WHUFC can sign Dybala 2.0 in Roland Sallai

West Ham United’s form in the Premier League has plummeted like a rock down a mountain this season, a stark difference to the excellent form of the past two seasons that clinched European qualification on both occasions. 

What’s the word?

With Irons boss David Moyes looking to rectify the woes that have recently plagued his team, SC Freiburg’s dynamic forward Roland Sallai has been distinguished as an avenue to bolster the efforts over the latter course of the campaign. 

This is according to Hungarian journalist Bence Bocsak, who recently took to Twitter to confirm the growing attention on the player, and the prospects of a transfer.

He tweeted:

“Many clubs are interested in Roland Sallai (25) in January. He switched agencies recently and is open to a move.

“Lazio, Wolverhampton, West Ham, Sevilla and Fiorentina are all possible destinations. He has 4 G/As in his last 4 caps. Freiburg want €20m.”

With stiff competition for his services, Moyes would be prudent to act with conviction and swiftly, signing the player for roughly £17.6m after convincing him that his future is best suited with the ambitious east London outfit.

Dybala 2.0

Sallai has scored just one goal this season, although he has only made five starts due to an injury that severely hampered his progress, ruling him out for 13 competitive matches.

His international record, however, is exemplary; scoring nine goals and serving five assists from 38 appearances for Hungary, Sallai has cemented his integral offensive role for his nation, notably starring in the momentous 4-0 demolition of England at Wembley earlier this year.

In that match, as per Sofascore, the 25-year-old played his part to devastating effect, scoring an emphatic brace and proving to be a consistent threat with his 30 touches and 78% pass success rate.

His defensive statistics also caught the eye, with his three tackles, two interceptions and one clearance playing a vital part in rebuffing the advances of England on a chastening night on home soil. 

Such dogged attributes would be a welcome bonus to the Hammers, who could certainly utilise a player boasting offensive and defensive calibre in the fight to return to prominence in the division.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.


By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

The Daily Mail once stated that reports had left the Hungarian ace likened to A.S.a Roma’s Paulo Dybala, who has been a perennial star within the Serie A ranks for years, winning a wealth of major honours with Juventus before his summer switch this year, and scoring 103 goals and 53 assists in the league from 280 appearances since his debut with Palermo.

There will undoubtedly be reservations over a player that has yet to open his account in the German Bundesliga this term, but there is a layer of natural talent to Sallai’s game that could prove to be a valuable option at Moyes’ disposal.

A player who has not quite found his feet this term, West Ham must not be deterred, as evidenced by Bocsak’s tweet, there is plenty of intrigue from ambitious outfits for his signature; Sallai would bring a versatile approach and a robust presence to the heart of the team, flourishing across a number of roles and always on the search to instigate forward plays.

Emi Buendia was Aston Villa’s shining light

Aston Villa managed to continue their unbeaten run last night on the road at Nottingham Forest but will feel somewhat aggrieved that they could not find a winner against a side wallowing in 19th.

Depending on how you view their results, it actually marks just one win in their last seven now, and Steven Gerrard will certainly be feeling the pressure.

In what was a feisty affair, few stood out in a game that never really seemed to find its rhythm.

Despite dominating 61% of the ball, the Villans managed just two shots on target. One of which was Ashley Young’s scorching equaliser. The full-back impressed and would have been the standout player for the visitors if not for Emiliano Buendia.

The Argentine was one of few who continued to pry at the Forest defence, and his workmanlike yet classy performance was clearly noticed by SofaScore, who gave him a 7.5 rating for the game. This was only beaten by the extra 0.1 handed to the goal scorer.

Compared to his team’s average of 6.83, it further outlines him as one of the star players of the game.

Having been handed his first start since August, his desperation to have the ball was outlined in his 66 touches. However, he was not wasteful with it.

He was 100% accurate with his long balls and even gave two key passes, showing how creative he was throughout.

However, it was his defensive display which will have impressed his manager even more.

To combine such talent with an attitude like Buendia’s suggests that he has all the tools to become a really outstanding talent in the Premier League.

He was involved in a mammoth 13 ground duels, of which he managed to win nine. For a winger, the 25-year-old did not shirk his defensive duties to help out Matty Cash, who was returning from injury.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.


By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

His five tackles further compound his all-around display, which could only have been capped off had he scored or assisted the winner.

Pundit Jack Collins noted back in January of this year about the “stunning performances” he had been putting in. It seems that if he is given a run now, with displays such as this, he certainly could recapture that form.

Although his side were not at their best, Gerrard can at least look to Buendia as the shining light for his side on another disappointing night.

Crystal Palace in touch with "unsettled" England international as January deal possible

Crystal Palace are facing a pivotal season as the Eagles look to build upon what has been an absolutely excellent 2025 — a year which has seen them go on an unprecedented unbeaten streak whilst ending their history-long wait for a major trophy.

Crystal Palace face an uncertain future after stellar 2025

Oliver Glasner masterminded an historic win over Man City in the FA Cup final in May, delivering the club’s first ever piece of silverware, with the Eagles also tasting defeat for the first time in 20 games against Everton last weekend.

Palace’s club record 19-game unbeaten run in all competitions is testament to the phenomenal job done by Glasner with very limited resources, all whilst coping with the departures of key stars like Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze since his arrival.

Crystal Palace’s 19-game unbeaten run in full

Palace 0-0 Bournemouth (Premier League)

Arsenal 2-2 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 3-0 Aston Villa (FA Cup)

Palace 1-1 Nottingham Forest (Premier League)

Tottenham 0-2 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 1-0 Man City (FA Cup)

Palace 4-2 Wolves (Premier League)

Liverpool 1-1 Palace (Premier League)

Crystal Palace (3) 2-2 (2) Liverpool (Community Shield)

Chelsea 0-0 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 1-0 Fredrikstad (Conference League)

Palace 1-1 Nottingham Forest (Premier League)

Fredrikstad 0-0 Palace (Conference League)

Aston Villa 0-3 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 0-0 Sunderland (Premier League)

Palace (4) 1-1 (2) Millwall (Carabao Cup)

West Ham 1-2 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 2-1 Liverpool (Premier League)

Dynamo Kyiv 0-2 Palace (Conference League)

However, while the Eagles are currently riding high, and still sit unexpectedly near the Premier League top four, this era is seriously threatened by Glasner’s uncertain future and a potentially imminent exit for star defender Marc Guehi.

Glasner is out of contract at the end of 25/26, and is attracting attention from top-flight rivals like Nottingham Forest amid his excellent work at Selhurst Park.

Guehi, meanwhile, was on the verge of joining Liverpool last summer only for Palace to pull out of the deal in dramatic fashion. The England star, who’s established himself as a Three Lions mainstay and proven Premier League defender since joining the South Londoners in 2021, will have his pick of new clubs once his deal also runs out in 2026.

It is absolutely imperative that Steve Parish shows a statement of intent to back Glasner if he hopes for the Austrian’s extended stay, and January could be vital in this respect.

Crystal Palace in contact with Conor Gallagher and could strike January deal

£150,000-per-week Atlético Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher, who dazzled at Palace on loan from Chelsea in 2021/2022, is apparently a potential winter target.

The England international has been in and out of the Atlético starting eleven under Diego Simeone this season, and journalist Graeme Bailey reports that Palace are in contact with Gallagher’s representatives ahead of a possible January swoop.

The 25-year-old was one of Palace’s star performers of the 21/22 season, bagging eight goals and three assists over 33 Premier League starts, and his contribution stretched far beyond the numbers going forward.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.


By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Gallagher’s loan spell at Palace was widely regarded as a breakthrough period in his career, showcasing his immense talent and versatility in midfield.

Arriving from Chelsea, Gallagher quickly became a key figure, impressing with his energy, work rate, and technical ability. His box-to-box style of play combined relentless pressing with intelligence, making him a versatile asset both defensively and offensively.

The ex-Chelsea man’s performances earned praise from teammates, managers, and pundits alike, with many highlighting maturity beyond his years. Gallagher’s impact was so pronounced that Palace even sought to extend his stay, but while those attempts fell through, he could still make a sensational return.

Tottenham hold direct talks to appoint "outstanding" 4-3-3 Ange replacement

Tottenham Hotspur have now held direct talks to appoint an “outstanding” manager, with Ange Postecoglou heading for the exit door, according to a report.

Ange could be set to leave despite Europa League triumph

One year ago, INEOS arguably made the mistake of keeping Erik ten Hag in the Manchester United job after the Dutchman led them to victory in the FA Cup, and it appears as though Daniel Levy doesn’t want to make the same error this summer.

Indeed, widespread reports are now suggesting that Levy is set to sack Postecoglou, despite the historic Europa League triumph against Manchester United last month, which puts captain Son Heung-min among some esteemed company.

It may be a divisive decision to sack the manager responsible for leading Spurs to their first trophy in 17 years, but appointing a top-quality replacement could go some way to getting the fans back on side, and contact has now been made with a coach who could be in that category.

According to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna on X, Tottenham have now made “direct contact” with Brentford manager Thomas Frank, who spoke about his project and potential targets for the summer transfer window.

Top target: Tottenham set to hold talks for "unbelievable" £68m forward

Spurs are planning to enter negotiations with the agents of a forward, who is one of their key summer targets.

ByDominic Lund

Several candidates are said to be under consideration as potential replacements for Ange, but Frank is believed to be “high” on the list, and Spurs have now made their first move to appoint the Danish manager.

In another report from France, it is detailed that Ange’s future remains very much up in the air, with talks to discuss his position as manager due to take place at some point in the next week.

Frank could be "outstanding" Ange replacement

Deciding whether to sack the 59-year-old will no doubt be a difficult decision for Levy, given that Tottenham’s torrid Premier League form cannot be ignored, finishing 17th as a result of collecting just 38 points across the entire 2024-25 campaign.

However, the former Celtic boss has suggested his side’s first experience of success will make them more eager to make sure they’re in the same position again, saying: “I also wanted us to think about what’s next, you know — don’t settle for this. We’ve got a taste of it now. My players have got a taste for it. The club’s got a taste for it. Well, let’s make sure we’re back here again.”

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.


By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Should Levy decide to sack Ange, there are signs Frank could be a fantastic replacement, having been lauded as an “outstanding” manager by Troy Deeney, while leading Brentford to a very respectable 10th-placed finish last season.

Brentford managerThomasFrankbefore the matc

Having transformed the Bees from a Championship club into a solid Premier League side, the 51-year-old, who utilises a 4-3-3 formation, has earned the opportunity to prove himself at the top level, showing a knack for turning attacking talents into some of the biggest stars in their division.

Said Benrahma, Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins and Neal Maupay all thrived under his guidance, with only Watkins able to replicate that form elsewhere, while current forwards Yoane Wissa (19) and Bryan Mbeumo (20) combined for nearly 40 top flight goals this season.

Raphinha repeat: Leeds lining up move for a star who was once worth £59m

Leeds United have the chance to move four points clear at the top of the Championship table this evening as they prepare to take on Burnley at Turf Moor.

Sheffield United lost 3-0 to Hull City on Friday and Sunderland were held to a 2-2 draw by Plymouth Argyle on Saturday, which has opened the door for the Whites to extend their lead with a win over the Clarets, who can move level on points with the Whites if they secure the victory.

Daniel Farke will be hoping that his side are as effective and solid as they were in their last outing in the second tier, beating Norwich City 2-0 at Elland Road on Wednesday night.

It is a huge clash at the top of the Championship table and one that could set Leeds well on their way to securing automatic promotion up to the Premier League.

A loss, however, could create panic, given that Burnley would move level on points with them, and there could be calls for action in the January transfer window ahead of next week’s deadline, given that the Clarets, Sunderland, and Sheffield United have all been busy.

Irrespective of what happens tonight, the West Yorkshire outfit are reportedly looking at adding a midfielder to their playing squad before the deadline.

Leeds eyeing Brazilian midfielder

According to the printed edition of The Sunday Mirror (26/01/2025), as relayed by The Star, Leeds are one of a number of teams lining up a swoop to sign Botofogo midfielder Danilo Barbosa.

The report claims that fellow Championship promotion hopefuls Sheffield United and Premier League side Everton are also in the running to sign the 28-year-old star before the end of the January transfer window.

It states that Botofogo are looking to cash in on the Brazilian ace in the coming days to avoid losing him for nothing at the end of the year, as his contract is due to expire at the end of December, which means that he would be free to sign a pre-contract in the upcoming summer window.

The Sunday Mirror adds that the Serie A team would be willing to cash in on the former Nice titan for a fee of £2m, which could make him a bargain addition for Leeds, the Blades, or the Toffees ahead of the second half of the season.

However, it remains to be seen whether or not any of the three interested clubs are prepared to move in with a firm offer for his services before the end of the current window, or if they will wait to sign him for nothing at the start of next year.

Transfer Focus

Leeds could, though, enjoy a Raphinha repeat with Barbosa, by signing another Brazilian who has excelled in Ligue 1 in the past, as they did with the left-footed magician.

Leeds United's Raphinha masterclass

In the summer of 2020, Victor Orta swooped to sign the winger from French side Rennes for a reported fee of £17m to bolster Marcelo Bielsa’s squad.

Raphinha started his career in Brazil, with Avai FC, before a spell in Portugal with Vitoria Guimaraes and Sporting, which led to his move to Rennes in Ligue 1.

Former Leeds forward Raphinha.

During his time in France, the forward racked up eight goals and seven assists in 36 appearances in all competitions, and that convinced the Whites to swoop in to secure his services.

Raphinha was, then, able to translate his form in Ligue 1 over to the Premier League with Leeds, as he scored 17 goals and provided 12 assists in 67 outings across his two seasons in West Yorkshire.

As you can see in the clips above, the Brazil international was capable of the sublime in the Premier League and won many points for the Whites with his fantastic qualities at the top end of the pitch.

Barcelona then swooped in to sign him for a reported fee of £55m in the summer of 2022, which meant that Leeds made a gigantic profit on the winger after just two years of service at Elland Road – making the initial £17m deal a masterclass from Orta.

Why Danilo Barbosa could be a Raphinha repeat

The 49ers could come close to repeating the masterclass that the club played with Raphinha by signing Danilo Barbosa for £2m from Botofogo this month, because he is another Brazilian who could come in having already impressed in Ligue 1.

Unlike the current Barcelona superstar, the 28-year-old brute would come in as an experienced player without much potential for a sell-on and plays in defensive positions, as a midfielder or as a centre-back, rather than on the wing.

However, his form for Botafogo in 2024 and his previous form in Ligue 1 for Nice, where Raphinha also shined, suggests that he could come in to make an immediate impact – as the forward did.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.


By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Barbosa made 25 appearances in the Serie A in 2024 and caught the eye with 2.2 tackles and interceptions per game, without making a single error that led to a shot or goal for the opposition, to go along with a duel success rate of 55%, which shows that is a reliable holding midfielder who is strong in physical battles.

The Brazilian ace, who reportedly had a release clause of €70m (£59m) at Nice after his move from Portuguese side Braga, impressed as a centre-back in the 2019/20 campaign in France.

2019/20 Ligue 1

Danilo Barbosa per 90

Percentile rank vs CBs

Shot-creating actions

1.60

Top 2%

Pass accuracy

91.4%

Top 7%

Progressive passes

5.29

Top 10%

Progressive carries

1.68

Top 6%

Blocks

1.68

Top 2%

Stats via FBref

As you can see in the table above, Barbosa excelled against his positional peers in the French top-flight that term, particularly at playing out from the back, which would be crucial in a Farke team that dominates the ball.

These statistics suggest that he has the potential to be a good fit for the German’s style of play as a centre-back option, whilst his current form for Botofogo in midfield shows that he still has the defensive quality to operate effectively in the middle of the park as well.

Therefore, Barbosa, who made three interceptions and one block against Raphinha in a 1-1 draw between Nice and Rennes in 2020, could be the second Brazilian to arrive at Elland Road via Ligue 1 to become a successful signing for the Whites.

Leeds can forget Buendia with late swoop for "incredible" 15-goal star

Leeds could miss out on a deal to sign Emiliano Buendia from Aston Villa.

ByDan Emery

He was once valued at £59m, given his release clause at Nice, which is even more than Barcelona paid for Raphinha, but Leeds now have the chance to land the 28-year-old for just £2m, which could end up being a bargain for the club this month.

FSG now ready to pay £80m+ to bring "incredible" ‘new Messi’ to Liverpool

Liverpool’s interest in completing the signing of an “incredible” player who’s been likened to Lionel Messi has now gone up a notch, according to a fresh transfer claim.

Liverpool transfer news

The Reds are still being linked with possible new signings despite the window closing several weeks ago, as Arne Slot looks to bolster what is already a squad brimming with elite-level quality.

Fulham left-back Antonee Robinson has been targeted by Liverpool in the past and has again emerged as an option, as they look to pip rivals Manchester United to his signature in 2025. Andy Robertson is now 30 years of age and arguably not quite the world-class force he was a few years ago, so it is important that a long-term replacement is lined up.

Fulham defenderAntonee Robinson.

Another left-back in the form of Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez is also thought to be being eyed up by the Reds, with the Hungarian playing alongside Dominik Szoboszlai at international level. United are once again keen, so there could be a battle to snap him up. Meanwhile, another former target, Nicolo Barella, is also being linked with a switch to Anfield in one of the upcoming transfer windows, with the Italian reportedly seen as the ideal profile of midfielder for Slot to bring in.

Liverpool ready to splash the cash on "incredible" Wirtz

According to a new report from Caught Offside, Liverpool are still looking to sign Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, having shown interest in him in the past. The Reds’ willingness to snap up the 21-year-old is believed to be “strengthening”, with the Germany international “understood to be open to a move to the Premier League” and the Reds now “xpected to be willing to pay the €100m required”, which is roughly £83.5m.

Wirtz could be a phenomenal addition for Liverpool, having shone so much for Leverkusen in their title-winning Bundesliga season last time around. The German scored and assisted 15 times apiece in the league and Europa League, not only winning the former but also reaching the final of the latter.

Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso has even compared aspects of his game to Messi, in terms of his choice of pass, and Joe Cole said of him back in May: “Incredible. I’ve watched him three times this year now and he’s blown me away every time. He’s got a South American flair with a German efficiency about him. We’ve all heard of Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer and Phil Foden, and Musiala. This lad will be new to the British viewers. Let me tell you, he is every bit as talented as those players. He could go on to be anything.”

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.


By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Still only 21, the sky feels like the limit for Wirtz, and he could add an extra dimension to Liverpool’s attack, battling Szoboszlai for minutes in a central attacking midfield role, as well as being able to shine out on the left wing, if required.

Liverpool flop who left for £5m is now outperforming Jota & emulating Messi

Liverpool never got the best out of this dud.

ByKelan Sarson

Leverkusen will clearly be desperate to keep hold of their star man, so it won’t be easy for the Reds to get him, while Real Madrid and Bayern Munich also represent great options for him, but he should be considered a primary addition.

Arsenal must axe "phenomenal" fan favourite who earns more than Trossard

The last few years have been transformational for Arsenal football club.

Mikel Arteta has taken a team that looked utterly hopeless and destined for years of underachieving and has guided them into back-to-back Premier League title races.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

The road to this point has been paved with new signings and littered with discarded old ones, and while the squad is significantly better today than even two years ago, a few players need to be let go, one of whom is earning more than Leandro Trossard.

Aaron Ramsdale's Arsenal career

The player in question is goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who signed for the Gunners from Sheffield United in 2021 for around £30m.

At the time, this raised a lot of eyebrows as the Englishman had just been relegated with the Blades and Bernd Leno was seen as a reliable pair of hands at the Emirates.

However, it didn't take long for others to see what Arteta and Edu Gaspar saw in the Chesterton-born ace as not long into his first season with the North Londoners, the "phenomenal" shotstopper, as described by former Arsenal keeper David Seaman, was putting in brilliant performances, with his display away to Leicester City a clear highlight in his early career.

By the end of the 2021/22 campaign, it was blindingly obvious that the 25-year-old was good enough to be Arsenal's number one keeper going forward. Throughout most of last season, he continued to show that, with his performance at Anfield being another standout moment for him, notably making a number of jaw-dropping saves late on.

However, the key word there is 'most' as there were a few worrying signs from the 6 foot 2 titan as well, such as at home against Southampton, when he was entirely to blame for the Saints' opening goal and, therefore, ultimately cost the team two points in a period in which the team was slipping further from the title.

With doubts about Ramsdale's ability to cope with a title challenge starting to creep in, Arteta made the surprise decision to bring in David Raya from Brentford last summer.

While the Spaniard told the media that he did not consider either keeper to be number one, it was very quickly apparent that his compatriot would be starting for most of the season, and so far, Ramsdale has only made 11 appearances, while Raya has made 40.

Overall, the Englishman's time as the number one keeper is clearly up, and given his significant wages, he simply has to be moved on in the summer.

Aaron Ramsdale's wages at Arsenal

According to Capology, Ramsdale earns around £120k-per-week at the Emirates, making him the highest-paid backup goalkeeper out of the traditional 'big six'.

Big six backup keepers' wages

Position

Player

Wage

Club

1

Aaron Ramsdale

£120k-per-week

Arsenal

2

Fraser Forster

£75K-per-week

Tottenham Hotspur

3

Robert Sanchez

£60k-per-week

Chelsea

4

Stefan Ortega

£55k-per-week

Manchester City

5

Altay Bayındır

£35k-per-week

Manchester United

6

Caoimhín Kelleher

£10k-per-week

Liverpool

All Wages via Capology

Although, closer to home, he is also earning £30k-per-week more than Leandro Trossard, who currently makes £90k-per-week.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.


By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Now, while the Belgian can't really complain about the amount he is making, it does seem odd that he is earning so much less than the man who has effectively become the club's backup keeper, especially when he has been so effective for the club since joining from Brighton & Hove Albion last year.

Trossard's Arsenal career

Season

2022/23

2023/24

Appearances

22

45

Goals

1

17

Assists

10

2

Goal Involvements per Match

0.5

0.42

All Stats via Transfermarkt

In all, the former Seagulls ace has scored 18 goals and provided 12 assists in 67 games for the North Londoners so far in his career and in the last couple of months he has become a crucial player in Arteta's preferred starting lineup.

Ultimately, while Ramsdale deserves a lot of praise for the two seasons he regularly started at Arsenal, the fact that he has clearly fallen down the pecking order while maintaining his lofty wages is the reason he should be moved on in the summer, even if he is still a well-loved player.

Arsenal enquire about signing £75m star who's "very similar to Saka"

The incredible talent could be a transformational addition to Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes

Man Utd ready to pay release clause to sign Bundesliga star in January

Manchester United are keen to strengthen this month and are now reportedly willing to pay the release clause of one of their well-documented targets.

Manchester United January transfers

Given his side's inability to consistently carve out results this campaign, Erik ten Hag will be keen to utilise the January window as a launchpad to reboot Manchester United's campaign as the Dutchman endeavours to elevate their standing in the Premier League.

Speculation has already ran wild over who the Red Devils could look to recruit this window, especially in the forward areas, as identifying and acquiring support for Rasmus Hojlund and Anthony Martial in attack creeps up the priority list at Old Trafford.

All confirmed Premier League done deals: January transfer window 2024

With the January transfer window coming towards its conclusion, FFC has all the info for tracking your club’s winter transfer activity.

ByLuke Randall

Speaking in his Daily Briefing via CaughtOffside, transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Manchester United are keeping informed on Bayern Munich striker Eric Choupo-Moting as they look to add variety in the final third.

Romano stated: "Bayern Munich striker Eric Choupo-Moting is one of many names being discussed internally. It’s nothing concrete, nothing advanced yet. Still, Bayern have Harry Kane and Mathys Tel as options up front, so obviously there’s not so much space for Choupo-Moting and Man United have been informed of his situation. At the moment it’s not a negotiation, from what I’m told, but it may become one to watch."

The Cameroon international is believed to be part of a four-man shortlist of strikers who the Red Devils could try to entice to the North West, with Timo Werner, Thomas Muller and Serhou Guirassy also in their thinking.

United willing to pay Guirassy release clause

According to reports in Spain, via The Faithful MUFC, Manchester United are ready to pay a fee of £15.1 million to sign Stuttgart striker Guirassy this month, which is in line with his release clause at the Bundesliga outfit.

Serhou Guirassy in-game statistics – Bundesliga (Sofascore)

Goals per game

1.2

Shots per game

3.4

Shots on target per game

1.8

Expected goals

11.56

Big chances missed

10

Average match rating

7.86/10

The outlet claim that the Guinea international has been on the radar at Old Trafford for quite some time and is now viewed as an option the Red Devils could look to invest in; however, he will not be available during January as he is on international duty at the African Cup of Nations.

Stuttgart strikerSerhou Guirassy.

Previously dubbed "incredible" by Dean Jones on the Ranks FC podcast, the 27-year-old has already notched 19 goals and two assists in 16 appearances this campaign across all competitions (Guirassy statistics – Transfermarkt).

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.


By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Looking ahead, Guirassy could provide a spark in attack at Manchester United if he were to move to England this month, though we will need to wait and see on that front.

Fulham: Whites Made "Serious" Last-Gasp Hojbjerg Bid

Journalist Paul Brown has shared some detail behind a "serious" last-gasp deadline day Fulham bid to sign Tottenham star Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

Fulham deadline day signings

Despite the links to a plethora of stars very late in the window, Fulham did little business yesterday but did manage to seal a dramatic late loan move for AC Milan defender Fode Ballo-Toure.

The Senegal international, who plays as a left-back, joins Adama Traore, Raul Jimenez, Calvin Bassey, Steven Benda, Alex Iwobi and former Leicester City defender Timothy Castagne as Marco Silva's main summer signings.

Fulham were also boosted by star midfielder Joao Palhinha remaining at the club, as his proposed move to Bayern Munich collapsed in the eleventh hour.

The Portugal international had even travelled for a medical with Bayern, but the Whites ultimately didn't give the green light to the move, possibly because they couldn't source a late replacement.

Hojbjerg, who was a mainstay for Spurs under Antonio Conte last season, has found game time difficult to come by in Ange Postecoglou's new-look Tottenham system.

Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha.

The Dane, as a result, was being chased by Fulham during the latter stages of the summer window – with journalist Brown sharing what he's heard on the matter to GiveMeSport.

Indeed, it is believed Fulham were the "last club" to make a "serious" last-ditch offer to sign Hojbjerg, but the move didn't come to fruition.

The former Southampton star is now left in "limbo" as a result of this, as explained by Brown to GMS:

“Hojbjerg is also one who isn't going to be allowed to leave. I think Fulham were the last club to make a serious offer, but they no longer need to decide what to do about how they replace Joao Palhinha, and I'm not sure he was their first choice there.

“So, he's currently in limbo. It is interesting that Ange Postecoglou also said today that he's not going to be freezing anyone out. If any of the fringe players they're trying to sell end up staying beyond the deadline, they will be reintegrated.

“He's not quite as strict on squad numbers as other managers and he is willing to work with a slightly bigger squad, while he says that right now it's not a problem in terms of numbers in training or anything like that.

How good is Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg?

Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

While Palhinha staying reduces the need for Hojbjerg, in a hypothetical universe, he may well have been a capable deputy for the ex-Sporting CP ace.

The Denmark international ranked as one of Spurs' best-performing players per 90 last term, according to WhoScored, with Hojbjerg also registering the highest pass accuracy (88.6%) of any Tottenham player with over 10 starts.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.


By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

He chipped in with nine goal contributions in the league, four goals and five assists specifically, and former Spurs keeper Paul Robinson praised Hojbjerg for his performances at the back end of last year.

"I’ve been surprised by how much he has stepped up this year," said Robinson to Football Insider.

“I thought he was the one who would make way for Yves Bissouma. The club spent a lot of money on Bissouma. I think Hojbjerg recognised that and stepped up.

“He is playing to a level that we have never seen before. He is playing his best football in a Spurs shirt."

£200k p/w Spurs Star In Communication With Levy Over Future

Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane is open to a potential move away from north London this summer but he and his camp are not agitating for a move.

Who wants to sign Harry Kane?

The 29-year-old striker is now coming into the final year of his deal with his boyhood club and speculation as to whether he will see that final season out remains rife.

Indeed, the England captain has finished his campaign for the Lilywhites having shone in what was a seriously underwhelming term for the club.

Kane was able to net a whopping 30 goals in the Premier League which was just six off the league's top scorer Erling Haaland who was playing Pep Guardiola's extraordinary Manchester City side.

And having impressed once again in a Spurs shirt, Kane is believed to have attracted the interest from Manchester United and Real Madrid.

This comes two years after the England captain was believed to be pushing for a move away from north London amid the interest from City.

However, speaking on the Five YouTube channel, David Ornstein has claimed this is not the case this summer with the striker's camp very much in contact with the chairman Daniel Levy:

"As far as I know, he is open to all opportunities, including Real Madrid, I'm not aware that he would not play outside the Premier League like some have suggested."

"Harry Kane, his family, they love Spurs, they're Tottenham supporters, it would do them no greater pleasure than to succeed, win trophies, compete in the Champions League with Tottenham, that is their ideal scenario.

"But we're not living in an ideal world. And that's why they are open to everything. I don't sense they're agitating, like some perceive them to be in the summer of 2021. I think there is communication on this occasion with Daniel Levy, which there wasn't at that time. And so I think things are very calm."

Will Kane sign a new deal?

There are contrasting reports over the interest coming from Madrid now with some claims from Spain suggesting Los Blancos could be willing to wait until next summer to make their move for Kylian Mbappe.

If this is the case then it could possibly halve Kane's options this summer to just United as Erik ten Hag looks to solve their issues up top.

Tottenham Hotspur chairmanDanielLevy

However, it is believed Levy would be willing to allow Kane to run his contract down next season rather than allowing him to leave this summer for the Red Devils.

Given United are said to be so desperate to address their issues at striker this summer, missing out on Kane could potentially see them find an alternative long-term option.

FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.


By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

If this were to be the case, then it could put some serious question marks as to where Kane could actually move.

And there is certainly potential for this to work in Tottenham's favour if Kane's options are to fade away as it could leave the £200k-per-week striker open to signing a new deal in north London.

As Ornstein suggests, it appears the striker would be open to staying at Spurs this summer and there is no burning desire to force a move, currently.

So if his options are to fade over the coming months, it could possibly leave Spurs his most attractive offer.

Game
Register
Service
Bonus