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Celtic are not pursuing a deal for Luzern midfielder Ardon Jashari in the January transfer window, according to Pete O’Rourke.

What’s the word?

Celtic have been linked with a move for Jashari, who was in Switzerland’s World Cup squad as they reached the knockout rounds in Qatar.

The defensive midfielder has made 17 appearances for Luzern this season, providing four assists, and the 20-year-old is now a coveted player with Eintracht Frankfurt also reportedly interested.

However, speaking exclusively to Football Fancast, O’Rourke has claimed that he is not a priority for Celtic in this window, but he could remain in their sights in the summer.

“I don’t think it’s a top priority for Ange Postecoglu’s side this month in the transfer window, having already brought in Tomoki Iwata, the Japanese midfielder, so I don’t think midfield is the key area of concern for Celtic right now,” he stated.

“But again, it could be a player that might turn to the radar in the summer if he’s still at Luzern l because there is interest from other clubs, I think across European clubs for his services.

A long-term signing

Celtic are already well stocked in midfield, but with Aaron Mooy and James McCarthy ageing, there is a case to bring in younger midfielders, and Jashari, who has been described as an “exciting” talent, could be a good move for the future.

He has already captained his side a lot this season, and would arrive as an internationally experienced midfielder despite his age.

Even if Celtic wait until the summer before doing a deal, he would not have to come in and make an immediate impact, but he can continue his development in Glasgow before eventually earning himself a place in the starting XI.

Wolverhampton Wanderers narrowly missed out on signing Craig Dawson during the summer but it seems as if the Old Gold could return for the West Ham United man in next month’s transfer window.

It was reported on deadline day in September that Wolves had agreed a deal to sign the experienced centre-back but it fell through at the last minute when Jan Bednarek joined Aston Villa rather than West Ham, leaving David Moyes short of cover in defence at the London Stadium.

With Bruno Lage having already lost the likes of Conor Coady, Romain Saiss and Willy Boly over the summer, a lack of centre-back options was perhaps always likely to cost the Midlands club, so it is no surprise that Julen Lopetegui is keen to strengthen in that position in the new year.

According to The Athletic’s Wolves correspondent Steve Madeley, a deal could still be done for the 32-year-old in next month’s window, despite him featuring on a regular basis for the Hammers so far this campaign.

Considering the east London outfit are undoubtedly in a relegation fight this season, as they find themselves just one point ahead of Wolves after a loss against Arsenal on Boxing Day, it would be something of a surprise if Moyes was willing to strengthen a rival by allowing Dawson to join Wolves.

However, there is little doubt that the former Rochdale man would offer experience and quality at the back for Wolves, as the current centre-back duo of Nathan Collins and Max Kilman arguably lacks the necessary know-how for a relegation battle.

Dawson has featured 84 times for the Hammers, contributing nine goals and two assists, so could also add a huge threat from set-pieces should he make the move to Molineux.

Last season saw the Englishman named alongside Declan Rice in the Europa League team of the tournament, which emphasises the quality he would add to Lopetegui’s squad for the rest of the season.

Although the Spaniard earned a win in his first game as manager against Everton on Boxing Day, the goal conceded came from shocking set-piece defending, and Dawon’s aerial prowess could help improve the Old Gold drastically from both attacking and defending corners and free-kicks.

Michail Antonio was full of praise for the centre-back last season, saying:

“He’s been unbelievable, he’s been a rock at the back, he’s like an old-school centre-half. He’s tough, he fights, he’s solid, he’s not scared to get down and deep, he’s been quality and he’s been solid for us. He came in not really to play, he’s taken his opportunity he’s taken his shirt and he’s not giving it up.”

This attitude and ability is exactly what Lopetegui needs in a relegation battle so if a move for Dawson can be done next month, then Wolves should be desperately trying to bring in the defender from West Ham.

West Bromwich Albion have seen themselves linked with few new players for the January transfer window, likely due to their financial issues that saw Steve Bruce hampered in the summer.

The ex-Baggies boss was afforded just £1.1m to spend, yet with a combination of shrewd business and free transfers managed to bring in eight new faces, however their form was so poor that he did not get to see out the season.

His replacement will now have to battle with the same issues, however having taken them on a three-game winning streak before the World Cup break, it seems that Carlos Corberan is having a better go at it than his predecessor.

Both seem to have suffered from a lack of goals however, which could soon be rectified by the return of Daryl Dike.

The 22-year-old marksman did not make it in time for a trip to Qatar with his nation, but had impressed previously with Barnsley and Orlando City.

At the former, he bagged nine times in just 22 appearances, whilst for the American outfit he had scored 19 times in 41 showings.

He had marked himself out as a consistent presence in front of the goal, making his injuries following last January’s transfer even more frustrating.

This season, his absence has likely led to one of the few rumours that have actually persisted, in Aston Villa youngster Cameron Archer.

The 20-year-old was linked all throughout the summer, but news has emerged over the week that suggests Sunderland could now be set to land him in January.

It would be a shame not to lure this young star to the Hawthorns, where he would surely strike up a fearsome partnership with the lethal American.

Having seen his chances limited this season, last campaign he proved his ability at all levels despite his youth.

After notching nine goals in eight appearances for the under-23s, he would also score four times in just two EFL Cup games for the senior squad before Preston North End would secure his services on loan.

His seven goals in 20 games would impress Ryan Lowe so much that he would lavish him with praise in the media: “Cameron has got an abundance of talent.

“His quality levels are fantastic, he’s bullish, strong, he can roll, he has got that little burst of pace too.”

To combine this with the goalscoring exploits of Dike, it could finally solve a long-standing problem for the Midlands outfit to build upon the already solid foundations Corberan has brought.

With a host of talented youth prospects, over the years there has been a steady stream of academy graduates who have gone on to make their mark in the Sunderland first team.

Whilst the likes of Jordan Pickford and Jordan Henderson might be the more notorious examples, even players such as Dan Neil and Lynden Gooch are currently making their impact for Tony Mowbray’s side.

The 58-year-old could now add another name to that list, with Caden Kelly an exciting versatile youngster who seems to have ability and maturity far beyond his age.

Having already featured at attacking midfield and on the wing, he draws similarities with Patrick Roberts for his technical proficiency rather than blistering speed.

Perhaps with the Englishman enduring an inconsistent season, outlined in his 6.85 average SofaScore rating, the 18-year-old could be slowly integrated with a view to one day replace the former Manchester City trickster.

Having set the U18s Premier League alight during the 2020/21 season, where he recorded eight goal contributions, he more than earned his promotion to the U23 side.

That step up again did not faze the teenager, as he would score twice and assist a further three before solidifying his place in that age group.

His progression has been so meteoric that this season he even made a cameo in the Black Cats’ 2-0 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday in the EFL Cup, his first senior appearance for the club and a huge statement of intent from Mowbray.

It is clear that Kelly is well thought of on Wearside, with journalist Josh Bunting taking to Twitter to further praise the youngster.

He claimed: “Caden Kelly is a very nice footballer for Sunderland, really technical, has excellent vision and that relates to good pass selection, plays through the lines with relative ease.”

It seems like he could possess the creative spark needed to unlock the tricky Championship defences they often face, and with Ellis Simms and Ross Stewart hopefully both to return soon, it could be a devastating combination should he be given a chance.

He could rival and even one day surpass Roberts, with a clear technical proficiency and a physicality that will come with time.

Rangers manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst currently finds himself under undoubted pressure in the job at Ibrox, according to transfer expert Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: Rangers performing poorly

The Gers are undoubtedly on a disappointing run of form at the moment, struggling to impress both domestically and in Europe.

The 7-1 defeat at home to Liverpool in the Champions League was a particularly low point, while Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home to Livingston hampered their Scottish Premiership title hopes.

It has left Van Bronckhorst under big pressure, with some supporters turning on the Dutchman.

The Latest: Van Bronckhorst under pressure

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jones hinted that a change of manager at Rangers may not be too far away:

“It’s a test of patience now with the fanbase and the ownership and for Van Bronckhorst. It’s a real test of his ability to get more out of this team, I guess.”

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The Verdict: Big job on his hands

There is certainly a swell of negativity at Rangers right now and Van Bronckhorst has a massive job on his hands when it comes to putting a stop to that.

A noticeable improvement in performances and results simply has to happen sooner rather than later, or the former Gers defender will find himself out of a job.

Granted, not much should be expected from Wednesday’s daunting trip to in-form Napoli, but only a convincing win will do at home to Aberdeen on Saturday if the Dutchman is to avoid the board’s patience running out.

Former BBC pundit Noel Whelan has backed Everton in their reported pursuit of Daniel Podence.

The Lowdown: Everton interest

It was reported earlier this week that Director of Football Kevin Thelwell is eyeing up a deal to sign Podence from his former club Wolves next year.

The Goodison Park outfit want to sign versatile attackers who are proven in the Premier League, and Podence’s agent Jorge Mendes is looking to find him a new club over the next few months, with his current deal in the Midlands expiring in 2024.

The Latest: Whelan backs move

Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan has backed the Merseyside club to sign Podence ‘on the cheap’, given his contract situation at Molineux:

“When I’ve watched him, I’ve really liked his pace and his direct style.

“He can play on the left and play up front – and he can come up with assists and goals.

“I think Everton can get him on the cheap, too, with his contract situation.

“He’s been in the Premier League three years, knows the demands, and can offer Everton something different out on the field.

“It’s a wise move. It will be well within the budget for Everton and freshen up that dressing room, as well as raise the game of other players in his position.”

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The Verdict: No-brainer

If Frank Lampard’s side can sign Podence for a cut-price, it is surely a no-brainer.

The winger fits the profile that they are looking for, and has plenty of experience in the Premier League, with eight goals and six assists over the last four seasons (Transfermarkt).

Incidentally, Podence has won all three matches that he has played against the Blues, so they know what he is capable of, and taking him from a direct rival would be a sweet bonus.

At 27 years of age, the Toffees would also be signing a player about to enter his prime.

Crystal Palace centre-back Joachim Andersen looks set to miss Sunday’s match with Leeds United with a calf issue.

The Lowdown: Chelsea absence

Andersen, hailed as a ‘massively important’ player by Patrick Vieira after making the move to Selhurst Park, missed his first Premier League game of the season last time out against Chelsea.

The 26-year-old was replaced by Joel Ward, and Vieira has another concern to deal with after Nathaniel Clyne was stretched off with an ankle issue. There was hope that Andersen could make a swift return on Sunday, however, it doesn’t look as if that will be the case.

The Latest: Out again?

London News Online’s Richard Cawley shared an update regarding Andersen’s condition on Thursday.

He claimed that the centre-back looks set to miss out again with the calf problem that kept him out of last weekend’s defeat to Chelsea.

The Verdict: Defensive headache

Injuries haven’t been kind to Vieira this season and it looks as if Andersen and Clyne will join fellow defender Chris Richards on the treatment table.

Vieira may be forced into another defensive reshuffle from the off as a result, with James Tomkins possibly being the man to come in.

That would allow Ward to ply his trade in his natural right-back role, with Tomkins possibly partnering Marc Guehi and Tyrick Mitchell continuing at left-back.

Sunderland have been dealt some more injury news alongside Ellis Simms involving Abdoullah Ba.

The Lowdown: Simms setback

Speaking to the media in his pre-game press conference ahead of their match at home to Preston North End in the Championship on Saturday afternoon, Tony Mowbray has confirmed (via The Chronicle) that Simms is unlikely to make his return after suffering some ligament damage on his big toe.

The Everton loanee was forced to come off early in the 3-0 away at Reading before the international break, and so missed their subsequent 2-2 draw against Watford last time out (Transfermarkt).

The Latest: Ba also injured

In his conference, Mowbray also confirmed (via The Chronicle) that Ba has suffered a ‘dead leg’ while on international duty with the France U20 national team, and so he could also miss the Preston clash, although he is still going to train with the squad:

“As for Abdoullah Ba, he picked up a bit of a dead leg, but he is going to train, and we will see how he is.”

The Verdict: Not ideal

Potentially having both Simms and Ba ruled out of the game is certainly not ideal for Mowbray and his side.

The Wearside supporters have only seen 11 minutes of the latter in action since arriving in the summer transfer window, and would have hoped that the international break would have given him time to work on his fitness and sharpness, thus being ready to start matches for the Black Cats.

Instead, it is unclear whether Ba will be risked at all for the weekend, with Mowbray unlikely to want to aggravate the injury that he now has.

Celtic are closing in on the imminent signing of Rubin Kazan winger Sead Haksabanovic, according to a fresh transfer update that emerged overnight.

The Lowdown: Haksabanovic link emerges

On Thursday, it was claimed that the Hoops are in the process of opening talks to sign the 23-year-old, as Ange Postecoglou looks to add more quality and depth to his squad ahead of a gruelling campaign.

Haksabanovic has won 28 caps for Montenegro, scoring once along the way, as well as bagging four assists in 23 appearances for his current club Kazan.

A young player already with so much experience – 184 senior club games to be exact – he looks tailor made to come in and fight for a place under Postecoglou, and a midnight update on Friday morning suggests that will be the case.

The Latest: Move nearly done

According to The Times, Celtic are ‘closing in’ on the permanent acquisition of Haksabanovic, who is currently training alone in Sweden after the war in Ukraine affected his career at Kazan.

Ange has pledged to continue his big moves in the market ‘right up to the end of the summer window’.

It is claimed that the Hoops could now sign him for ‘less than his £6million valuation’, due to his contract being suspended by FIFA.

The Verdict: Strong addition for Hoops

This is an exciting signing for Celtic, with Haksabanovic described as a ‘huge, huge talent’ by journalist Marcus Christenson when he joined West Ham in 2017, while Football Wonderkids called him ‘class’ for his bounce-back form after he left the Irons.

While the Montenegrin arguably hasn’t yet kicked on and reached the heights many predicted, he is someone who will bring quality and unpredictability out wide for the Hoops – he averaged two key passes and 1.5 dribbles per game for his country in World Cup qualifying.

With a Scottish Premiership title battle and Champions League football to contend with this season, Haksabanovic could be a great option who makes the difference at key moments when the matches start coming thick and fast.

Southampton’s hopes of signing Manchester City striker Liam Delap have been given a boost, as Pep Guardiola has confirmed that the teenage forward will leave the Etihad on loan.

What’s the word?

Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side have been heavily linked with the 19-year-old throughout the window, and while they are said to have made a bid to sign him permanently, a loan move seems more likely at this point after having a £16m offer rejected.

Guardiola confirmed earlier this week that: “We loaned ‘Macca’ [James McAtee, to Sheffield United], Liam is in that process because we have Erling and Julian and he needs minutes. The EDS phase is done. He has to try and go there and play the other ones.”

Shields must act

Southampton are arguably looking weaker up front than they did last season, as they have lost Armando Broja and Shane Long, with only 20-year-old Sekou Mara arriving as a new striker.

Delap, who reportedly earns £8k per week, has been in sensational form for Manchester City’s academy side in recent seasons, hitting 35 goals and nine assists in just 36 appearances for the U21s.

He also scored on his debut for the senior side in a cup win against Bournemouth so is clearly in Guardiola’s future plans, but is unlikely to get game time ahead of new signings Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez this season.

The forward, who Guardiola dubbed “exceptional”, could be exactly what Hasenhuttl needs in his squad after a difficult start to the season which has seen his side ship six goals, while all three goals they have scored have come from midfielders or defenders.

Reports have suggested that Che Adams could also leave St Mary’s, which again emphasises the need for a new striker, otherwise, Hasenhuttl would be left with very little depth in attack.

Delap could be a superb addition on loan, especially if he can follow in the footsteps of other successful loanees such as Broja and Kyle Walker-Peters in recent seasons.

Walker-Peters has been such a hit that he’s already been linked with some of the league’s big boys while Broja is set to earn his chance at Chelsea after bagging nine times throughout 2021/22.

A loan move could also open the door to a permanent swoop in the future, as we saw with the Walker-Peters deal, so head of recruitment Joe Shields must act quickly to bring him to the south coast after seemingly being handed a golden chance to seal a deal.