Crystal Palace defender Daniel Muñoz is fast emerging as one of the most sought-after players ahead of the winter transfer window, following a string of standout performances in the Premier League.

The Colombian international, known for his relentless energy and attacking instincts, has impressed scouts across Europe and now finds himself at the centre of growing transfer speculation.

Manchester City have been keeping a close eye on Muñoz in recent months, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

Pep Guardiola is said to admire the 29-year-old’s athleticism, pressing intensity, and overlapping runs, traits that fit perfectly into City’s high-possession, aggressive full-back system.

While City’s interest has yet to translate into a formal offer, sources suggest that their recruitment team has compiled extensive scouting data on the Colombian.

Man City face competition to sign Daniel Muñoz

Elsewhere, Chelsea and Manchester United are also monitoring Muñoz’s development.

Both the Premier League giants are looking to add more strength to the defensive positions and the Palace defender is a player who also add attacking quality in the side from the wide position.

Liverpool have joined the race, viewing Muñoz as a versatile defensive option who could offer depth and competition to Jeremie Frimpong, their summer recruit.

The Reds have scouted several right-backs in recent months as part of a gradual rebuild under Arne Slot, with Muñoz’s adaptability and consistency catching the eye.

On the European stage, Barcelona and Atlético Madrid are also following developments closely.

Spanish media claim that both clubs appreciate Muñoz’s tactical discipline and attacking output, he has registered multiple goal contributions from defense this season but acknowledge that Palace’s valuation could pose a challenge.

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Crystal Palace have no desire to sell Muñoz

Despite growing attention, Crystal Palace have made it clear that Muñoz is not for sale in January.

he club regard him as a vital part of Oliver Glasner’s system, particularly after the departures and injuries that have left their defensive unit stretched.

Palace chairman Steve Parish is said to be confident of keeping hold of the player until at least the summer, though insiders admit that strong offers in 2026 could test their resolve.

With Muñoz under contract until 2028, Palace are under no pressure to sell but the reality of big-money bids from Europe’s elite could shift the situation sooner rather than later.

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Manchester United’s highly-rated young midfielder, Kobbie Mainoo, has become a key player in the rumour mill due to a lack of consistent game time at Old Trafford.

Major European clubs, including Chelsea, are closely monitoring his situation.

Mainoo is reportedly eager for a move to secure more game time to bolster his chances of making the England squad for the 2026 World Cup. He is actively seeking a fresh challenge to accelerate his development.

Kobbie Mainoo prefers Napoli

Although at least 12 clubs are reportedly in the race, sources close to the situation have informed CaughtOffside that Chelsea and Bayern Munich are “leading the chase”. However, the player’s personal preference list still places Napoli as the frontrunner. Mainoo is prioritising where he can be a guaranteed starter as he plots his next move.

Scott McTominay has done quite well at Napoli, leaving Manchester United, and the 20-year-old midfielder is looking to follow in his footsteps. Napoli will be able to provide him with regular opportunities, and he will be able to work with a world-class manager like Antonio Conte at the Italian club.

Mainoo is a promising player with a bright future, and he could develop into a key player for Napoli with the right guidance. It will be interesting to see if the Italian club can get the deal done.

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Chelsea could use Mainoo

Meanwhile, Chelsea are among the clubs leading the race to sign the player. They need more control in the middle of the park. The Manchester United player is well settled in English football, and he could make an immediate impact. He could complement the likes of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo. The youngster has the quality to complete their midfield for the foreseeable future.

It will be interesting to see if they can convince Manchester United to sell. They are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and the England International midfielder could be the final piece of the puzzle for them.

The post Sources: Chelsea “leading the chase” as 12 clubs enter race to sign Premier League prodigy appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Igor Thiago has become one of the standout names of the winter transfer window. His strong performances for Brentford have put him firmly on the radar of Premier League giants.

Sources close to the player’s situation have informed CaughtOffside that Tottenham, Newcastle and Aston Villa are all showing “serious interest”, while clubs from Serie A and La Liga are also keeping an eye on the Brazilian striker.

Thiago has 12 goals in 16 matches this season.

Brentford set Igor Thiago asking price

Brentford’s stance is clear, and the club has set a price as high as €70 million, with some reports even mentioning £70 million. That figure makes a January move difficult, especially given Thiago’s contract until 2029. Brentford are reluctant to lose such a key player midway through the season.

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery sees Thiago as a long-term alternative to Ollie Watkins and could push for a bid in the €50–57 million range. Tottenham have explored a loan deal, but Brentford are not open to it. Newcastle, who signed Yoane Wissa from Brentford in the summer but have yet to see him play due to injury, view Thiago as the ideal signing to strengthen their attack.

Given Brentford’s position, a big move in January looks unlikely. However, strong offers are expected to arrive in the summer. For Thiago, the priority remains playing regularly and performing well to secure his place in Brazil’s squad for the upcoming World Cup.

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Tottenham move could tempt Thiago

He will look to compete at a high-level and join a big club. The move to Tottenham would probably be more attractive for him compared to the other two clubs. Tottenham have an exciting project, and they recently won the UEFA Europa League. A quality striker could make a huge difference for them in the final third, and the move would be ideal for all parties.

It will be interesting to see if they are willing to pay the asking price in the summer.

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Liverpool have been plunged into uncertainty over the future of Ibrahima Konaté, with the French centre-back yet to commit to a new deal amid mounting interest from European giants Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.

The 25-year-old’s contract runs until the summer of 2026, but his hesitation to extend has set off alarm bells at Anfield, forcing the club’s hierarchy to activate an emergency succession plan for one of their most important players.

Konaté has been a key figure in the Reds’ defensive structure when fit, forming a formidable partnership with Virgil van Dijk.

However, the player’s reluctance to open fresh negotiations have left sporting director Richard Hughes and manager Arne Slot contemplating the club’s next steps.

PSG are long-time admirers of Konaté, viewing him as a natural successor to Marquinhos, while Real Madrid have placed him on their defensive shortlist for 2026 as they look to refresh their backline, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

With Liverpool’s defensive rebuild already overdue, Konaté’s uncertain future could accelerate the club’s recruitment drive.

Reds have drawn up a three-man shortlist

1. Jeremy Jacquet (Rennes)

The frontrunner is Jérémy Jacquet, Rennes’ highly rated 20-year-old French defender. Jacquet has been extensively scouted by Liverpool this season, with analysts impressed by his composure and leadership qualities beyond his years. Sources close to Rennes claim Liverpool scouts were in attendance for multiple Ligue 1 fixtures, convinced the youngster could develop into a world-class operator under Slot’s guidance.

2. Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace)

Another name firmly on the radar is Marc Guéhi, whose experience in the Premier League and status as a homegrown player make him an attractive option. The 25-year-old England international has been one of the most consistent defenders in the division, and Liverpool view him as a ready-made partner for Van Dijk. With Guéhi reportedly open to a new challenge, a deal could become realistic soon.

3. Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund)

Completing the shortlist is Nico Schlotterbeck, the 26-year-old left-footed centre-back from Borussia Dortmund. Known for his technical ability and confidence in playing out from the back, Schlotterbeck fits perfectly into Slot’s possession-based, high-pressing system. Ongoing contract issues between the player and Dortmund have not gone unnoticed at Anfield, with insiders suggesting Liverpool could pounce if negotiations break down further.

Liverpool are still hopeful of keeping Konaté

Despite contingency planning, Liverpool’s priority remains extending Konaté’s contract. The club’s hierarchy believe he can be a cornerstone of their defense for years to come, particularly as Van Dijk approaches the twilight of his career.

However, with no breakthrough in talks and interest growing from abroad, the Reds are preparing for all outcomes.

Sources close to the club insist there is no immediate panic, but the upcoming months will be decisive.

If no agreement is reached before the summer window, Liverpool are expected to move decisively for one of their shortlisted targets to ensure defensive stability ahead of the 2026 season.

Liverpool already have a replacement in mind if Mo Salah leaves in January

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Raheem Sterling’s future at Chelsea has become uncertain with the Blues ready to let the winger leave the club, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

The 31-year-old winger, once regarded as one of England’s most dynamic forwards, now finds himself on the fringes of Enzo Maresca’s squad, and with game time hard to come by, an exit from Stamford Bridge appears increasingly likely.

Chelsea are open to letting Sterling leave this winter, with the player’s wages posing a major financial burden for the club.

While Sterling remains under contract, senior figures at Stamford Bridge are believed to be exploring various exit options, including a permanent transfer, loan move, or even a mutual termination if no suitable deal emerges.

Sterling has scored 19 goals in 81 appearances for the Blues.

Chelsea are looking to cut their cost

The move aligns with Chelsea’s cost-control strategy under the ownership of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, who are seeking to balance the wage structure and create room for younger, developing players.

Despite his experience and pedigree, Sterling’s lack of consistency and limited involvement under Maresca have made him a prime candidate to leave in January.

Interest in the former Manchester City star is strong within the Premier League.

Crystal Palace have expressed admiration for Sterling’s experience and versatility, with manager Oliver Glasner eager to add attacking depth amid injury concerns in his forward line.

Meanwhile, Leeds United, currently pushing to avoid relegation, view Sterling as a potential marquee signing who could inject pace, creativity, and top-flight experience into their attack.

Sterling’s name continues to circulate across Europe and beyond. Bayern Munich explored a potential loan deal in the past, and Saudi Pro League clubs have reportedly renewed their interest in signing the winger.

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Raheem Sterling wants to stay in Europe

However, Sterling’s priority remains in Europe, where he hopes to rebuild his form and reputation through regular football.

Once a guaranteed starter for club and country, he has slipped out of the England squad, and sources close to the player say he’s determined to revive his career in a competitive environment rather than chase a high-paying move abroad.

A January exit now appears more a matter of when than if. Chelsea are expected to hold further talks with interested clubs in the coming weeks, with Crystal Palace currently considered the frontrunner due to their Premier League status and playing style that suits Sterling’s strengths.

If a deal materialises, it would mark the end of a turbulent chapter in Sterling’s career and perhaps offer him the chance to rediscover the spark that once made him one of English football’s most feared attackers.

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Manchester United seem increasingly open to cashing in on Bruno Fernandes, who remains a target for Saudi Pro League clubs.

As first reported here in the Daily Briefing, sources “expect bids” for Fernandes as both Al Hilal and Al Ittihad show a strong interest in him.

It’s anticipated that Man Utd could sell Fernandes for around £70m, with the Portugal international regarded as their most sellable asset.

This comes as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have been eager to make the club more financially stable since taking over.

Bruno Fernandes sale may be necessary to fund new Man United signings

With United targeting ambitious signings in midfield such as Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba, it seems Fernandes has been identified as someone worth cashing in on to help fund those moves.

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Red Devils fans might not be too keen to see a top player like Fernandes leave, but it’s also true that he’s not getting any younger and this might be their last chance to make big money from his departure.

If that helps MUFC build for the future with elite young midfielders like Anderson and Baleba, it would surely go down as good business in the long-term, even if there’s some short-term pain.

Bruno Fernandes transfer exit could be a big risk

For now, though, is it actually worth offloading someone as influential as Fernandes while Ruben Amorim is still rebuilding this side and trying to get more consistency?

Just see below as Fernandes is rated by FotMob as United’s best performer this season, while he’s top for assists and second for goals…

It might be tempting to think Fernandes’ influence will soon wane with age, but some top players have continued to go on performing at the very highest level well into their late 30s, so this is clearly something the club need to think carefully about.

The post Sources: “Expect bids” – Man United ready to sell £70m star to help fund two big signings appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea are one of the clubs interested in a transfer move for Sporting Lisbon centre-back Ousmane Diomande, but they face competition from Crystal Palace.

As first reported here for the Daily Briefing, the Eagles are making Diomande a top target to replace Marc Guehi, who continues to be targeted by Liverpool and other big clubs around Europe.

Sporting don’t want to sell Diomande and are pointing to his €80m release clause, which one imagines could prove problematic for Palace, but perhaps less so for Chelsea.

Other top clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal, and Newcastle are also understood to have scouted Diomande in recent times.

Crystal Palace showing concrete interest in Ousmane Diomande

The current feeling among sources in the industry is that Palace are showing the strongest interest in Diomande, followed by Chelsea.

This is a clear signal that the south Londoners are planning for life without Guehi, who won’t be signing a new contract and who is due to become a free agent next summer.

The England international was targeted by Liverpool towards the end of last summer’s transfer window, only for Palace to pull the plug late on as they didn’t have a replacement.

If they can land a talent like Diomande to strengthen their defence, however, then that would help fill the gap left by Guehi.

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Marc Guehi not necessarily joining Liverpool

LFC fans will no doubt hope this is a boost for them in their pursuit of Guehi, but it doesn’t necessarily mean Anfield will be his next destination.

The 25-year-old will have numerous other suitors in for him, so in many ways Palace’s interest in Diomande doesn’t directly change that much.

It is yet another indication, however, that Guehi’s future lies away from Selhurst Park, so some Reds fans will surely see that as a positive, even if that already looked likely some time ago anyway.

The post Sources: PL club eyeing Chelsea transfer target in saga that could impact Liverpool appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal are eyeing both Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Goes and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao as long-term targets in attack, and are not currently seeking to sign a new striker.

As first reported here in my exclusive for the Daily Briefing, Arsenal still have a lot of faith in Viktor Gyokeres after spending big to sign him from Sporting Lisbon in the summer.

As such, the Gunners are not looking for a new centre-forward to replace Gyokeres, but are keeping in mind other attackers who could come in to help the Sweden international.

Sources tell me the names that feature most high up on Arsenal’s list are Rodrygo and Leao, who have long been on the north Londoners’ radar.

Arsenal relaxed about Viktor Gyokeres but eyeing Rodrygo Goes and Rafael Leao

Arsenal have made changes to their attack in recent times, with Gyokeres not the only new addition to Mikel Arteta’s front three over the summer.

Noni Madueke also joined, and has played on both the left and right flanks, while Eberechi Eze has also sometimes been used in a front three when he’s not deputised for Martin Odegaard in a more central role.

Still, Leandro Trossard is not getting any younger, and Gabriel Martinelli has been a little inconsistent, while both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz have had a lot of injury troubles.

That could leave room for a player of the profile or Rodrygo or Leao to come in and offer something different to help generally improve the strength of that front three.

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Gyokeres would then also benefit from that, with things perhaps not entirely clicking yet between the 27-year-old and the team’s current attackers.

Could Rodrygo or Leao strengthen Arsenal?

Rodrygo hasn’t exactly been at his best recently, so some Arsenal fans might view that as a risky signing.

Leao has mostly shone for Milan so would likely be a popular choice, and the stats below seem to back up that he might have the most all-round qualities to offer in that role…

Leao has this season performed best on non penalty goals and expected goals, as well as key passes and assists, though Rodrygo stands out for his dribbles and carries.

It will be interesting to see if either of these players end up being top targets soon, or if Arteta can work out an internal solution to get more out of Gyokeres at centre-forward.

The post Sources: Arsenal eyeing two attacker signings as stance on Viktor Gyokeres emerges appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool are understood to be eyeing up Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as they begin background work on replacing Mohamed Salah.

As first reported here for the Daily Briefing, sources have informed me that there’s a genuine possibility of Salah leaving Anfield, and the Reds could look to Barcola alongside other targets like Antoine Semenyo as a possible replacement.

One issue, however, is that PSG currently prefer to keep Barcola, and could even try tying the 23-year-old down to a new contract, with his current deal due to end in 2028.

Is Bradley Barcola a realistic transfer target for Liverpool?

Even if PSG want to keep Barcola, it seems sources view this as a potentially realistic deal for Liverpool.

Barcola hasn’t managed to establish himself as an automatic starter for PSG due to there being so much competition in Luis Enrique’s side, so he might well be tempted to seek a move elsewhere.

The Frenchman could have a key role if he joined LFC to replace Salah, while sources also suggested that other big names like Manchester United could be in for him.

“Liverpool have already begun background work on replacing Salah,” one well-placed figure in the industry told me. “A player they really like, and have been following closely for some time, is Bradley Barcola.”

Other sources suggested that Barcola would be “open” to considering his options, so that could open up an opportunity for Liverpool.

What could Barcola bring to Liverpool?

Barcola has pace, skill, and an eye for goal from out wide, and given his age, he surely still has his best years ahead of him.

With a total of six goals and five assists in all competitions for club and country this season, it’s clear that Barcola is adding consistent end-product to his game as he matures and develops.

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Then again, it won’t be easy for anyone to replace a legendary figure like Salah, who has a total of 250 goals in 420 appearances for Liverpool.

Salah has often hit over 30 goals a season for the Reds, so Barcola on his own probably wouldn’t be enough to replace that kind of output, with the club also likely to need more from current players like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz in attack.

The post Sources: Liverpool begin “work on replacing Salah” with 11 G/A Man United transfer target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool are understood to have agreed personal terms with Antoine Semenyo whilst also matching Manchester City’s offer to the Bournemouth forward.

I can reveal exclusively for CaughtOffside that the Reds have reached an agreement with Semenyo over a move for January, with the Ghana international now set to decide between a move to Anfield or the Etihad Stadium.

Semenyo had already agreed terms with Man City, but it seems Liverpool have now matched their offer to the player, so it’s currently down to his personal preference as he decides his future for January.

It looks likely that Semenyo will be on his way out of Bournemouth, with both these clubs advancing, though it’s still required that any interested parties meet his £65m release clause.

Antoine Semenyo’s release clause details as Liverpool & Man City chase transfer

According to my information from top sources, Semenyo can leave Bournemouth for £65m, but that clause expires before the 10th of January and is no longer valid for the rest of the month.

The Cherries have another clause for £5m less but that doesn’t become active until the summer transfer window.

This gives Liverpool and City a bit of a time limit, but it looks like both sides are doing their best to get as much of this agreement done now so as to be in a strong position when the window opens in January.

Who will Semenyo join out of Liverpool or City?

Semenyo is yet to make a final decision on his future, with both Liverpool and City satisfying his demands with their respective contract offers.

The 25-year-old will not rush into a decision and it will be interesting to see who he ends up going for, while he might also wait and see if other clubs come in for him.

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There have been suggestions of LFC being frontrunners for Semenyo, but there are many factors which could still come into play to impact this outcome, such as the future of manager Arne Slot and whether or not Mohamed Salah is sold or not.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have also been linked with Semenyo quite strongly in recent times, so there’s still time for this to turn into an even bigger battle for his signature.

The post Exclusive: Liverpool agree terms with £65m star and match Man City offer in attempt to hijack transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Austrian centre-back David Affengruber, who has impressed this season with his performances for Elche in La Liga.

However, while reports linking the 24-year-old to Old Trafford continue to circulate, sources inside the club insist that midfield reinforcements remain the club’s main focus heading into the January transfer window, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

Affengruber has been one of the standout defenders in Spain this season. Man United scouts have attended multiple Elche fixtures, and internal reports on the Austrian’s performances have been “highly positive”.

Elche, aware of the growing interest from Europe’s top clubs, have moved quickly to protect their asset. The La Liga side have set a price tag of around €30 million in hopes of deterring a January move.

Midfield addition remains the priority for Man United

While Affengruber is viewed as a long-term investment, United are not expected to prioritise a move for the defender in the upcoming window, given their more pressing need for midfield reinforcement.

The Red Devils’ recruitment team has placed midfield reconstruction at the top of the club’s transfer agenda.

Sources indicate that Casemiro’s declining form and fitness issues, coupled with his age and potential exit at the end of the season, have accelerated plans to bring in younger, more dynamic options.

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United have identified their midfield targets

Man United’s shortlist includes Angelo Stiller of VfB Stuttgart, Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest, and João Gomes from Wolves.

All three have been identified as players capable of fitting into Amorim’s high-energy pressing system.

The club’s hierarchy believes that solidifying the midfield will not only improve defensive stability but also provide the creativity and energy needed to support the forward line.

United are expected to continue monitoring Affengruber and other central defenders. Alongside the Austrian, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite remains a long-term target.

Man United’s January business will likely revolve around midfield upgrades, but the club continues to build an extensive network of young defensive targets for the summer.

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Argentine striker Joaquín Panichelli has become one of the most sought-after young talents in Europe, with several elite clubs vying for his signature ahead of the January transfer window.

The 23-year-old has taken Ligue 1 by storm this season, emerging as a breakout star for RC Strasbourg and now finds himself firmly on the radar of Chelsea, who are leading the chase thanks to their close ownership ties with the French club, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

Panichelli has already managed to score 10 goals this season in 19 appearances for the French club.

His performances have not only established him as Strasbourg’s key man but also caught the attention of Europe’s biggest sides, from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid to Manchester United and Aston Villa.

Chelsea lead race to sign Ligue 1 attacker

Given that both Strasbourg and Chelsea operate under the BlueCo umbrella, a potential move to Stamford Bridge is seen internally as a natural progression in Panichelli’s career.

Chelsea scouts have attended multiple Strasbourg games this season, with manager Enzo Maresca personally expressing admiration for the young forward’s technical ability and composure in front of goal.

Chelsea’s attacking department remains a work in progress, and Panichelli’s arrival would align with the club’s strategy of investing in high-upside, young talents capable of growing within Maresca’s system.

Strasbourg president Marc Keller has previously admitted that the club’s partnership with Chelsea involves an expectation of talent sharing between the two sides.

Despite Chelsea’s structural advantage, competition is heating up across Europe.

Barcelona, currently planning for life after Robert Lewandowski, are said to be particularly intrigued by Panichelli’s style of play.

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Blues face competition from top European clubs

The Catalans see him as a long-term project, a young, technically proficient forward capable of adapting to Hansi Flick’s fluid attacking system.

Atletico Madrid have also entered the race. Diego Simeone is reportedly looking for a young striker.

Meanwhile, in England, Manchester United and Aston Villa have expressed indirect interest through intermediaries.

Chelsea’s ownership structure gives them a unique advantage, but the competition from established European clubs may complicate negotiations.

For now, the Argentine striker remains focused on his football, but it seems only a matter of time before he makes the leap to one of Europe’s elite.

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