for the right fee.
Liverpool's Left-Back Situation Sparks Forest Interest
Nottingham Forest are maintaining their interest in Liverpool's Kostas Tsimikas, despite the Greek defender currently being on loan at Roma. With Andy Robertson firmly established as Liverpool's first-choice left-back and the recent arrival of Milos Kerkez, Tsimikas finds himself further down the pecking order at Anfield.
Roma are willing to terminate his loan early, provided they can secure a replacement, as Tsimikas has managed only four Serie A starts this season under manager Gian Piero Gasperini. Forest's persistent pursuit highlights their desire to bolster their defensive options, though any deal would depend on Liverpool's willingness to negotiate.
Sunderland Hold Firm on Noah Sadiki Amid Manchester United Admiration
Sunderland are clinging tightly to Noah Sadiki, the 21-year-old DR Congo midfielder, amid reported admiration from Manchester United. The Black Cats have rejected approaches, including a potential player-plus-cash deal involving Manuel Ugarte, as they value Sadiki highly after his £15 million move from Union Saint-Gilloise.
Sadiki's value has reportedly doubled since his arrival, and with him starting every Premier League match under Régis Le Bris (barring Afcon commitments), Sunderland appear in no rush to cash in. This stance underscores their commitment to building a competitive squad for the future.
Aston Villa Face Midfield Crisis After Boubacar Kamara Injury
Unai Emery's Aston Villa are confronting a significant midfield dilemma following Boubacar Kamara's injury in their FA Cup win against Tottenham Hotspur. The club fears the standout performer could miss the rest of the season, leaving a gaping hole in their lineup.
With Villa sitting third in the Premier League and daring to glance at Arsenal seven points ahead, replacing Kamara's pivotal role has become a pressing priority. Emery is now scouring the market for reinforcements, with Ruben Loftus-Cheek among the silhouettes emerging from the injury abyss as a potential target.
Other Transfer Tidbits Across Europe
Elsewhere in the rumour mill, Napoli are seeking fresh width for manager Antonio Conte and have added Real Betis winger Abdessamad Ezzalzouli to a shortlist that already includes Raheem Sterling and Daniel Maldini. The 24-year-old Morocco international is admired for his close control and untapped potential.
At West Ham, James Ward-Prowse appears headed for an exit after falling out of favour under Nuno Espírito Santo, having not played since September. A permanent transfer seems unlikely due to scarce Premier League suitors and Championship budget constraints, making a loan move the most probable outcome, with Burnley showing interest.
Veteran striker Robert Lewandowski, 37, has "very concrete" options in MLS and the Saudi Pro League as his contract expires in the summer, after scoring 112 goals in 170 games for his current club. Meanwhile, Vinícius Júnior has dismissed transfer gossip by reaffirming his commitment to stay at Real Madrid, citing a harmonious relationship with president Florentino Pérez.
In Scotland, Arne Engels is expected to remain at Celtic despite Bundesliga interest from Leipzig, as the Belgian midfielder is content under returning manager Martin O'Neill and focused on helping retain the Scottish Premiership title.
