Transfer news LIVE: City sign midfielder as Man Utd, Arsenal and Chelsea eye Newcastle striker, Mbappe contract

The January transfer window has been slow to get going this month, but might be start to heat up as clubs try to bolster their squads for the second half of the season.

Callum Wilson is reported to be on the market as Newcastle United look to balance the books, with Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea all alerted to the availability of a proven Premier League goalscorer. Kalvin Phillips is on the verge of completing his loan move to West Ham United, as the Hammers look to bolster their midfield.

Chelsea are prepared to let striker Armando Broja leave, but only for a substantial fee of £50m, with Ivan Toney a key name on both the Blues’ and Arsenal’s wishlists. Brighton striker Evan Ferguson has also been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, although the Seagulls have put a high price on the forward, valuing the teenager as over £100m.

Follow the live blog for all the latest news, rumours and updates in the transfer market and find the latest football betting odds and tips here.

Key Points

• Man City beat Barcelona to sign Argentine wonderkid Claudio Echeverri

• Callum Wilson available at cut-price as Man Utd, Arsenal and Chelsea consider options

• Kylian Mbappe set for €70m per year salary at Real Madrid

• Kalvin Phillips ends Man City nightmare with Premier League loan move

• Jurgen Klopp announces shock decision to leave Liverpool

DONE DEAL! Brentford bring in goalkeeper

16:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Brentford have completed the signing of goalkeeper Hákon Valdimarsson from Elfsborg. The Iceland international boosts Thomas Frank’s options between the sticks and arrives on a long-term deal having impressed in the Allsvenskan last season.

Brentford head coach Thomas Frank said: “I’m very, very happy that we’ve managed to sign Hákon; there was competition from a lot of other clubs, including some in the Premier League. We are growing as a club, and we have proven that we make players better.

“Hákon is an exciting keeper. He is good at dominating his box, claiming crosses from set-pieces and in open play. His distribution is also at a high level. He fits the way we want to play, which is very important.”

Six starts, five trophies: The Kalvin Phillips paradox provides a valuable lesson

15:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Kalvin Phillips is probably just getting settled in at West Ham, acquainting himself with his new colleagues as he prepares to push for the consistent football he has lacked since joining Manchester City. That a player of such considerable ability has started only twice this season is curious - this might be a move that works for all parties, as Richard Jolly explores:

Six starts, five trophies: The Kalvin Phillips paradox provides a valuable lesson

Newcastle United are the world’s richest football club – so why can’t they spend any money?

15:30 , Richard Jolly

Jurgen Klopp has been vindicated in many a way this season but one of his comments has not aged well. “There are three clubs in world football who can do what they want financially,” he said in October 2022. No names were proffered but the sense, including at the Etihad Stadium, was that he meant Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United.

On Tyneside, they must rather wish that was true. Newcastle have deep pockets and vaunting ambition. They also have constraints that mean they are unable to access most of their wealth. Their transfer window has brought no expenditure thus far, not through a lack of willingness but a lack of leeway within financial parameters. For clubs such as Klopp’s Liverpool and Tottenham, who have long looked to break even and for sustainable models, it may prove that Financial Fair Play is financially working. Others may see it as the established order’s glass ceiling holding firm, preventing Newcastle from vaulting upwards.

Why the world’s richest football club can’t spend any money

Highly-rated Antonio Nusa to leave Club Brugge in the summer

15:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A number of top European clubs, including Tottenham and Chelsea, have Club Brugge youngster Antonio Nusa on their radar. The Belgian side are not keen to part with the 18-year-old Norway international, but recognise the realities of the situation, with manager Ronny Deila confirming that Nusa is all but certain to leave in the summer even if he remains at the club this January.

“If it doesn’t happen now, it will be this summer,” Deila said.

“The most important thing is that he stays focused and wants to get better. I think he is handling [the speculation] well, because he is still young.

“Now, a decision has to be made and he has to do the best he can for us. I hope and think we will keep him until June. And then, he will be even more ready to leave.”

Daniel Munoz set to join Crystal Palace from Genk

15:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Crystal Palace are set to secure the signing of Colombia right-back Daniel Munoz from Genk, according to reports.

The 27-year-old has won 22 caps for his country and will boost Roy Hodgson’s defensive options. Palace, who had a bid knocked back earlier in the week, will pay a reported £8.5m.

Erik ten Hag confirms Manchester United transfer plans

14:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Erik ten Hag says financial fair play restrictions will prevent Manchester United from acting in the January transfer window to fill the “gap” in attack left by Anthony Martial’s extended absence.

This has been a quiet month across the board and the Red Devils have focused on streamlining the squad rather than bolstering it.

Jadon Sancho, Donny van de Beek and Hannibal Mejbri are among those to have left on loan, with United always expected to do little to nothing in terms of signings.

And not even the fact that Martial has been ruled out until April after undergoing surgery on a groin injury is likely to change things due to Premier League profit and sustainability rules.

“I looked but there is no space,” United boss Ten Hag said. “No space on FFP to do something about this lack of quantity in the striker position.

“Of course, we have (Marcus) Rashford who can play as a striker, I think also we have some other alternatives, creative.

“It’s clear now Anthony is out for a couple of months. It’s a gap in our squad. Clear.”

PA

Newcastle may have to sell Joelinton this summer, says boss Eddie Howe

14:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Eddie Howe has admitted that star midfielder Joelinton could be sold this summer as Newcastle wrestle with financial restrictions.

The Magpies have spent the last week resisting overtures from Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich for England full-back Kieran Trippier, while strikers Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron have also been linked with moves away from Tyneside after chief executive Darren Eales revealed that the club might have to trade players to comply with Premier League profit and sustainability rules.

Negotiations over a contract extension for Joelinton, who has 18 months remaining on his existing deal, have stalled, prompting suggestions the £40million Brazilian may have played his last game for the club after undergoing surgery which will rule him out for the rest of the season.

Asked if that could prove the case, head coach Howe replied: “I’m not a fortune-teller and I certainly hope that is not the case. There is a possibility that could be the case, but I don’t know.

“Eighteen months [left on a contract] is a vulnerable time for a club. The club will need to tie Joe down to a longer-term contract or there is a possibility he will be sold in the summer. That is just the reality of the situation.”

Newcastle may have to sell Joelinton this summer, says boss Eddie Howe

Manchester United transfer news: Could a new defender be on Erik ten Hag’s wishlist?

14:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle

With Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s investment in the club expected to be confirmed in early February, Manchester United could yet be on the lookout for additions in the January transfer window.

Erik ten Hag’s side have slipped way from the chase for a top four place and look in need of a boost to the Dutchman’s options despite a significant number of arrivals over the last couple of years.

Defensively, the reliance on Jonny Evans and occasional deployment of Luke Shaw centrally suggest a centre-half might be a wise signing, while Jadon Sancho departure on loan could free up a place for a new winger.

Here are some of the latest Manchester United transfer rumours.

Man Utd transfer news: Araujo, De Ligt, Olise and more

Join our free Indy Football WhatsApp Channel for Premier League news, transfer gossip and match insights

14:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Join our Indy Football WhatsApp Channel for Premier League news and transfer gossip

Curtis Davies considering his future

13:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Curtis Davies is set to return to Pride Park this weekend for the first time leaving Derby last summer. The Cheltenham defender is the second-oldest outfield player in English football and is now considering his next steps in the sport, as he explains to Miguel Delaney...

Curtis Davies on an unbreakable bond with Derby and retirement

DONE DEAL! Chelsea confirm Mayra Ramirez signing in major coup

13:44 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A bit of WSL transfer news, and a pretty sizeable arrival at Chelsea as Emma Hayes prepares to bid farewell. Mayra Ramirez, the Colombia forward, has been signed from Levante for a club record fee. Ramirez’s capture should help compensate for the loss of Sam Kerr, who has been ruled out for the rest of the season after tearing her ACL.

Jonny leaves Wolves by mutual consent

13:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle

News from the Midlands, and the departure of Jonny Otto from Wolves. The Spanish wing-back enjoyed a promising start at Molineux but has struggled to get back to his best after serious injury, and will seek pastures new to try and rediscover top form.

Wolves’ sporting director Matt Hobbs said: “Jonny hasn’t played a lot of football over the last couple of years, so he wants to go and play and we’re happy to give him that chance. He’s been a great servant to us, so we tried to make this happen for him as quickly as possible.”

Mohamed Diomande excited after joining Rangers

13:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Mohamed Diomande spoke of his excitement at signing for Rangers from FC Nordsjaelland on a loan deal until the end of the season, with an obligation for the Ibrox club to buy in the summer for an undisclosed fee.

The 22-year-old Ivorian midfielder will arrive in Glasgow once his work permit application has been confirmed and the deal, which runs to 2028, is subject to international clearance.

Diomande becomes the second signing of the January transfer window for Philippe Clement’s side following the arrival of Fabio Silva on loan from Wolves earlier this month.

Diomande told the club’s official website: “I am very excited to join such a historic club and I’ve heard a lot of good things about the team.

“I had a lot of great conversations with the manager who told me about his plans for the team and where I would fit in, which helped convince me that Rangers was right for me.

“I really can’t wait to get started, join up with my teammates, and run out at Ibrox for the very first time in front of the Rangers supporters.”

Could Mohamed Salah leave Liverpool after Jurgen Klopp’s departure?

13:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The big news of the day, of course, is Jurgen Klopp’s departure from Liverpool, which could have ramifiications in the transfer market, too. Mohamed Salah has previously been linked with a mega-money move to Saudi Arabia, but has resisted even the super-sized deals on offer - could Klopp’s exit prompt a re-think?

Al-Nassr target Manchester United duo to join Cristiano Ronaldo

12:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Al-Nassr – the team of Cristiano Ronaldo –are planning to offer Manchester United a pair of “audacious” bids for midfielder Casemiro and defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka, the Daily Mail reports, in the wake of Tottenham’s refusal to offload Emerson Royal to the Saudi league outfit.

Al-Nassr target Manchester United duo to join Cristiano Ronaldo

River Plate youngster makes Manchester City move - but will not arrive until 2025

12:32 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Manchester City have completed a move for highly-rated Argentinian midfielder Claudio Echeverri from River Plate, the Premier League champions have announced.

The 18-year-old, who is understood to have cost City in the region of £12.5million with add-ons, has signed a contract until the summer of 2028, but will remain at River until January next year.

River Plate’s Claudio Echeverri makes Manchester City move

West Ham could sell Pablo Fornals to fund further signings

12:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Kalvin Phillips’s arrival leaves West Ham well-stocked in central midfield, but David Moyes could yet eye more additions to his squad before January is over. The Guardian suggest that Spaniard Pablo Fornals could be moved on to raise capital - the attacking midfielder is out of contract at the end of the season and could well return to La Liga.

Eddie Howe describes Callum Wilson speculation as ‘unfounded'

12:12 , Harry Latham-Coyle

That speculation connecting Callum Wilson with a move away from Newcastle has intensified in the last couple of days, though Eddie Howe this morning suggested that the rumours were entirely “unfounded” - though conceding that Wilson does have “big ambitions”...

“It’s been a strange one. A lot of speculation and a lot of it unfounded … In every conversation, he’s 100% committed. No part of him is looking elsewhere.

“He’s got big ambitions and we want to keep him here. But some things are out of our control. The club is acting with the long-term interests of the club and they have to. Let’s see what happens.”

Transfer rumours: Newcastle may sell Callum Wilson this week and Arsenal receive new Emile Smith Rowe offer

12:05 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Rumours: Newcastle could sell Wilson this week, Arsenal receive new Smith Rowe bid

Kieran Trippier ‘committed’ to Newcastle after Bayern Munich bids – Eddie Howe

11:57 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is confident Kieran Trippier will stay with the club after they resisted Bayern Munich’s attempts to prise him away.

The 33-year-old England full-back was the subject of three separate offers from the Bundesliga champions earlier this week, all of which were rejected by the Magpies.

Howe, who has also seen strikers Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron linked with moves away from Tyneside before next Thursday’s transfer deadline, insisted Trippier – the first man signed by the club’s new owners following their takeover in October 2021 – never wanted to leave.

Kieran Trippier ‘committed’ to Newcastle after Bayern Munich bids – Eddie Howe

Villa loan midfielder to Napoli

11:45 , Karl Matchett

Aston Villa’s Leander Dendoncker is off to Italy!

The Premier League club have confirmed the versatile performer has joined Napoli on loan for the remainder of the campaign. There is no mention of purchase options in the announcement.

Ipswich chase striker to boost promotion push

11:30 , Karl Matchett

Ipswich Town have been flying in the Championship and sit second in the table as they look for a long-awaited return to the Premier League - though they have stuttered of late.

To push their ambitions over the line, East Anglian Daily Times report that they want to sign AFC Wimbledon forward Ali Al-Hamadi, who has scored 13 times in League Two this term.

Joelinton could leave Newcastle in summer

11:15 , Karl Matchett

There have been rumours over Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson leaving Newcastle, but now Eddie Howe says Joelinton might also be sold in the summer too - as he only has 18 months left on his contract right now.

“It’s a possibility [he could leave] but I hope that’s not the case. I want him to stay,” Howe said.

“Before a player signs a contract he has to be happy with everything and so it’s a possibility he’ll be sold in the summer.”

Jurgen Klopp announces shock decision to resign from Liverpool at end of season

10:57 , Karl Matchett

Liverpool have announced that Jurgen Klopp is to resign as manager and depart the club at the end of the 2023/24 campaign.

The German boss arrived at Anfield in 2015 and has reestablished the club as a domestic and European force, reaching three Champions League finals since then - winning one - as well as winning the Premier League title in 2020.

His departure is all the more unexpected as he embarked on a rebuild of the playing squad over the summer, with Liverpool currently sat top of the league table, into the Carabao Cup final and potentially on course for a four-trophy tilt as they continue in the Europa League and FA Cup as well.

FULL DETAILS:

Jurgen Klopp announces shock decision to resign from Liverpool

Six starts, five trophies: The Kalvin Phillips paradox provides a valuable lesson

10:45 , Karl Matchett

There was a moment a few weeks ago when Pep Guardiola expressed his fondness for Kalvin Phillips. Sadly for the staple of Manchester City benches, it was as a person rather than a footballer. “He is a lovely guy,” said Guardiola. He meant it, too: Phillips is a popular figure at the Etihad Stadium. And yet, as Guardiola had said in the same answer: “I visualise some things and visualise the team and things and I struggle to see him.”

Not that Phillips was seen much in his team, which makes his loan move to West Ham all the more necessary. He started two games this season, one in a Carabao Cup defeat, the other a Champions League dead rubber. He began two in the Premier League over his 18 months at City, both after the title was won, the latter on the final day when the first-choice midfield and attack were all rested for the FA Cup and Champions League finals.

In a paradox, Phillips’ City career was both so successful and so unsuccessful that it has only brought one more start than trophies: six to five. An otherwise all-conquering City side lost three of those six games, too. On the bigger stages, he became one of the game’s most decorated spectators.

Six starts, five trophies: The Kalvin Phillips paradox provides a valuable lesson

Kalvin Phillips completes West Ham loan move

10:27 , Karl Matchett

Kalvin Phillips has completed his loan move from Manchester City to West Ham, the clubs have announced.

The England midfielder will spend the rest of the season at the London Stadium.

The 28-year-old has been frustrated by a lack of game time at City since joining the club from Leeds in the summer of 2022.

Kalvin Phillips completes West Ham loan move

Ireland make fresh approach to England U21 boss Lee Carsley over vacant manager role

09:30 , Karl Matchett

The Football Association of Ireland are again hopeful of persuading top candidate Lee Carsley of leaving the England under-21 job to become senior manager of the Irish team.

A highly-rated coach, he is understood to be newly open to the role after initially proving resistant when it first became available towards the end of last year, although there is still some way to go until there is anything close to an agreement. Sources within the Football Association were playing down stories that Carsley is set to be announced as Republic of Ireland manager next week, and it is understood that there has been no official approach.

The 49-year-old’s contract nevertheless leaves him free to talk to suitors with no issue in terms of compensation. An Irish delegation travelled to the UK to meet candidates last week, while Roy Keane suggested he is open to the position recently.

Ireland make fresh approach to England U21 boss Carsley over vacant manager role

Real Madrid knock-on effects of Mbappe: Benzema and Vinicius

09:15 , Karl Matchett

Two more Real Madrid-themed rumours doing the rounds this morning are similarly attached to Mbappe’s deal.

First, Bild are claiming that Los Blancos’ offer is for “only” around €35m (£29.8m) a year, whereas the forward was looking for about double that amount.

As such, manager Carlo Ancelotti has asked the club to re-sign Karim Benzema instead, with rumours abound that he wants out of Saudi Arabia - that report comes from Spanish outlet Sport.

And finally, the Mirror say if Mbappe does go to the Bernabeu, Madrid will make financial room for the deal by offloading Vinicius Jr - with Manchester United in pole position to land him. Quite whether the Brazilian will want to head to the team currently eighth in the Premier League, behind West Ham and Brighton, is up for debate.

Kylian Mbappe yet to decide on his future

08:45 , Karl Matchett

French forward Kylian Mbappe has his pick of where to go this summer, but he’s in no hurry to decide.

Of course, the list of clubs who can afford the wages his talent commands is a small one, but he could feasibly opt for wherever he wanted and lower his demands accordingly - but right now it appears to be stay at PSG or go to Real Madrid.

The latter have made him an offer, say ESPN, while current club Paris Saint-Germain have also made a new attempt to get him to stay.

Manchester United monitoring Ivan Toney’s return

08:15 , Lawrence Ostlere

Manchester United have little in the way of immediate funds, but a summer move for Ivan Toney could be on the cards, according to The Athletic.

Toney scored against Nottingham Forest in his first match since returning to Brentford’s first team since his gambling ban, and the striker is one of the most sought-after players around, with Chelsea and Arsenal also reported to monitoring his progress.

Callum Wilson available at cut-price as Man Utd, Arsenal and Chelsea consider options

07:44 , Lawrence Ostlere

Callum Wilson could be snapped up for a “competitive price” price, reports the Evening Standard, as Newcastle United seek to balance the books and meet the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.

Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea have all been notified to his availability. Wilson has scored 46 goals in 102 games for Newcastle.

On recent links with a move abroad, Wilson recently told his own Footballer’s Football Podcast: “It’s January. The window is open and there is always speculation with players, not just regarding myself but with everyone else in the squad as well. I haven’t got much more to say than that.”

It follows the news that Bayern Munich have pulled out of a bid to sign Kieran Trippier, after feeling that Newcastle’s price was too high.

Arsenal receive new Emile Smith Rowe offer

07:31 , Karl Matchett

This morning’s transfer news round-up includes news of a bid for Emile Smith Rowe and Erik ten Hag no longer getting a say on Manchester United’s incoming deals.

Rumours: Newcastle could sell Wilson this week, Arsenal receive new Smith Rowe bid

Kylian Mbappe set for €70m per year salary at Real Madrid

06:55 , Lawrence Ostlere

Kylian Mbappe is closing in on a record transfer to Real Madrid which would see the Mbappe family earn a tidy €400m, according to SportBild.

Mbappe has been linked with Madrid for several years but his dream move looks closer than ever, as Real Madrid prepare to fork out vast sums to secure the World Cup winner for the long term.

Mbappe has demanded he is allowed to play at both Euro 2024 and the Paris Olympics this summer, according to Caught Offside, as negotiations continue.

Nuno hoping for busy end to Forest’s transfer window

05:22 , Lawrence Ostlere

Nuno Espirito Santo says Nottingham Forest have to be “busy” in the transfer market between now and next week’s deadline.

The Forest boss is looking to trim his bloated squad considerably and any new signings are dependent on getting players out first.

The January transfer window shuts next Thursday and Nuno is keen for plenty of action.

“Has to be busy, definitely. We have to take care of a lot of situations,” he said ahead of Friday’s FA Cup fourth-round trip to Bristol City.

“Ideally we want things done sooner rather than later. That is what you want, but sometimes it is not possible.

“We have to be patient and understand the situation because there are two parts involved - the players we want to bring in and the targets we already have and have to work on, and at the same time the players going out.

“For me, the most important part is to try to find the best solutions for our players, because some of them need to play and some of them need a different project.

“We don’t want to push anybody. That takes time because you have a lot of people and parts involved - the club wanting the player, agents, us, the player. Putting all those things together and finding the perfect situation takes time.

“It is finding the right places and the right options for the players going out, because we want them to continue and to proceed in a good way.”

Pochettino hails Palmer signing

03:55 , Lawrence Ostlere

Defender Malo Gusto is also unavailable for the game with Villa, but both he and Nkunku could return for Chelsea’s next league game with Liverpool on Wednesday.

One signing who has made an immediate impact is Cole Palmer, who arrived from Manchester City in September and has scored nine league goals at Chelsea and netted two in their League Cup semi-final 6-1 win over Middlesbrough on Tuesday.

“We are optimistic always when we sign a player. It’s true he’s doing fantastic,” Pochettino said.

“After six or seven months he’s doing a very good job. We’re so happy with his impact. He is helping the team to achieve things that we wanted.”

Ben Chilwell started the game against Middlesbrough, and came on as a substitute in Chelsea’s last league game having been out since September with a hamstring injury, but is not certain to start against Villa.

“We are assessing him to see if he can cope with another game in three days,” Pochettino said.

“It’s not a mental problem. It’s not only convincing him to trust his body, it’s to trust with us and the way we work, but he’s always very optimistic.

“We need to be careful, the player always wants to play.”

Chelsea will face Liverpool in the League Cup final and now hope to progress in the FA Cup, but they host a Villa side who came away from Stamford Bridge with a 1-0 league win back in September.

Blackburn reject Crystal Palace approach for midfielder Adam Wharton

03:25 , Lawrence Ostlere

Blackburn have rejected Crystal Palace’s £18.5million offer for Adam Wharton.

The offer falls well short of Rovers’ valuation of the midfielder, the PA news agency understands.

Palace’s bid was a guaranteed £15million with the Eagles now weighing up whether to return with an improved offer.

Any bid will need to include a loan back to Rovers for the rest of the season given Palace have made their initial move with just a week to go before the transfer deadline and it would leave Blackburn with little time to source a replacement.

Palace have also been linked with Genk’s Daniel Munoz with boss Roy Hodgson confirming he had watched the midfielder on video.

Wharton - an England Under-20 international - has made 29 appearances this season, scoring once, having only made his Blackburn debut at the start of last season after joining the club when he was six years old.

The 19-year-old has impressed with his maturity this term, despite Rovers’ disappointing form in the Championship.

Jon Dahl Tomasson’s side are 17th, 10 points adrift of the play-off places and host Wrexham in the FA Cup fourth round on Monday.

Blackburn have already rejected two bids of £1million and £1.5million for striker Sam Gallagher from Ipswich this month.

West Ham set to push out Benrahma

01:44 , Lawrence Ostlere

Hammers boss David Moyes is looking to offload players with Algeria winger Said Benrahma likely to leave before the transfer window closes.

Ajax’s Steven Bergwijn is a potential replacement for Benrahma with Moyes keen to build on West Ham’s strong first half of the season.

Maddison back for Spurs in boost to Postecoglou

Thursday 25 January 2024 23:44 , Lawrence Ostlere

James Maddison is “in a good place” and ready to start for Tottenham Hotspur in their home FA Cup fourth round clash with Premier League champions Manchester City on Friday, manager Ange Postecoglou said.

Maddison made an immediate impact when he joined the North Londoners from relegated Leicester City last June but the England midfielder has been out since November with an ankle injury.

“He’s trained all week and he is fine. He is available and ready to start,” Postecoglou told reporters.

“When someone is available I assume they are ready to start. Whether they do or not depends on what I see with everyone else tomorrow and I usually make those decisions game day.

“The beauty of it is he’s got through the week really well and ready to go.”

Guardiola: ‘I feel responsible for Phillips’ exit'

Thursday 25 January 2024 22:29 , Lawrence Ostlere

City boss Guardiola admits he feels responsible for Phillips’ lack of game time and hopes he sees more action with the Hammers.

Guardiola said at a press conference: “Hopefully he can play the minutes he deserves and I couldn’t give to him.

“I wish him (well). I’ve said many times, he’s an exceptional human being and a football player, otherwise he wouldn’t be in the national team. Hopefully he can prove what he really is.

“Of course, if I give him 10-15 games in a row he would be good, but I didn’t give them to him and I feel so responsible for that. But, at the same time, I am honest with myself. I have players at my disposal, a squad, and I have to decide what we are looking for.

“All I can say is I am so grateful for his behaviour on and off the pitch and hopefully he can find minutes, and next season we will see what happens.”

Phillips undergoing medical before West Ham switch

Thursday 25 January 2024 22:05 , Lawrence Ostlere

Kalvin Phillips is undergoing a medical at West Ham on Thursday ahead of his loan switch from Manchester City.

The England midfielder has agreed a move to the London Stadium until the end of the season.

West Ham will have an option to buy Phillips once the loan deal is over.

The PA news agency understands the loan deal will be announced either later on Thursday or on Friday morning.

Phillips joined City from Leeds for £45million on a six-year contract in July 2022.

But the 28-year-old has never managed to hold down a regular spot in Pep Guardiola’s side and has not started a single Premier League match this season.

Crystal Palace and Newcastle were also interested in Phillips but he has opted for West Ham, who are currently sixth in the table and in the last 16 of the Europa League.

Phillips knows he needs game time with Euro 2024 coming up this summer.

Dyche ‘not aware’ of need for Everton to sell players

Thursday 25 January 2024 21:55 , Lawrence Ostlere

Dyche added that he saw it as “very likely” that any incomings would be on loan.

Ben Godfrey, who has made only three appearances for Everton this season, is another player to have featured in transfer talk, and when asked about the defender, Dyche said: “Ben’s going along very well, his professional attitude is outstanding. He’s well thought of in the group.

“He hasn’t had as much game time and he’s frustrated by that quite obviously, but not frustrated with me and the situation - he’s frustrated to not play. But he’s a fantastic pro and continues pushing himself and the group, that’s what kind of guy he is.”

Dyche revealed Andre Gomes, scorer of the winner in the 1-0 replay victory against Crystal Palace at Goodison Park last week that set up Saturday’s fourth-round tie at the same venue, is a major doubt due to a calf issue, with Everton “waiting on news of how long he’ll be out”.

Seamus Coleman (hamstring) and Ashley Young are not expected to feature either and Doucoure (hamstring) is a definite absentee, while Dele Alli has undergone a groin operation.

Dyche said of Alli: “Unfortunately he has required surgery. It was a bit of a debate on whether to or not, which is why it took some time. Now he’ll be recovering from that. There’s no timescales at this time, we’re just waiting for it to develop. The early signs are good at this time.”

Dyche ‘not aware’ of need for Everton to sell players

Thursday 25 January 2024 21:26 , Lawrence Ostlere

Everton boss Sean Dyche says he has not been told that the club need to sell players during the current transfer window.

A number of Dyche’s squad are being linked with moves away, including key midfield pair Abdoulaye Doucoure and Andre Onana.

Everton have appealed after being hit in November with a 10-point penalty for breaching profit and sustainability rules for the assessment period up to 2021-22, and last week the Premier League announced the Toffees had confirmed a PSR breach for the period up to 2022-23.

Meanwhile, the league is still to ratify a proposed takeover of the Merseyside outfit by American investment firm 777 Partners.

Asked at a press conference ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup clash with Luton whether Everton’s financial circumstances means some players may have to move on, Dyche said: “No - certainly not what I’m aware of at this moment in time. Certainly nothing has been promoted to me with that thought.

“We want to keep all the best players here the best we can and make sure we’re trying - even though it’s tricky circumstances, that’s clear - to at least manage the group we’ve got, and then build on it where we can, if the right situation occurs where there can be some form of getting a deal done.

“But obviously, it is quite a difficult window, we’ve seen that not just for us, we’ve seen that with the amount of money spent compared to other windows, very, very low at the minute.”

PSG sign Brazilian teen Moscardo from Corinthians

Thursday 25 January 2024 20:15 , Lawrence Ostlere

Paris St Germain have signed Brazilian 18-year-old midfielder Gabriel Moscardo from Corinthians, the Ligue 1 club said on Thursday.

He has signed a contract with PSG until 2028 and is immediately being loaned back to Corinthians until the end of the season.

Moscardo, who joined Corinthians last season, has played 18 games in Brazil’s top flight Serie A. He signed for an undisclosed fee which according to Brazilian media would be around 20 million euros ($21.66 million), with an additional 2 million in bonuses.

“I’m looking forward to joining up with the squad and to meeting the team and the coaching staff, and I hope to win many trophies with Les Rouge et Bleu and to make the fans happy,” Moscardo said in a statement

PSG are top of the table, eight points ahead of Nice in second place.

Man Utd target Barcelona defender Araujo

Thursday 25 January 2024 19:24 , Lawrence Ostlere

Sky in Germany are reporting that Manchester United have their sights on Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo.

Any potential deal would probably be made for the summer - as a possible replacement for Raphael Varane - but the club have opened discussions with the Spanish giants over the availability of a move in January.

One hold-up may be due to United’s financial restraints. Barca have reported issued a £69m price tag in order to sanction a winter move.

The 24-year-old Argentina international has played 20 times for Barcelona this season and apparantly does not want to leave the club.

Elsewhere, United are said to be interested in Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee though this interest is in the early stages.

Mohamed Salah injury ‘more serious than first thought’

Thursday 25 January 2024 18:36 , Lawrence Ostlere

Mohamed Salah’s hamstring injury is worse than was initially thought and could keep him out for four weeks, his agent has said.

It means Liverpool’s hopes of getting their top scorer back for their double header against Chelsea and Arsenal next week are over and could result in him missing their next six games.

Salah’s Africa Cup of Nations is probably over unless Egypt, who needed to avoid defeat against Cape Verde on Monday to prevent a group-stage exit, can survive without their captain until the final on 11 February and he makes a swift recovery.

The 31-year-old was injured in their 2-2 draw against Ghana on Thursday and had only been ruled out of his country’s next two games.

Mohamed Salah injury ‘more serious than first thought’

Hojbjerg to leave Tottenham?

Thursday 25 January 2024 17:40 , Lawrence Ostlere

More news from Sky Germany but this time regarding Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. The rumour is that the 28-year-old wants to leave during this window due to a lack of game time under Ange Postecoglou.

Florian Plettenberg reported: “That’s his target [to leave in January]. He played 90 minutes against Manchester United but he’s open to leaving Tottenham in the next few days.

“Our understanding is that he wants to play regularly and be a regular starter but it’s very difficult under Postecoglou right now for him at Spurs.

“There is nothing close, there is nothing advanced but we’re hearing Daniel Levy doesn’t want to give him away with an option to buy, he wants to have an obligation to buy or a permanent deal.

“Levy wants to see some money for Hojbjerg.”

Arsenal continue striker search with Gimenez and Mayoral on list

Thursday 25 January 2024 16:55 , Lawrence Ostlere

Arsenal have decided to step up efforts to sign Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord.

The striker, who is also being watched by West Ham, has had an impressive start to the season in the Eredivisie and the Gunners are convinced he could be an asset, according to TEAMtalk.

Gimenez is considered a cheaper, more attainable, striker option in January with Mikel Arteta’s club also keen on Getafe striker, Borja Mayoral.

Arsenal reportedly made a £22m bid for the striker who has scored 12 goals in 19 La Liga matches this season according to The Sun, though there hasn’t been any further updates on that front as of yet.

Brian Brobbey plays down reported reunion with former boss Erik ten Hag

Thursday 25 January 2024 16:04 , Lawrence Ostlere

Erik ten Hag has been linked with another return to his former club Ajax on a hunt for players.

Brian Brobbey made 32 appearances under the current Manchester United manager during his time at the Dutch club, and briefly moved away to Red Bull Leipzig before returning to Ajax.

Brobbey reportedly rejected an offer to join United in 2022, but is still on the manager’s radar.

However, the move has been refuted by the player, who was quoted by Voetbal International saying: “I am not in contact with Erik ten Hag anymore.

“We used to text through WhatsApp, but I think Erik is busy.

“I have a new number as well, so...I know nothing about any interest from Manchester United. I read it on the news, but I am staying in Amsterdam.”

Newcastle scout Atalanta midfielder Ederson

Thursday 25 January 2024 15:25 , Lawrence Ostlere

Newcastle also have their eye on Atalanta’s talented Brazilian, Ederson, according to reports in Italy.

The club sent their head scout to watch the 24-year-old, who has five goals and one assist in Serie A this season playing as a central midfielder, and are keen to pursue a permanent transfer.

But Atalanta are reluctant to sell in January, so the summer looks a more likely moment for any deal.

Arsenal lead race to sign Xavi Simons

Thursday 25 January 2024 15:09 , Lawrence Ostlere

Arsenal are at the front of the queue to sign the highly rated attacking midfielder Xavi Simons from Paris Saint-Germain, according to Sport Bild.

PSG would consider a sale of Simons, who is currently on loan at RB Leipzig, to balance the books. Any deal would need to be completed in the summer.

Simons, who can play in the No 10 role and on both wings, has scored four goals and registered seven assists across 17 Bundesliga games this season, catching the eye of a number of clubs around Europe.

Arsenal and Manchester United interesting in Joshua Zirkzee

Thursday 25 January 2024 14:15 , Lawrence Ostlere

Arsenal and Manchester United are monitoring Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee.

Zirkzee is an imposing 6ft 4in Dutch striker who came through the Bayern Munich academy. The 22-year-old has enjoyed an impressive two and a half years in front of goal, scoring 18 times for Anderlecht on loan in 2021/22, and notching 10 since joining the Bologna in August 2022.

The Daily Express says Erik ten Hag is keeping a close eye on the forward as he looks to bolster Man Utd’s attacking options.

Kalvin Phillips to end Man City nightmare with Premier League loan move

Thursday 25 January 2024 13:55 , Lawrence Ostlere

Manchester City have agreed to loan Kalvin Phillips to West Ham United for the rest of the season.

The move is not yet complete but the midfielder is set to join the Hammers to try and boost his chances of retaining his place in the England squad for Euro 2024.

There could be an option for West Ham to buy Phillips in the summer in the final deal but for now the two clubs are ready to conclude a straight loan move.

Phillips had also attracted interest from a host of other clubs, including Juventus, Newcastle and Crystal Palace, but West Ham saw off competition for his signature.

Kalvin Phillips to end Man City nightmare with Premier League loan move

Kylian Mbappe set for €70m per year salary at Real Madrid

Thursday 25 January 2024 13:32 , Lawrence Ostlere

Kylian Mbappe is closing in on a record transfer to Real Madrid which would see the Mbappe family earn a tidy €400m, according to SportBild.

Mbappe has been linked with Madrid for several years but his dream move looks closer than ever, as Real Madrid prepare to fork out vast sums to secure the World Cup winner for the long term.

Mbappe has demanded he is allowed to play at both Euro 2024 and the Paris Olympics this summer, according to Caught Offside, as negotiations continue.

Callum Wilson available at cut-price as Man Utd, Arsenal and Chelsea consider options

Thursday 25 January 2024 13:10 , Lawrence Ostlere

Callum Wilson could be snapped up for a “competitive price” price, reports the Evening Standard, as Newcastle United seek to balance the books and meet the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.

Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea have all been notified to his availability. Wilson has scored 46 goals in 102 games for Newcastle.

On recent links with a move abroad, Wilson recently told his own Footballer’s Football Podcast: “It’s January. The window is open and there is always speculation with players, not just regarding myself but with everyone else in the squad as well. I haven’t got much more to say than that.”

It follows the news that Bayern Munich have pulled out of a bid to sign Kieran Trippier, after feeling that Newcastle’s price was too high.

Man City beat Barcelona to sign Argentine wonderkid Claudio Echeverri

Thursday 25 January 2024 12:51 , Lawrence Ostlere

First up is the news that Manchester City have completed the signing of the Argentinian teenager Claudio Echeverri from River Plate for £12.5m plus add-ons.

Echeverri, an attacking midfielder who idolises Lionel Messi, will spend the rest of 2024 in his home country after being loaned straight back to River Plate.

The 18-year-old, who attracted interest from Barcelona last year, has signed a four-and-a-half year contract at the Etihad Stadium, is set to link up with City in January 2025.

Man City beat Barcelona to sign Argentine wonderkid

Transfer news

Thursday 25 January 2024 12:50 , Lawrence Ostlere

Follow all the latest transfer news, rumours and done deals right here as the January window nears its conclusion.

City sign 18-year-old wonderkid Claudio Echeverri

Thursday 25 January 2024 16:58 , Lawrence Ostlere

Manchester City have signed 18-year-old Argentine midfielder Claudio Echeverri from River Plate on a contract until June 2028, the Premier League side said on Thursday.

Echeverri will remain at the Buenos Aires club, where he has so far made six appearances since his debut last June, until January next year.

The player captained Argentina at last year’s under-17 World Cup in Indonesia, scoring a hat-trick in a 3-0 defeat of Brazil in the quarter-finals before his side lost on penalties to eventual winners Germany in the semi-finals.

Echeverri follows Argentina forward and 2022 World Cup winner Julian Alvarez in joining Premier League champions City from River, who are managed by former City defender Martin Demichelis.

No financial details were given although British media reports indicated the deal was for 12.5 million pounds ($15.9 million) with add-ons.

Chelsea not intested in new players, insists Pochettino

Thursday 25 January 2024 16:56 , Lawrence Ostlere

Chelsea are more interested in winning trophies than in signing new players, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Thursday.

Chelsea suffered a dismal start to the season but things have started to look up for Pochettino’s side who have won their last three league games and reached the League Cup final by thrashing second-tier Middlesbrough in midweek.

The current transfer window closes next week, and despite the fact that Chelsea are currently ninth in the Premier League table, they are not desperately seeking new players.

“We are desperate to win a title, not to sign players, I’m happy with the squad,” Pochettino told a press conference ahead of their FA Cup fourth-round tie with Aston Villa.

“But we know the last week has the most action and we need to be ready for anything that can happen in the squad.”

Pochettino confirmed that forward Christopher Nkunku will not be available for Friday’s game with Villa, as he recovers from a hip injury, but the manager refused to comment on whether they were looking to sign a striker.

“Too many rumours, player in, player out, at the moment, nothing to say,” the manager said.

“We work really hard about different things in different areas. We will communicate if something happens.”