As the January transfer window draws to a close, the major Premier League clubs-Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United-are all stepping up their efforts to land key signings ahead of the deadline. With competition heightened across Europe, here's the breakdown of the latest transfer news, including the biggest rumors, potential transfers, and player negotiations.
Arsenal and RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko: 'Gentlemen's Agreement' Reached
Arsenal continue to chase a striker, and it is now being reported that there has been a gentlemen's agreement with RB Leipzig for the signing of forward Benjamin Sesko. While the forward can leave the club in 2025 because of a release clause, Arsenal have some stiff competition from other clubs to sign the Slovenian international. According to sources, however, the move this month is unlikely, and the Gunners may have to wait until summer to get the deal done.
Chelsea in Shock Pursuit of Juventus Striker Dusan Vlahovic Chelsea are said to be set to strengthen their attack further by making a transfer offer for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic. The 24-year-old striker is reportedly the club's first-choice signing following initial consultation over a summer transfer between Chelsea and Serie A champions Juventus. Vlahovic, Juventus' top scorer with 12 goals this season and nearing the final year of his contract with Juve, may prove to be an important target for Chelsea, who may be looking to get him in place to compete with their London rivals Arsenal.
Manchester United Targetting Patrick Dorgu from Lecce
Manchester United is set to sign Lecce full-back Patrick Dorgu as the first signing of the Ruben Amorim era. The 20-year-old international from Denmark impressed from when he broke into Lecce's starting XI during last season. United needs depth at left-back, and Dorgu's move will adhere to the kind of players that Amorim favors. United is holding negotiations to get the promising talent during the priority of this month.
Real Betis approach for Antony; loan transfer scuppered by wage disagreement
Manchester United is experiencing setbacks as they try to loan Antony out to Real Betis. The Spanish side wants the Brazilian winger on a temporary deal, but both parties have hit a snag while negotiating who will pay the player's wages. Antony reportedly earns £200,000 every week and has been indispensable since joining United from Ajax in 2022. Still, Betis and United will have to come to an understanding over the financial details if a deal is to be agreed upon.
Manchester City Weighs Up Move for Douglas Luiz as Rodri Replacement In a surprising twist, Manchester City have reportedly targeted Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa. The Brazilian midfielder is being eyed as a potential replacement for the injured Rodri. With City still unwilling to commit to a permanent transfer, the club is exploring the possibility of a loan deal to provide cover until Rodri returns later this year. This makes Luiz a more realistic option for Manchester City, which has ruled out other targets such as Martin Zubimendi and Bruno Guimarães.
Transfer Window Buzz: Other Key Updates
- Benjamin Sesko to Arsenal: The Slovenian forward reportedly wants to join Arsenal, with some sources suggesting he has already agreed to a £60m deal, contingent upon a summer 2025 transfer.
- Chelsea Hails Vlahovic: At least for now, the Blues do appear to build their interest within the Juventus player due to his present contract status.
- A Strike for Gunners: However, Arsenal too, are going in all guns with regards to its quest for searching for a right-proven Striker to increase the options ahead. Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting also on target.
- United's Defensive Strengthening: Manchester United still continues to scout targets for the defense with more depth, especially at the left-back position to complement the team.
What to Expect in the Last Days of the Transfer Window
As the January transfer window draws to a close, clubs are scurrying around trying to wrap up deals and strengthen their teams for the second half of the season. Arsenal's search for a striker, Chelsea's pursuit of Vlahovic, and United's move for Dorgu headline some of the big stories to watch as the deadline approaches.
Watch this space for further updates on the latest transfers, rumors, and done deals as the window enters its final days.
