Massimiliano Allegri believes that there is still room for improvement for his Milan side, despite picking up a 3-0 victory away against Bologna in the absence of Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic and Alexis Saelemaekers on Tuesday night.
The Rossoneri extended their unbeaten Serie A run to 22 matches thank to goals from Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Christopher Nkunku and Adrien Rabiot in an eventual 3-0 romp at the Dall’Ara on Tuesday evening.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Massimiliano Allegri head coach of AC Milan during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Speaking to DAZN after full-time, Allegri explained that Milan played well because they were able to get the best out of their makeshift strike partnership of Nkunku and Loftus-Cheek, who had never previously started up front together before Tuesday night.
“Nkunku and Loftus-Cheek are players of enormous quality,” Allegri told DAZN after full-time.
“It was always going to be a game that we needed to take seriously, because they have been very decent at the back. Bologna are a dangerous team that plays well. The boys did well defensively and offensively.”
Despite the scoreline, Allegri feels that there is still room for improvement among the current Milan squad.
“It was a good game tonight. In my opinion, we have to do better in ball management. We played well because Nkunku and Loftus-Cheek did well, allowing us to play with the ball and giving us depth.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan competes for the ball with Federico Ravaglia of Bologna FC during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
And when asked which parts of Milan’s performance he enjoyed the most, Allegri said: “It was important for us to get to 50 points for the season because our goal has always been to reach the top four.
We defended very well from 3-0, not conceding is always good. It’s more important to look ahead, because it’s a long season and we still need a lot more points to qualify for the Champions League. We’ll enjoy this break, because we’re not playing on Sunday, and will hope to have all our players available again.”
Vincenzo Italiano was left bemused and questioning why his Bologna side do not seem able to put in a decent performance for two matches in a row after falling to a disappointing 3-0 defeat at home against Milan on Tuesday night.
The Rossoblu were a defensive mess on the night and were soundly beaten after goals from Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Christopher Nkunku and Adrien Rabiot, two of which were of their own doing.
Italiano: ‘Bologna conceding at every slightest mistake’
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Vincnzo Italiano head coach of Bologna FC during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Speaking to DAZN after full-time, Italiano said that he thought his players were looking confident in the build-up to the Milan clash, but believes that costly mistakes at the back are hurting his side, who have slipped down to 10th place in the table.
“My analysis is that we were very confident. We approached it well, but we don’t seem to be able to put in two consecutive top-level performances,” Italiano told DAZN after full-time.
“Unfortunately we’re conceding goals at every slightest mistake. We’re paying for every blunder. We were light at the back and they hurt us. We stayed in the game and tried to put them in difficulty, but we can’t play well one game after the other and we have to work on that.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan competes for the ball with Federico Ravaglia of Bologna FC during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The Rossoblu admits that for one reason or another, Bologna haven’t been the same since their appearance in the Supercoppa Italiana final in December.
“We’ve lost a bit of brilliance and a bit of solidity from there. We’ve been ourselves at times, but we can’t have this lack of continuity in our performance or concentration. We have to be more careful.
“We had a lot of enthusiasm for this game after the match against Maccabi, thanks also to the arrivals of the new players. We have time to put things back to how they should be, If we can find the key in these next three months, everything will be back in order.”
Italiano was also asked if he expected to see more from the likes of Riccardo Orsolini or Santiago Castro.
He replied: “It’s normal that every team has its key players to unlock games. Quality players make the difference and fix things for you when things aren’t going well. We’re playing in flashes, showing ups and downs, which isn’t good. We have to find the balance and that is what makes the difference.”
The Rossoneri extended their unbeaten Serie A run to 22 matches thanks to goals from Loftus-Cheek, Christopher Nkunku and Adrien Rabiot in Emilia Romagna on Tuesday evening.
Bologna will be left feeling disappointed with themselves, however, after giving away a first-half penalty and then gifting Milan their third less than three minutes into the second period.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Fans of Bologna during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Best Bologna player: Ravaglia 5.5 – Slim pickings on what was another poor night on home soil for the Rossoblu. Somehow, despite giving away a first-half penalty, goalkeeper Ravaglia was probably Bologna’s best performer on the night. After getting it wrong one-on-one with Nkunku in the first half, the stopper timed his saves well from there on in and prevented the scoreline from being even more severe.
Coach: Vincenzo Italiano 4 – Bologna’s poor start to 2026 is now turning into a major issue. Only one win from seven league matches since the start of the calendar year and just two points picked up at home from their last five matches across all competitions. Bologna were a defensive mess on Tuesday night, from the penalty they gave away to the ludicrous throw-in that gifted the Rossoneri their third straight after half-time. Milan, had they been a bit more effective in the final third, could have made it five or six: Loftus-Cheek, Nkunku and Fullkrug all ended up one-on-one with Ravaglia at various stages.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Best Milan players: Rabiot and Nkunku 7.5 – Not much to separate the two Frenchman, who both ended up on the scoresheet and both combined for Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s first-half opener. Five goals from his last seven Serie A matches for Nkunku: Trying his best to prove why Milan can live without Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta. Another goalscoring performance from Rabiot, who has three in his last four league matches. No wonder Allegri wanted him so badly over the summer.
Coach: Massimiliano Allegri 6.5 – This was a victory that sums up the way Mian have been playing for much of this season. It was a convincing scoreline, the likes of Rabiot and Modric were on fine form, but the Rossoneri still let their opponents see a lot of the ball, even before they went 3-0 up early in the second half. Allegri will be delighted with the fact that Milan have scored three without either of their star attackers – Leao or Pulisic – and with the clean sheet away from home.
Arsenal have officially booked their place at Wembley for the Carabao Cup final after a pulsating 2-1 victory over Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium, securing a 4-2 aggregate win.
While the night ended in celebration, the closing stages were defined by a moment of pure tactical tension that saw Mikel Arteta lose his composure just seconds before the decisive blow was landed.
Mikel Arteta was going ‘mad’ before Kai Havertz winner
(Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
As Chelsea pushed for a late equaliser to force extra time, the atmosphere in North London reached a fever pitch.
With Arsenal clinging to a narrow lead, the ball appeared to drift out of play during a frantic Chelsea buildup, yet play was allowed to continue.
Former England international Matt Upson, commentating for BBC Radio 5 Live, reported the frantic energy on the touchline.
“Well, 30 seconds ago Mikel Arteta was going mad that the referee had not blown his whistle.
“It has been a high-pressure last 10 minutes.” Arteta was seen frantically gesturing at the fourth official, convinced his side was being denied a blatant stoppage.
However, that frustration leftin an instant. Arsenal intercepted the resulting play, launching a lightning-fast counter-attack while the Chelsea defense was still over-committed in the final third.
Arsenal likely to face Man City in final Wembley showdown
The win means Arsenal will now face one of Manchester City or Newcastle in the final of the competition.
Their most likely opponents are going to be Pep Guardiola’s side who lead 2-0 on aggregate.
The return fixture is at Etihad where the home side are favourites to beat the defending champions and book the place in the final.
Man City have not been at their usual best this season. In contrast, Arsenal look their strongest self and are full of confidence at the moment, with Arteta doing an incredible job at the club.
Could the League Cup be the first of multiple trophies Arsenal will win this season?
Milan were unable to seal a deadline day transfer for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, but the Rossoneri were still celebrating after the window closed thanks to a 3-0 victory away against Bologna in Serie A in the absence of Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic on Tuesday night: Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Christopher Nkunku and Adrien Rabiot with the goals at the Dall’Ara.
Bologna had only won one of their six Serie A matches in 2026 before kick-off, while Milan, coming off the back of a 1-1 draw with Roma last week, required a victory if they were to continue applying the pressure on Inter at the top of the league table.
Bologna were without suspended goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski, and were also without star centre-back Jhon Lucumi through injury. There was no Pulisic, Alexis Saelemaekers or Santiago Gimenez in the Milan squad through injury. Leao was only fit enough for a spot on the bench, and with Niclas Fullkrug also named among the substitutes, there was a new Rossoneri strike partnership of Nkunku and Loftus-Cheek.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Fans of Bologna during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Bologna started proceedings encouragingly through Juan Miranda and Jonathan Rowe and earned a series of free-kicks and corners which they were unable to capitalise from.
Milan started to grow into things after a quarter of an hour and came close to finding the back of the net after Zachary Athekame found the head of Youssouf Fofana with his cross in from the right flank. The Frenchman glanced his header just wide of the upright.
Milan found their opener two minutes later. Nkunku was allowed a free header in the area, which was initially saved by Federico Ravaglia. The goalkeeper parried the rebound into the feet of Adrien Rabiot, who tapped to Loftus-Cheek to finish from 10 yards out.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan scores the opening goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Nkunku and Loftus-Cheek combined again to double the Rossoneri advantage 10 minutes before the interval. The Englishman slipped his strike partner into the area, Ravaglia came out in an attempt to stop him, but got the timing wrong and tripped Nkunku up in the box.
A penalty was awarded, a VAR check confirmed the correct decision was made, and Nkunku converted the spot kick low and to his right, sending Ravaglia the wrong way in the process.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan scores his team second goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Moments after the second half kicked off, Juan Miranda sent a ludicrous long throw right into no-man’s land from within his own half. Rabiot spotted the opportunity, nicked the ball, raced through on goal and made no mistake one-on-one for 3-0.
Clear-cut opportunities began to dry up from that point onwards: Bologna were afforded plenty of possession in the second half, but were unable to do much to break down Milan’s block.
Niclas Fullkrug was sent through on goal after a long ball over the top after being introduced as a second half substitute. He chopped back inside Torbjorn Heggem, but ended up running straight into goalkeeper Ravaglia.
Realistically, the job was already done for Milan when Rabiot made it three just a few minutes into the second half. Their unbeaten run in Serie A is now up to 22 matches. They find themselves five points shy of league leaders Inter. Bologna, meanwhile, are stuck in 10th and could now drop into the bottom half of the table if they fail to win next weekend.
The young attacker needs to play regularly to further develop. Sitting on the bench at the English club will not benefit him. It is clear that Sunderland does not consider him a key player, and it would be ideal for him to seek a summer exit.
It will be interesting to see where he ends up. The former Brighton attacker is a technically gifted player with a bright future. Joining the right team could bring out the best in him. He will add peace and flair from the flanks, and he is versatile enough to operate on either wing.
As quoted by Sport News Africa, La Nouvelle Chaine Ivoirienne reporter Alex Payne said: “Simon Adingra is a technically gifted player, but not explosive. He’s also not very involved in defensive efforts, which is what you need to succeed in the Premier League. There, they no longer want simply talented players, but complete athletes who give their all match after match. It’s very intense.
Journalist Izoudine Ilupeju added: “For his own good, he needs to leave the English league as soon as possible. He hasn’t been able to find his feet even though he has the ability, but when things aren’t working out, you have to look elsewhere. [Roberto] De Zerbi, in particular, wanted to bring him to Marseille, but unfortunately, no such luck. He could look at the French, German, Belgian, or Dutch leagues to get in shape and shine.”
Simon Adingra in action during the Premier League match between Sunderland and West Ham United. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Sunderland have had an impressive season so far, and they are pushing for a place in the top half. It remains to be seen whether they can finish the season strongly. It would make sense for them to sell that African attacker in the summer and bring in an upgrade. Keeping him on the bench will not benefit them. They should look to bring in someone who can make an immediate impact on the first team. A summer exit would be ideal for all parties.
Bruno Guimaraes has been exceptional for Newcastle United since joining the club, and he has been linked with a move away in recent seasons.
Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has now suggested that the Brazilian could be on the move soon. He believes that Guimaraes will want to compete at the highest level and that the opportunity to join elite European clubs will be hard to pass up.
However, the German explained that the player is quite settled at Newcastle and would not be surprised if he decided to stay for a season or two.
A player of his quality will want to win major trophies regularly. Newcastle have an ambitious project, but they are not quite at that level yet.
Hamann on Bruno Guimaraes
Hamann said (h/t Chronicle Live): “Without a question, the best players want to play in the Champions League. Money is important too but it’s not the deciding factor. He will be getting paid well up in the North East.
“But the Champions League is the trophy along with the World Cup that all players want to win. If you’re not in the Champions League, you can’t win it, and every single Champions League club in England would be interested in Bruno Guimaraes if he decides that he can see himself elsewhere. The two Spanish giants would be interested too.
“I think Bruno can pretty much pick his club depending on how much Newcastle would want for him but he seems to be very settled in the North East.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if he plays at least one more season or even a couple more seasons at Newcastle even if they don’t get into the Champions League.”
Bruno Guimaraes in action for Newcastle. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Newcastle are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and losing their best midfielder would be a huge blow. It will be interesting to see if they can convince the player to stay at the club for the foreseeable future.
Tottenham’s defensive linchpin Cristian Romero is ‘going to leave’ the club in the upcoming June transfer window, according to Argentinian journalist and reliable South American insider Gaston Edul.
Taking to X, Edul revealed that the 27-year-old World Cup winner has already attracted concrete interest from La Liga giants and at least one other major European league.
“Cristian Cuti Romero has interest from La Liga in Spain and another league as well. He had already had interest in the previous transfer window and they came very close to making a formal offer. He is going to leave Tottenham in the next June transfer window.”
Cristian Cuti Romero tiene sondeos de de La Liga de España y otra liga más. Ya los había tenido en el mercado de pases anterior y estuvieron a un paso de la oferta formal. Va a salir de Tottenham en el próximo mercado de junio. pic.twitter.com/OWrjDpQgf5
Cristian Romero blasts ‘disgraceful’ Tottenham after deadline day
The news of a summer exit comes amidst a period of high tension between the player and the club.
Tottenham came back from two goals down to draw 2-2 against Manchester City on Sunday, despite playing with a depleted Spurs side struggling with an injury crisis.
With only 11 senior players fit for the fixture, Romero’s public outburst suggests a deep-seated frustration with the club’s current direction under Thomas Frank.
Real Madrid want to sign Romero
This isn’t the first time Romero has voiced his discontent. He has voiced his frustration towards the Tottenham hierarchy in the past as well for their perceived lack of accountability and ambition.
The latest comments have further fuelled talks of an exit. Real Madrid have had a long standing interest in the World Cup winner and as per a recent report, Madrid are prepared with a mega offer for Romero.
(Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Micky van de Ven also linked with Liverpool
To make matters worse for the North London side, Romero’s partner in central defense, Micky van de Ven, is also a target for rivals.
Losing both starting center-backs in a single window would represent a catastrophic blow for Tottenham as they look to navigate an increasingly turbulent 2026 campaign.
Leeds United crashed to a comprehensive defeat against Arsenal in the Premier League, and manager Daniel Farke has criticised Karl Darlow for his poor goalkeeping.
Arsenal scored their second goal of the game when Darlow put the ball into his own net from Noni Madueke’s corner.
Farke claimed after the game that his team should have defended set pieces better and that there was no need to concede an own goal in a game already difficult for the team.
Farke on Karl Darlow error
He said (h/t Leeds Press): “Wouldn’t praise (Arsenal) too much for this goal, for their set-piece routine, I think we should defend this situation better, not even one Arsenal player was close.
“Overall, I would have wished to reduce their number of set-pieces in the first half, that would have made our life easier, but in this situation, I think there’s no need to score an own goal.”
Karl Darlow did not have a great time vs Arsenal. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
The goalkeeping situation has been a problem for Leeds United. They signed Lucas Perri during the summer transfer window, but the Brazilian has been unconvincing. Darlow has been given an opportunity to establish himself as the first-choice goalkeeper at the club, but he has shown that he is not a Premier League-level goalkeeper.
It will be interesting to see if Leeds United can get through the season with their current options and secure Premier League safety. It will be their top priority to improve the goalkeeping department in the summer. They need to bring in someone who can dominate the box and add more stability at the back.
It remains to be seen whether Perri and Darlow can raise their performance levels for the coming weeks and help their team secure safety in the top flight. Leeds are fighting for survival, and they simply cannot afford silly mistakes from their goalkeepers.
The individual who threw a firework that hit goalkeeper Emil Audero during the Serie A match between Cremonese and Inter on Sunday evening has been identified as a 19-year-old Nerazzurri supporter, who has now been arrested.
Inter fan arrested after Audero firework incident
Inter’s 2-0 win over Cremonese this weekend was temporarily brought to a halt when a firework was thrown onto the pitch from the section of the ground housing the travelling Nerazzurri supporters.
Now, according to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, the individual responsible for throwing the firework onto the pitch has been identified and arrested, all within 48 hours of the incident taking place.
The individual responsible is a 19-year-old Inter supporter, who is understood to be involved with the club’s ultras.
The teenager was not, however, the person who reportedly lost three fingers in a separate firework-related incident during the Cremonese-Inter match.
Reports in Italy claim that Juventus star Kenan Yildiz is all set to sign a new and improved long-term contract extension with the Old Lady, which will see him tied to the club until the summer of 2030.
Yildiz’s new Juventus contract described as ‘imminent’
Yildiz is already under contract until the summer of 2029, but the Bianconeri are hoping to reward him with an increased salary that reflects his star status within the squad.
Currently, he earns a reported €1.7m per season in wages, which doesn’t even place him in the top 15 highest paid players in the squad.
PISA, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC looks on during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Juventus FC at Arena Garibaldi on December 27, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Given that there has been plenty of interest in Yildiz since he burst onto the scene in 2023, Juventus are keen to hand him a new and improved contract in the hope that he stays on at the Allianz Stadium long into the future.
There have been suggestions that Yildiz will become one of, if not the highest paid player in the squad, assuming that Dusan Vlahovis is moved on in the summer. Recent updates claim that Yildiz will be given an annual salary in the region of €6m.
Kenan Yildiz plays for Juventus away to Bodo/Glimt (@juventusfc)
Now, according to reports from Romeo Agresti and Ilbianconero.com, the relevant parties are now discussing the final details of Yildiz’s new contract, and the signing now appears to be ‘imminent’.
Tuesday’s report claims that the deal could be wrapped up later on this week.
Reports in Italy claim that three different medical experts advised Milan against signing Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta on the final day of the January transfer window.
Why did Milan’s deadline day deal for Mateta fall through?
Among the biggest stories on deadline day was Milan’s attempted signing of Mateta, who has scored 10 goals from 34 appearances across all competitions for Crystal Palace this term.
The Rossoneri agreed a fee with Crystal Palace, understood to be in the region of €35m, and the South London club gave the green light for the Frenchman to have his medical over the weekend.
BECKENHAM, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Jean-Philippe Matteta laughs during a Crystal Palace FC training session at Crystal Palace FC Training Ground on November 05, 2025 in Beckenham, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Palace have also brought in a replacement for Mateta in Jorgen Strand Larsen, who arrived in a deal worth around €50m from fellow Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers.
However, Mateta’s move to Milan eventually fell through on the final day of the January transfer window. This was due to the fact that there were concerns surrounding the striker’s knee and fears that he would need surgery and then several months of recovery to amend the issue.
According to Tuesday’s reports, Milan and Crystal Palace were always aware of the fact that there was a possibility of the Mateta deal falling through as a result of his physical condition.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 07: Jean-Philippe Matetea of Crystal Palace reacts during the Premier League match between Fulham and Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage on December 07, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Crystal Palace were reportedly fully compliant with Milan, sending detailed medical reports of Mateta’s condition. However, Palace were also aware that if the Mateta deal fell through on medical grounds, he would be unlikely to be able continue playing for them either, which is why they went ahead with the Strand Larsen transfer anyway.
According to reports in Italy, three different doctors recommended against Milan’s signing of Mateta, who now faces a spell of around three to four months on the sidelines after taking the decision to have surgery on his knee.
Manchester United are looking to improve the attacking unit with the signing of Aleksandar Stankovic from Belgian club Club Brugge.
The 20-year-old has impressed with his quality and leadership in Belgium, and Manchester United have set their sights on signing him. It remains to be seen whether they follow up on their interest with an official proposal at the end of the season. The 20-year-old is a tremendous talent with a bright future, and he could develop into a player for Manchester United.
Club Brugge would certainly welcome interest from multiple clubs, creating a bidding war for his signature. It would allow them to recoup a significant amount of money for the youngster.
Harry Kane of Bayern Munich has an attempted shot whilst under pressure from Aleksandar Stankovic of Club Brugge (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Manchester United need a quality replacement for Casemiro, and the Serbian could be ideal. He could anchor their midfield and help them control games better. Similarly, Tottenham need a player with his skill set. Joao Palhinha will leave the club at the end of the season, and they need to fill the void he leaves.
It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs can get the deal done. The 20-year-old will be attracted to the idea of moving to the Premier League. It would be a step up in his career, and he will look to prove himself at the highest level.
Whichever club manages to get the deal done, could have a future star on their hands.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sparked intense transfer speculation after refusing to dismiss the possibility of re-signing former Gunners star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Speaking during Monday’s pre-match press conference ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea, Arteta admitted the club is “exploring every option” to bolster a depleted midfield.
Arsenal could re-sign Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
The 32-year-old free agent, who has been training with Arsenal since November to maintain his fitness, is legally available to sign outside the transfer window.
When asked directly if the Oxlade-Chamberlain could be handed a short-term contract, Arteta offered a cryptic but open-ended response.
He said: “We need to do everything that we possibly can to see if we have a player that is available. If we don’t, we keep what we have.”
The Spanish international is set to undergo surgery on a fractured bone in his right foot sustained during the recent clash with Manchester United.
With the winter window now closed, the free-agent market, and specifically a player already integrated into the training environment, presents a rare lifeline.
Why Oxlade-Chamberlain could be a masterstroke signing for Arsenal
(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
While injuries have plagued Oxlade-Chamberlain since his departure from Liverpool and a brief stint at Besiktas, his return would offer Arsenal much-needed tactical flexibility.
Having played nearly 200 games for the club between 2011 and 2017, his familiarity with the “Arsenal way” is a significant advantage.
Club
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Arsenal
198
20
28
Liverpool
146
18
15
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain stats for Liverpool and Arsenal
Beyond sentiment, his experience in high-pressure title races and Champions League nights with Liverpool provides a experienced presence for a young squad in a crucial period.
With interest also brewing from Martin O’Neill’s Celtic, Arsenal may have to act quickly if they want to secure the midfielder as an emergency depth option for the season’s final four months.
Tottenham Hotspur are struggling with injuries in their attacking unit and have been advised to sign Raheem Sterling on a free transfer.
The England International recently terminated his contract with Chelsea, and Paul Merson believes that Tottenham should sign Sterling.
Spurs could use Raheem Sterling
Mohammed Kudus, James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski are currently on the sidelines with injuries. Tottenham need someone who can operate anywhere in the front three and create opportunities for his teammates in the final third. They will also need goals, and Sterling could be the dynamic attacker they are looking for.
Signing him on a free transfer could prove to be an interesting opportunity for the north London club. Unless his financial demands are significant, the move would make a lot of sense for Spurs.
Merson told Sky Sports: “They need players in. Thomas Frank and Tottenham have been unlucky with Solanke, Kulusevski and Maddison all out.
“I would bring Sterling in. I think it’s a no-brainer on a free transfer. I really do.
“You don’t want to start bringing every Tom, Dick and Harry in to try and stay up.
“They just need one or two players in and get their players fit.”
It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. Tottenham have been mediocre this season, and they need quality players to bounce back. They improved in midfield and defence in January, but failed to plug the gaps in the attacking unit.
Newcastle United and Aston Villa have submitted an offer to sign the Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen.
The talented young defender recently joined Real Madrid from Bournemouth, and the Spanish club has no intention of sanctioning his departure. They will not enter into negotiations with the English clubs, and it remains to be seen whether Newcastle or Aston Villa move on to other targets.
Newcastle and Villa want Dean Huijsen
They could use a quality central defender, and they were preparing to spend €40 million (£34.5m) on the Spaniard, as per Fichajes. However, the 20-year-old is a key part of Real Madrid’s plans, and it is no surprise that they are not prepared to consider any move.
Aston Villa are pushing for Champions League qualification, and they are likely to be an attractive destination for players if they finish in the top four. However, Huijsen is unlikely to leave Real Madrid for them. They will have to look at other options as they look to tighten up at the back.
Newcastle are also looking to put together a formidable team. They need quality long-term alternatives to players like Dan Burn and Fabian Schar. There is no doubt that the Spanish defender would have been ideal for them, but the move seems unrealistic.
Dean Huijsen warming up (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Real Madrid are looking to build a team for the future, and they will not want to lose one of the most talented young defenders in Europe and football right now.
Newcastle and Aston Villa have exciting projects, and they will be attractive destinations for quality players in the summer. It remains to be seen whether they can plug the gaps in their defence and launch a strong push for trophies next season.
Mohamed Salah has been linked with a move away from Liverpool in recent weeks.
The 33-year-old Egyptian international has not been at his best for the English club. Al-Ittihad are interested in signing the player at the end of the season.
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah during a training session (Photo by Tim Markland/PA Images via Getty Images)
Meanwhile, the player is valued at €30 million. He has a contract with Liverpool until 2027, and it remains to be seen whether the Saudi outfit is prepared to pay up. It seems unlikely that Liverpool will stand in his way at the end of the season. They will look to cash in on the player while he still retains some value. It remains to be seen whether they can replace him properly.
Salah has been a club legend, and he has helped Liverpool win several trophies. This is the right time for him to move on and take on a different challenge. Moving to a lower-intensity league could prolong his career. He would also earn a significant amount of money in Saudi Arabia, which could prove attractive in the twilight stages of his career.
Milan will have to do without Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic and Alexis Saelemaekers in their starting line-up for Tuesday evening’s Serie A clash away against Bologna at the Dall’Ara.
The Rossoblu only have one win from six matches in Serie A in 2026, and have slipped down to 10th place in the standings as a result.
The Rossoneri are coming in off the back of a 1-1 draw with Roma last time out in the league, and require three points if they are to continue applying the pressure on Inter at the top of the league table.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Koni De Winter of AC Milan celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on January 25, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Vincenzo Italiano is without suspended goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski on Tuesday night, and will also have to do without Jhon Lucumi through injury. Joao Mario arrived on loan with an option to buy from Juventus on Monday’s transfer deadline day, but the Portuguese stats on the bench on Tuesday evening.
Milan, meanwhile, have named a new combination of forwards, as Ruben Loftus-Cheek is set to support Christopher Nkunku in attack this evening. That means no Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao or Niclas Fullkrug in tonight’s starting line-up.
Alexis Saelemaekers has also been ruled out and is replaced by summer signing Zachary Athekame at right wing-back. Massimiliano Allegri is able to call upon his preferred midfield trio of Youssouf Fofana, Luka Modric and Adrien Rabiot, though.
Leao and Fullkrug have been named among the substitutes, but Pulisic and Saelemaekers miss out altogether.
Kick-off is due at 19.45 GMT.
Bologna vs. Milan: Confirmed line-ups
ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Massimiliano Allegri looks on during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Hellas Verona FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Ademola Lookman was the most expensive Serie A sale of the 2026 January transfer window, but Napoli could match the same fee if Lorenzo Lucca’s loan move to Nottingham Forest is made permanent. Here is a reminder of the most expensive departures of the winter transfer window.
The Serie A transfer window came to a close at 19.00 GMT on Monday, February 2. Lookman was the second most expensive deadline day transfer in the world with his €35m switch from Atalanta to Atletico Madrid (not including bonuses).
Lazio were among the most active Serie A sides during the January transfer window, and raised just shy of €60m through their sales of Taty Castellanos to West Ham and Matteo Guendouzi to Fenerbahce.
Official: West Ham United announce the signing of Taty Castellanos on a permanent deal from Lazio (picture via www.whufc.com)
Lorenzo Lucca is an interesting case, as he was technically bought outright by Napoli from Udinese, and then sent out on loan to Nottingham Forest with an option to buy. His two moves this month could turn out to be worth in excess of €60m.
Here are the most expensive permanent sales of the January transfer window, and a list of the most significant loans with option to buy.
Most expensive permanent sales of Serie A January transfer window
Atletico Madrid confirm Ademola Lookman’s signing from Serie A side Atalanta.
Ademola Lookman: Atalanta → Atletico Madrid €35m
Taty Castellanos: Lazio → West Ham €29m
Matteo Guendouzi: Lazio → Fenerbahce €28m
Lorenzo Lucca: Udinese → Napoli €26m
Tammy Abraham: Roma → Besiktas €15m
Notable loans with options to buy
Official: Lorenzo Lucca joins Nottingham Forest on loan with an option to buy from Napoli (picture: www.nottinghamforest.co.uk)
Lorenzo Lucca: Napoli → Nottingham Forest on loan with €35m option to buy
Noa Lang: Napoli → Galatasaray on loan with €28m option to buy
Douglas Luiz: Juventus → Aston Villa with €25m option to buy
Christos Mandas: Lazio → AFC Bournemouth on loan with €18.5m option to buy
Daniel Maldini: Atalanta → Lazio on loan with €15.5m option to buy
Marco Brescianini: Atalanta → Fiorentina on loan with €10m option to buy
Lorenzo Lucca, Giacomo Raspadori and Robinio Vaz were among the most expensive Serie A signings during the 2026 January transfer window, which saw the Italian top-flight sides spend a total of €243.49m over the last 31 days.
The January transfer deadline struck at 19.00 GMT on Monday evening. Milan failed to get a deal over the line for Jean-Philippe Mateta, but there was still plenty of action on the final day of the window, including Juventus’s signing of Emil Holm from Bologna, Joao Mario moving in the opposite direction, and Roma’s acquisition of Bryan Zaragoza from Bayern Munich.
The full month brought several new additions, including new Roma striker Donyell Malen, Napoli’s acquisition of Giovane and the return of Giacomo Raspadori from Atletico Madrid.
BERGAMO, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Giacomo Raspdori of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team’s third goal with teammate Nikola Krstovic of Atalanta during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Parma Calcio 1913 at Gewiss Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Technically, Lorenzo Lucca, who left Napoli to join Nottingham Forest in January, was the most expensive Serie A signing this month. That is because the Italy international was still on loan with an option to buy at Napoli, and the Partenopei had to exercise that option to buy clause from Udinese before sending him to the Premier League.
Coming in at joint-second are Giacomo Raspadori, who joined Atalanta after six months in LaLiga with Atletico Madrid, and Robinio Vaz, who joined Roma in a permanent deal from Olympique de Marseille.
Below are the top 10 most expensive permanent signings from the 2026 January transfer window in Serie A.
Top 10 most expensive Serie A signings in January 2026
New signing Robinio Vaz poses with the Roma jersey (asroma.it)
1. Lorenzo Lucca: Udinese → Napoli €26m*
=2. Giacomo Raspadori: Atletico Madrid → Atalanta €22m
=2. Robinio Vaz: Olympique de Marseille → Roma €22m
4. Kenneth Taylor: Ajax → Lazio €16.85m
5. Petar Ratkov: RB Salzburg → Lazio €13m
6. Adrian Lahdo: Hammarby → Como: €11.94m
7. Darryl Bakola: Olympique de Marseille → Sassuolo €10m
8. Ismael Kone: Olympique de Marseille → Sassuolo €10m*
According to a prominent source on X, the representatives for Liverpool center-back Ibrahima Konate are scheduled to hold crunch talks with club officials this Friday.
The meeting comes at a critical juncture for the Reds, as the French international enters the final months of a contract that has become a source of mounting anxiety at Anfield.
Konate’s contract stand-off: Liverpool running out of time
(Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
The 26-year-old defender is currently playing on the same terms he signed upon arriving from RB Leipzig in 2021.
Reports suggest Konate previously rejected an offer that would have tied him to the club until 2030, citing frustrations over a performance-heavy salary structure.
With his deal set to expire in June 2026, Konate is already legally permitted to negotiate pre-contract agreements with overseas clubs.
Liverpool cannot afford to repeat Trent Alexander-Arnold mistake
The urgency surrounding Friday’s meeting is fueled by the ghost of last summer.
Liverpool fans are still reeling from the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who left for Real Madrid on a cut-price £10m deal just before his contract expired.
Losing a second world-class asset in successive years for free would be a significant blow to Sporting Director Richard Hughes’ reputation.
But there is a strong possibility that Konate could be on his way out and that would explain the club’s decision to go all in for another French centre-back.
Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero created controversy with his explosive social media post after the January window closed.
The South American defender seemed to criticise the lack of adequate signings, and he has now been slammed by Simon Jordan from talkSPORT.
Romero said: “Great effort from all my team-mates yesterday [against Manchester City], they were incredible. I wanted to be available to help them even though I wasn’t feeling well, especially since we only had 11 players available – unbelievable but true and disgraceful.
“We’ll keep showing up and taking responsibility to turn this around, working hard and staying together. All that’s left is to thank all of you for being there and for always supporting us, the fans.”
It is no secret that Tottenham needed more additions during the January window. They signed Conor Gallagher and Souza this winter, but they still need more depth in the attacking unit. They are without several key attackers and have struggled to create opportunities and regularly find the back of the net. The decision not to sign a quality attacker and to let Brennan Johnson leave the club could prove costly.
It is hardly a surprise that top-quality players like Romero are disappointed. He will want to fight for major trophies every season, and Tottenham have simply not shown the ambition required to challenge at the highest level.
Meanwhile, Jordan believes Romero has been “uncontrollable” in his social media outbursts and should be cautioned by the north London club. He also added that he feels the 27-year-old “will leave Tottenham” at the end of the season. The defender also wanted to leave at the start of the season.
Tottenham Hotspur were looking to add to their attacking unit during the January transfer window and wanted to secure the services of Angelo Gabriel.
The former Chelsea winner has impressed in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr, and Tottenham made discreet enquiries to sign him in the final days of the window. However, they failed to get the deal done.
The Brazilian winger is highly rated and has a bright future ahead of him. The 21-year-old could have been a useful acquisition for Tottenham. They need to improve in the final third, and signing the Brazilian would have been a boost.
Tottenham ended up signing Souza and Conor Gallagher during the January window, but they failed to plug the gaps in the attacking unit. It will be interesting to see whether that proves costly in the second half of the season. Tottenham are dealing with multiple injury problems, and key attackers like Mohammed Kudus, James Madison, and Dejan Kulusevski are currently sidelined.
According to a report from TeamTalk, Tottenham did not make an official offer to sign Angelo Gabriel, despite gathering information on his availability and potential fee.
The young attacker has six goals and 16 assists to his name for the Saudi Arabian club, and there is no doubt that he would have been a useful option for them in the attack. The 21-year-old is quite young and has a bright future; with the right guidance, he could have developed into a key player for Tottenham.
It has been a disappointing season for the north London club, and it remains to be seen whether they can turn things around in the coming months.
It has been on the cards for a while, but Ademola Lookman’s departure from Bergamo is a major blow. Giancarlo Rinaldi looks back on how he wrote his way into the club’s history.
There may have been more typical stories of how a player has had their career transformed at Atalanta, but surely not many. The Bergamaschi – especially during Gian Piero Gasperini’s reign – developed a happy knack of taking footballers that had failed to truly ignite elsewhere and turning them into pyrotechnic success stories. Few have burned brighter than Ademola Lookman.
The London-born Nigerian international first emerged with Charlton nearly a decade ago and went through a string of moves that never really worked out. At Everton, RB Leipzig, Fulham and Leicester, there were always sparks of brilliance but never with the consistency that any of those clubs had hoped for. It was not until 2022 – with his 25th birthday just a few months away – that he would finally find the perfect place to let his talents shine.
Lookman’s Atalanta move
BERGAMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 22: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Atalanta BC and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio di Bergamo on October 22, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
La Dea, we know, has a habit of performing this magic – particularly under their silver-haired coach now departed for Roma. Gasperini’s brilliance is both in the overall teamplay that his sides produce but also in elevating players who have perhaps been underachievers elsewhere. Nowhere was this more in evidence than with Lookman.
He quickly became a mainstay in the Atalanta attack and also a goal threat with much greater regularity than he ever found elsewhere. If the club became something of a cult hit in Europe, it owed much to his breathtaking displays. Defenders across Italy and the rest of the continent were left dizzy by his close control and thumping finishes. This was a devastating player at the peak of his powers.
His crowning glory, surely, was the Europa League final against a Bayer Leverkusen side which had previously looked invincible. Yes, it was a masterpiece of tactics from Gasperini and an epic team performance too, but at the heart of everything good was Lookman. Everything he touched turned into a goalscoring chance, and the hat-trick he eventually completed cemented his place in the club’s hall of fame. It is unlikely to be a more impressive display for the Bergamo club in Europe ever again.
Of course, that turned heads – perhaps even the player himself got a little distracted. Certainly, things did not run quite as smoothly after that, and there were constant rumours that he was on the way out. Still, when he was on song, he remained a key part of the Atalanta attack. That he finished with more than 50 goals in less than 140 games without being an out-and-out striker tells you all you need to know. Add to that nearly 30 assists, and you get some idea of how significant a contributor he was to the club. The fact that these totals eclipse the entirety of the rest of his career also underlines how important the Lombardy side was to him.
BERGAMO, ITALY – JANUARY 21: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between Atalanta BC and SK Sturm Graz at Stadio di Bergamo on January 21, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
All good things, of course, must come to an end and the conclusion of the Gasperini era in the summer was always likely to be followed by a few departures. It is also in the nature of things at the New Balance Arena – or whatever their ground is called now – that their best talents will move on. Lookman will now test his talents in La Liga with Atletico Madrid.
That looks like a mouthwatering prospect, but he should be warned that moving away from the city, famously divided into its higher and lower sections, can also have its ups and downs. Although they have always been about the team more than any individual, he was undoubtedly a star of their European and Serie A exploits. He is just one star among many at the Spanish club.
Atalanta’s Nigerian forward #11 Ademola Lookman attends a training session on the eve of the UEFA Super Cup football match Real Madrid v Atalanta Bergamo in Warsaw, Poland, on August 13, 2024. The 2024 UEFA Super Cup final football match between Real Madrid and Atalanta will be held on August 14, 2024 at the National Stadium in Warsaw. (Photo by Sergei GAPON / AFP) (Photo by SERGEI GAPON/AFP via Getty Images)
Still, he has all the skills in the world to thrive in his new surroundings. After a more lengthy apprenticeship than most, he emerged as a huge talent in Italy and more than earned his African Player of the Year honour in 2024. There is every chance that more honours will come his way with the Colchoneros.
Back in Bergamo, they will be entitled to feel the odd pang of nostalgia whenever they see him play. Raffaele Palladino is building a new era at the club, but he will find it hard to match up to the house that Gasperini built. And, in its later stages, Ademola Lookman was an integral part of that project. Their talented scouts will undoubtedly be scouring the planet in the hopes of unearthing another footballer who can contribute even half as much to their cause.
Liverpool have been handed a blow in their pursuit of the Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano.
The 27-year-old French defender has been linked with a move away from the German club in recent weeks. Liverpool were interested in securing his signature, but a CF Bayern Insider report claims the player has now decided to commit his long-term future to the German champions.
Bayern Munich offered the French defender a lucrative contract, but failed to secure an agreement with him. They ultimately decided to retract the offer, but the player has decided to stay at the club, and the two parties are set to complete the formalities.
Liverpool were hoping to sign him as a replacement for Ibrahima Konaté. The 26-year-old French International will be out of contract at the end of the season, and Liverpool have not been able to secure an agreement with him. They need to replace him properly, and the Bayern Munich star could have been ideal. He has been exceptional for the German club this season, and he is certainly good enough to play for the biggest club in the world.
It will be interesting to see if Liverpool moves on to another target now. They need to sign two quality central defenders, and they have already secured Jeremy Jacquet’s signature. Adding another quality central defender should be an absolute priority for them.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich will be delighted to have secured the long-term future of their star defender. He is an indispensable asset for them, and his departure would have been a huge blow.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool can convince Konate to stay at the club. If they manage to do that, it would certainly offset the blow of missing out on his compatriot.
The 30-year-old has shown his quality in Germany and has the physical and technical attributes to do well in the Premier League. Arsenal are looking to add more muscle and drive in the middle of the park, and the German international would be ideal for them. He has extensive experience and the quality to play for the biggest clubs in the world. He is at the peak of his powers, and this could be the right time for him to take on a new challenge as well.
He has won several major trophies throughout his career, and he knows what it takes to play for a big club and to regularly challenge for trophies. He has been a key player for club and country over the years.
Leon Goretzka warming up for Bayern Munich (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
The 30-year-old will be out of contract in the summer, and it remains to be seen whether Arsenal can get the deal done. Signing a player of his quality and experience on a free transfer would be a huge bargain.
Goretzka has been labelled as a player “highly respected” by his teammates. There is no doubt that he would be an excellent addition for Arsenal on and off the pitch. Arsenal need leaders like him in the squad if they want to compete at the highest level regularly.
Roma defender Gianluca Mancini underwent surgery to reduce a nasal bone fracture today and will play the next games wearing a protective mask.
Roma defender Mancini will be forced to wear a protective mask in the following matches after undergoing nose surgery on Tuesday.
Roma defender Mancini has nose surgery
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Gianluca Mancini of Roma waits for medical treatment during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
The Italy international suffered an injury during the first half of Monday’s 1-0 loss against Udinese, but remained on the pitch for the entire game.
Sky Sport Roma correspondent Angelo Mangiante reports on X social media that the defender underwent surgery today, Tuesday, February 3, to reduce the nasal bone fracture.
Mancini will be discharged in the coming hours and will be able to resume competitive activity wearing a protective mask.
Roma’s next Serie A games
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Gianluca Mancini of AS Roma controls the ball whilst under pressure from Noa Lang of Napoli during the Serie A match between AS Roma and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on November 30, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Mancini, 29, has scored one goal and provided one assist in 30 appearances across all competitions this season.
Roma’s next game is on Monday, February 9, at home against Cagliari.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Gianluca Mancini of Italy warms up prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The following Sunday, February 15, they’ll visit Napoli at the Stadio Maradona.
Former Italy international Alessandro Florenzi regrets not playing in the World Cup despite winning the Euros in 2021: ‘I failed to match expectations.’
Ex-Roma and Milan defender Florenzi spoke to Vivo Azzurro (via TMW) about his playing career, mostly focusing on his games with the Azzurri.
Florenzi: ‘Something magical happened’ at Euro 2020
Italy players celebrate after Bukayo Saka (C) of England failed to score from this penalty during the UEFA EURO 2020 final between Italy and England in London, Britain, 11 July 2021. Italy won the game in penalty shoot-out. EPA-EFE/John Sibley
“I won the Euros, but I never played at the World Cup and I hope I can experience it as a fan this year,” he said.
“We were not the best team [at Euro 2020], but something magical happened. There was joy, but also the utmost focus in the decisive moments. I think this was the mix that brought us to the victory.”
The late Gianluca Vialli was Italy’s delegation chief at the Euros and had built a solid bond with the entire team, especially Florenzi.
“I struggle to talk about Gianluca. Everyone knows how important he was to us,” Florenzi said.
“His speeches, his words, even his silences and how he faced the illness. He could only convey positivity to us.”
Florenzi was part of the Italy squad in 2018 and 2022, when the Azzurri failed to qualify for the World Cup.
They have a new chance later in March as they’ll face Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal.
If they progress to the final, they’ll face Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“These lads are defending an entire nation, and must be supported. They’ll have so much pressure on them, just like I had,” Florenzi concluded.
Alessandro Florenzi
“I failed to match expectations as I didn’t qualify for the World Cup twice. I hope with all my heart that they’ll go through these two rounds and bring us to the World Cup because they deserve it, just like the Italian fans.”
Florenzi is now a Sky Sport Italia pundit. He announced his retirement in the summer of 2025 after making 289 Serie A appearances. The ex-defender won the Scudetto with Milan in 2021-22.
Florenzi also played for PSG on loan in 2020-21.
He made his senior Italy debut in 2012 and scored two goals in 49 matches with La Nazionale.
Dusan Vlahovic has reportedly returned to the Juventus training centre to complete his injury recovery, but his future in Turin remains highly uncertain with Milan, Chelsea and Newcastle interested in securing his signature as a free agent.
Juventus star Vlahovic has returned to Turin to finish his recovery, according to Gazzetta.
Vlahovic returns to finalise Juventus recovery
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Juventus FC at Artemio Franchi on November 22, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The Serbia international underwent surgery in December and spent the following weeks in Belgrade, working with a personal fitness coach.
The ex-Fiorentina star is not expected to return to action until March.
He is still not training on the pitch, but he’ll work at Continassa alongside Juventus fitness coaches, aiming to regain full fitness for the last two months of the campaign.
Vlahovic’s contract expires at the end of the season, and talks between the two parties have been stalling for months.
Vlahovic is reportedly open to staying at Juventus, which, however, doesn’t mean he’ll accept cutting his €12m-a-year salary.
VILLARREAL, SPAIN – OCTOBER 01: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between Villarreal CF and Juventus at Estadio de la Ceramica on October 01, 2025 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
According to Calciomercato.com, Newcastle and Chelsea have recently sounded out his availability, but Milan remain interested as well.
The Rossoneri, however, are unlikely to match Vlahovic’s current salary as the Rossoneri’s highest earners are Rafael Leao and Mike Maignan, who get €7m per season.
BELGRADE, SERBIA – OCTOBER 11: Dusan Vlahovic of Serbia reacts after a missed chance during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Serbia and Albania at Gradski stadion Dubocica on October 11, 2025 in Belgrade, Serbia. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)
Inter fans won’t be allowed to travel to Reggio Emilia, Lecce and Florence for the Nerazzurri’s next three away games in Serie A.
Official: Inter fans banned for the next three away games
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
On Tuesday, the Italian Interior Minister announced (via Gazzetta) that Inter’s fans will be barred from the away sections for the team’s next three matches, with residents of Lombardy prohibited from purchasing tickets.
The ban is valid until March 23 and will leave the Nerazzurri without support from the away end against Sassuolo, Lecce and Fiorentina.
Inter will technically be the away team on March 8 against city rivals Milan, but the Nerazzurri supporters will be allowed at San Siro since there will be no fan travel outside the city of Milan for this match.
The decision came after Cremonese goalkeeper Audero was hurt by a firework thrown from the away end during Sunday’s game at Cremonese.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: General view outside the stadium prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on November 23, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The match was suspended for a few minutes, and the goalkeeper continued the game despite a small cut and burn mark on his leg. Italian media have reported that the Inter fan who threw the firework has been identified and lost three fingers when throwing a second flare soon after.
Inter could receive further sanctions at a sporting level as decisions from the FIGC Judge will be announced tomorrow. According to Calciomercato.com, punishment could include a fine and restrictions for Inter fans, even for home games.
Roma reshaped their attack in the winter transfer window, welcoming Donyell Malen, Robinio Vaz and Bryan Zaragoza, sending a clear signal to Evan Ferguson and Artem Dovbyk.
Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini finally welcomed new players in attack during the winter transfer window as the Giallorossi completed three major deals to add depth and quality up front.
Three new Roma January signings in attack
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Ardian Ismajli of Torino FC in action against Donyell Malen of AS Roma during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Malen joined Roma from Aston Villa on loan with an option to buy that becomes mandatory if the Giallorossi qualify for the Champions League or Europa League. Robinio Vaz moved to the Olimpico on a permanent deal from Olympique Marseille, while Zaragoza arrived on deadline day, on loan with an option to buy from Bayern Munich.
Malen has quickly become a starter under Gasp, starting three games from three in Serie A and scoring in his debut against Torino.
Dovbyk and Ferguson are currently injured, but Malen is expected to be Gasperini’s primary option as a centre-forward in the second part of the campaign.
This also means that Ferguson, who is on loan from Brighton, will likely return to the English club at the end of the campaign, especially because Roma have an option to buy for €40m.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma is injured during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on January 10, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The Republic of Ireland international has scored five goals in 22 appearances across all competitions, but missed two of the last three Serie A games with ankle problems.
Robinio Vaz is currently a backup option at the Olimpico, but his €25m transfer fee, combined with his young age, 18, suggests the Giallorossi see him as a potential starter in the coming years.
Zaragoza will add depth in the Giallorossi attack, replacing injury-prone Leon Bailey, who returned to Aston Villa in January after a troubled six-month loan spell in the capital in the first half of the campaign.
Inter President Giuseppe Marotta hopes the new San Siro will be ready in 2030 and insists Italian football must be ‘sustainable’ and look to young players like Chelsea and Arsenal.
Inter President Marotta spoke about the Nerazzurri’s plans for a new stadium during his last interview with DAZN.
Marotta opens up about Inter and Milan’s new stadium
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: A general view of the stadium ahead of the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We’ve finally opened a pathway that will lead us far away. It’s not easy to act in Italy, where bureaucracy is often an obstacle,” Marotta said via TMW.
“We’ve taken on this new path with enthusiasm, and we’ll have a new home. It was very hard to buy San Siro, but thanks to Ralph and Scaroni’s tenacity, we reached the target. It will be a modern stadium that will firstly match the need for safety and hospitality.”
Inter and Milan have officially acquired the area of San Siro, including the iconic Stadio Meazza.
The Milanese sides hope the new stadium will be ready two years before Euro 2032, which Italy will co-host with Turkey.
PARMA, ITALY – APRIL 05: Giuseppe Marotta Chairman of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma and FC Internazionale at Stadio Ennio Tardini on April 05, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“We want it to be ready in 2030, and I hope we’ll make it,” Marotta confirmed.
“I’m not saying it’s a dream, but the bureaucratic pathway is torturous. At the same time, I think Italy must be represented by Milan, and national politics must make sure the important games will be played in the new stadium.”
The new stadium will allow Nerazzurri and Rossoneri to close the financial gap with some of the wealthiest clubs in Europe.
“We earn €80m per season, same as Milan. Real Madrid and Barcelona reach between €250m and €300m,” Marotta noted.
“The Blancos’ target is to go beyond €500m. We can more than double matchday revenue, also with activities made during the week.”
Marotta was asked whether old infrastructures in Italy prevent the development of fresh talent such as Lamine Yamal in Spain.
“Surely yes. When we made an objective assessment of European stadiums, we didn’t talk about training centres, which we lack in Italy,” said the Inter president.
BARCELONA, SPAIN – DECEMBER 15: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona is presented with the Golden Boy 2024 award prior to the LaLiga match between FC Barcelona and CD Leganes at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on December 15, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
“We have old structures, but thanks to Oaktree’s foresight, and following our request, we have invested €100m in a new area. The structures play a key role in developing talent. If you play in a potato field, you won’t be inclined to accept suggestions from your coach.”
Are Inter looking at the examples of Chelsea and Arsenal in the recruitment of young players?
“The Blues have recently made changes; Arsenal had been doing it for some time,” concluded Marotta.
“At some point, the Gunners put their money into the stadium and not on the market, and it worked. Having this inclination towards young players is a concept of great sustainability, which all Italian clubs are forced to follow.”
Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini raged at journalists after a 1-0 loss against Udinese on Monday: ‘If we don’t qualify for the Champions League, the coach will be changed, and that’s the end of the story.’
Roma slipped out of the top four last night, facing a 1-0 away loss at Udinese.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Mile Svilar of Roma is beaten by Jurgen Ekkelenkamp’s strike for Udinese during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Gasperini held a post-match press conference with Italian reporters after his interview with Sky Sport, but lost his temper when asked about the many young players signed by Roma in January.
“You need to make up your mind. One of you asked me to talk about the Champions League, the other one about a U23 team,” Gasp said via TMW.
“You need to make up your mind, or you’ll always be unhappy, even about tonight’s performance. One always looks to the result. I’m very satisfied with the performance.
Gasp tells Roma: ‘Change coach’ without Champions League
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“Then, if we don’t qualify for the Champions League, the coach will be changed, and that’s the end of the story. Failed target, end of the story.”
Gasperini stressed that reporters should focus on the team’s performance and long-term development rather than only on results, and his suggestion that he’d be sacked at the end of the season if he fails to qualify for the Champions League should, at this point, be regarded merely as a provocation.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Gian Piero Gasperini, manager of AS Roma, looks on before kick off at the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
The reporter asked once more whether the Roma boss expected to sign more experienced players in the winter transfer window.
“I work with what I’m given,” the Roma boss concluded.
Liverpool are working on plans to replace struggling manager Arne Slot after a disappointing season.
Having spent a massive amount on new signings last summer, Slot has struggled to keep the club competitive at the top level.
Since October, Liverpool have struggled to keep up pace with Arsenal and Manchester City at the top of the Premier League standings.
Although their performances have been impressive in the Champions League, they have failed to have the same impact in the Premier League.
The signings of Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and others have so far not completely lived up to expectations, possibly without the exception of Hugo Ekitike.
Liverpool identify Alonso as managerial target
Although nothing is decided at the moment, according to Fichajes, the Reds are interested in appointing Spanish manager Xabi Alonso as the next leader of the club.
Alonso was recently sacked by Real Madrid and despite his tough spell in Spain, he is still highly rated for his impressive work with Bayer Leverkusen where he ended the dominance of Bayern Munich.
Guardiola’s future at the Etihad Stadium is uncertain and a report has claimed that he is on the shortlist of Man City to replace the legendary manager.
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has praised Alonso in the past, calling him ‘exceptional‘.
Alonso knows the club well, he knows the sentiments of the fans and the type of football they want to see at the club.
He would be the ideal replacement of Slot at the club and players at Anfield would respect him due to his past success at the club as a player.
Marcus Rashford’s future appears to be moving decisively away from Old Trafford, with the England forward reportedly having no plans to return to Manchester United once his loan spell at Barcelona comes to an end this summer.
According to The Mirror, the 28-year-old has already made his intentions clear, prioritising stability and clarity over a reunion with his boyhood club.
Rashford joined Barcelona on loan in search of a reset after a turbulent period at Man United, where form, confidence, and scrutiny combined to stall his momentum.
While his time in Spain has been closely monitored, the move has given Rashford a fresh environment and renewed sense of purpose, something he is keen to preserve as he enters a crucial stage of his career.
Barcelona option and World Cup timing
Barcelona hold an option to make Rashford’s move permanent for a reported €30 million, a figure that reflects both his pedigree and the challenges United faced in maximising his value.
Rashford is understood to be eager for his future to be resolved swiftly, with the 2026 World Cup looming large in his planning.
Regular football, tactical clarity, and a settled club situation are viewed as essential if he is to remain a key part of England’s long-term plans.
Sources suggest Rashford has already communicated to Barcelona his desire to stay at Camp Nou beyond the current season.
While financial considerations remain central to any permanent deal, particularly given Barcelona’s well-documented constraints, the player’s stance is clear, a return to Man United is not his preferred option.
Man United position and Michael Carrick’s influence
Marcus Rashford is on loan at Barcelona from Manchester United (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
At United, the door has not been fully closed from the club’s side.
Interim head coach Michael Carrick is believed to admire Rashford’s qualities and would attempt to convince the academy graduate to stay should he be appointed on a permanent basis.
Carrick’s relationship with Rashford and belief in his ability could yet have played a role in negotiations.
However, reports indicate Rashford is prepared to look elsewhere if Barcelona are unable to finalise an agreement.
Rather than returning to Old Trafford under uncertain circumstances, he would prefer to secure a fresh long-term project, whether in Spain or another major European league.
Former Milan and Juventus defender Mattia De Sciglio said he snubbed a move to Liverpool to move to Turin in 2017, but he felt ‘used’ by Vincenzo Montella at San Siro.
Former Italy international De Sciglio spoke about his career in an interview with Corriere della Sera.
A product of the Milan academy, De Sciglio has also played for Juventus and Empoli in Serie A and Lyon in the French Ligue 1.
The 33-year-old has collected 208 appearances in Serie A and 28 in the Champions League.
“I could have played for Inter as a kid,” De Sciglio said via Calciomercato.com.
“They had called me for a trial, but I was dropped because I was too short. Milan arrived shortly afterwards, and I went through the youth sector until my Champions League debut at 18.”
De Sciglio was a Milan first-team player in one of the darkest moments in recent history, but feels the way he was treated at San Siro was unfair.
Mattia De Sciglio
“Some of the fans and the media identified me as the guilty one in that situation, and they were all waiting for a minimum error to criticise me,” he said.
“My social media accounts were filled with insults and nasty comments, but I had always behaved well, so I didn’t understand.”
During a Milan home game against Empoli in April 2017, he realised he had to leave the Rossoneri.
DORTMUND, GERMANY – JUNE 18: Vincenzo Montella, Head Coach of Turkiye, gestures during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Turkiye and Georgia at Football Stadium Dortmund on June 18, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
“We were down two goals at minute 70, and Montella decided to replace me. I was angry. It’s a substitution I’ve never understood. It seemed just a way to use me to hide a difficult moment for the whole team,” De Sciglio said.
“As I was leaving, a boos erupted all around me. That day, I realised I could no longer go on like that; my story with Milan was over.”
De Sciglio snubbed Liverpool move for Juventus in 2017
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus battles for possession with Mattia De Sciglio of Empoli during the Serie A match between Juventus and Empoli at Allianz Stadium on February 02, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The following summer, De Sciglio joined Juventus from Milan.
“Liverpool also wanted me, but I picked Turin because Allegri was on the bench and the team was really strong,” he said.
“Finding myself in a dressing room of champions and playing European games as a protagonist was a nice revenge after a difficult period.”
De Sciglio is currently without a club as Juventus didn’t extend his contract when he returned from a loan spell at Empoli at the end of 2024-25.
New Roma signing Bryan Zaragoza says the opportunity to join the Giallorossi came ‘from one day to another’ and can’t wait to debut at the Stadio Olimpico: ‘Lazio games don’t even come close.’
The Spanish winger, 24, had spent the first part of the campaign on loan at Celta Vigo.
Zaragoza’s first Roma interview
Bryan Zaragoza with Roma director Frederic Massara (asroma.com)
“It happened from one day to another. I was told Roma was an option, and I never had any doubt and said I wanted to come,” the Spaniard said in his first interview with Roma.
“I want to thank the club, the owners, and everyone for giving me this opportunity.
“I have high expectations; I want to be important in this club and win titles. I hope we can return to the Champions League.”
Scorer of two goals in 26 appearances across all competitions in the first half of 2025-26, Zaragoza can’t wait to play under Gian Piero Gasperini.
“I know Gasperini because I really liked how his team played last season. It seemed very attractive to me. They played the ball really well, and I can’t wait to start this journey and see what it can give me to learn with him,” he said.
“I’ve always liked to dribble, like street football. It’s one of my qualities.
“I don’t know much about Rome; I’ve never been there before, but people say great things about the city. I come with a great desire to know everything and stay a long time here.”
Zaragoza has already met Roma star Paulo Dybala at Trigoria.
“I met him as soon as I arrived at the training centre and spoke to him. He’s a great player, and I like the idea of sharing the dressing room with him,” he said.
Zaragoza has picked the No.97.
“In Spain and Germany, I couldn’t pick numbers higher than 25,” he explained.
“Here, I was attracted by the idea of getting a higher number. I liked the 97, and my family and I decided it was what we wanted to pick.
VIGO, SPAIN – OCTOBER 23: Bryan Zaragoza of RC Celta de Vigo warms up prior to the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Real Club Celta and OGC Nice at Estadio Abanca Balaidos on October 23, 2025 in Vigo, Spain. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
“I’ve played in the Liga and Bundesliga. I had not thought about coming to Serie A; it happened suddenly. I can’t wait to start and learn this league with great players and clubs. It’s a difficult league, but I’ll try to be successful.”
Zaragoza made his senior Spain debut in 2023 and has one goal in three appearances under his belt. Naturally, he hopes that his time in Roma will help him get a spot in the squad for the 2026 World Cup.
“Yes, last season I was quite involved, regardless of my injury,” he said.
“This season it hasn’t happened yet, but I hope the chance will come soon. To be at the World Cup is one of my targets.”
Zaragoza has already seen the Olimpico when he was at Bayern Munich, as he was an unused substitute in a Champions League match in 2024.
“It doesn’t even come close because that day I played against Lazio, but I think playing against Roma or Lazio doesn’t feel the same,” he admitted.
“I want to see the Olimpico full of Roma fans and feel their passion. I can’t wait to make my debut in this stadium, and my biggest desire is to debut with a win. If I even score, I’d be perfect.”
Juventus held talks with several strikers during the winter transfer window, but eventually failed to sign a new centre-forward for Luciano Spalletti. From Jean-Philippe Mateta to Randal Kolo Muani, here’s why the Bianconeri failed to sign a new No.9 last month.
Just a few days ago, following a 3-0 win over Napoli in Serie A, Spalletti openly admitted his Juventus side needed a new centre-forward with different skill sets from Jonathan David and Lois Openda.
David has become increasingly reliable for the Serie A giants, scoring four goals and providing two assists in the opening six Serie A games of 2026. Yet, Spalletti was looking for a new centre-forward who would hold the ball up front and create space for wingers and attacking midfielders.
Who did Juventus sign in the January transfer window?
Emil Holm poses with the Juventus shirt alongside Marco Ottolini (left) and Damien Comolli (right) – via juventus.com.
The Juventus boss praised Napoli centre-forward Rasmus Hojlund after the Bianconeri’s win over the Partenopei at the end of January, suggesting his team needed a striker with similar characteristics.
Juventus tried to match their coach’s demands, but eventually ended up signing winger Jeremie Boga and right-back Emil Holm, not a new centre-forward.
Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta was Juventus’ first target in the January transfer window, but the Bianconeri failed to reach an agreement over the transfer package with the Premier League side.
Juventus tried to sign Mateta on loan with an option to buy that could become mandatory under certain conditions.
Why Juventus didn’t sign a new centre-forward in January
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 07: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace warms up prior to the Premier League match between Fulham and Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage on December 07, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Fenerbahce’s Youssef En-Nesyri was Juventus’ second target last month, but while the Bianconeri had reached an agreement with the Turkish club, they failed to convince the Morocco international, who was not open to leaving his club on a temporary transfer.
Talks with Galatasaray for Mauro Icardi were never at an advanced stage, while Kolo Muani was the last striker in talks with the Bianconeri.
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – JANUARY 28: Randal Kolo Muani of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Tottenham Hotspur at Frankfurt Stadion on January 28, 2026 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Juventus were interested in bringing him back to Turin six months after his return to PSG. Currently on loan at Tottenham, Spurs decided against cutting the striker’s loan spell short, ending Juventus’ hopes of signing a new centre-forward for the second part of the campaign.
David and Openda are currently the only central strikers available for the Old Lady, but the injured Dusan Vlahovic is expected to return to action in a month before leaving the Allianz Stadium at the end of his contract in June.
Exams undergone by Giovanni Di Lorenzo have ruled out a serious knee injury, and with his recovery time expected to be between 40 and 60 days, Italy and Gennaro Gattuso hope the versatile defender will be available for the World Cup play-off next month.
Napoli defender Di Lorenzo could be available for Italy’s World Cup play-off next month.
Di Lorenzo injury update
The Azzurri defender was subbed off during Napoli’s last Serie A match against Fiorentina.
This means Di Lorenzo will likely remain on the sidelines for 40 to 60 days as he won’t undergo surgery, but only follow a conservative treatment.
Will Di Lorenzo be available for Italy’s World Cup play-off?
LISBON, PORTUGAL – DECEMBER 10: Giovanni Di Lorenzo during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between SL Benfica and SSC Napoli at Estadio da Luz on December 10, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
According to Gazzetta, Italy coach Gattuso hopes the experienced defender will recover in time for the World Cup play-off scheduled for the end of March.
Italy will host Northern Ireland in the semifinal on March 26, and if they progress, they will then visit Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Final.
Sandro Tonali is once again emerging as a major talking point ahead of the summer transfer window, with several of the Premier League’s biggest clubs reportedly keeping a close watch on the Newcastle United midfielder’s situation.
According to The Sun, Arsenal, Manchester City, and Chelsea have all registered an interest in the Italy international, showing his growing reputation at the top level.
Tonali, 25, has steadily reasserted his value at Newcastle United, becoming a pillar of their midfield along with Bruno Guimaraes.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, particularly by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who is believed to be a long-time admirer.
Arsenal admire Newcastle midfielder Tonali
Reports suggest Arteta views Tonali as an ideal partner for Declan Rice, with the pair potentially forming a balanced and dynamic midfield core capable of competing at the highest level.
Arsenal were even alerted to the possibility of a move on Deadline Day, though the enquiry failed to develop into anything concrete.
Pep Guardiola is understood to be a strong admirer of Tonali’s game intelligence and positional discipline and along with his teammate Tino Livramento, the Spanish manager is keen on bringing the Newcastle duo to the Etihad Stadium.
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle in action vs Man United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Chelsea, meanwhile, are taking a more cautious approach. The Stamford Bridge club are monitoring Tonali’s situation as part of their midfield review but have yet to make any decisive moves.
Despite the mounting interest, Newcastle remain relaxed. Tonali is viewed as a central figure in the club’s long-term project, and there is no desire to part with him unless an extraordinary offer is presented.
A report from Fichajes has claimed that the Magpies have set an asking price of €80 million for the Italian midfielder.
Football pundit Paul Scholes has described the Newcastle United midfielder as a “brilliant” player.
Real Madrid are once again casting a close eye over the Premier League’s emerging talent pool, with reports from Fichajes claiming the Spanish giants are closely monitoring Myles Lewis‑Skelly, one of the most highly rated young prospects currently on Arsenal’s books.
At just 19 years of age, Lewis-Skelly has already established himself as a special young talent within Arsenal’s academy system and first-team environment.
Under the guidance of club president Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid have doubled down on a strategy focused on securing top young players before they fully establish themselves on the world stage.
This approach has already delivered significant success, with players such as Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga becoming central figures at the Bernabéu.
Lewis-Skelly is viewed in a similar bracket, a technically refined, tactically flexible player who could be moulded into Madrid’s next generation.
Madrid are particularly attentive to situations where young talents may feel blocked or uncertain about their immediate pathway.
That situation is not unusual for young players at title-challenging clubs, but it is precisely the kind of scenario Real Madrid have historically monitored closely.
From Arsenal’s perspective, there is little appetite to entertain any discussion over Lewis-Skelly’s future. Club sources maintain he is seen as a long-term asset and a player capable of playing a major role in the years ahead.
Lazio were the biggest spenders in Serie A during the winter transfer window, while Juventus were the only club not to spend a penny as they secured Jeremie Boga and Emil Holm on free loan deals.
The winter transfer window for Serie A clubs ended on Monday, February 2, so it’s time to review the activity of every team in Italy’s top flight, including how much they spent over the last month.
Serie A: Lazio the biggest spenders in 2026 winter transfer window
LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Kenneth Taylor of SS Lazio during the Serie A match between US Lecce and SS Lazio at Stadio Via del Mare on January 24, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Lazio had been imposed a transfer embargo during the summer transfer window, so it is not entirely surprising to see the Biancocelesti spend more than any other club in Italy during the January window.
Furthermore, Maurizio Sarri saw two regular starters, Matteo Guendouzi and Valentin Castellanos, leave the Olimpico last month, so the Bianconcelesti had to sign replacements in central midfield and attack.
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Niclas Fullkrug of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
As reported by Transfermarkt, Milan spent €8m to sign promising Verona midfielder Alphadjo Cissè, 19, who was then sent to Serie B side Catanzaro on loan.
The Rossoneri also signed Niclas Fullkrug from West Ham, on loan with an option to buy.
Ranking: Biggest Serie A spenders in the 2026 winter transfer window
Every winter, Italian clubs scramble to try to find the players who can make a mid-season difference. Giancarlo Rinaldi gives out the grades for their efforts this year.
Only a fool would try to assess the potential impact of acquisitions that have barely had a chance to play for their new employer,s but here we go again. It is worth remembering that it can sometimes be the players that you move on or keep who can be as important as the ones you bring in. With that in mind, here are the marks out of 10 for all 20 Serie A sides this winter window.
Atalanta 6/10 – In the end it probably boils down to whether you think Giacomo Raspadori plus a handsome profit is worth losing Ademola Lookman for. The ex-Napoli man looks sharp already while the departures of Daniel Maldini and Marco Brescianini may reduce the depth of the squad but should not cause major damage.
Bologna 5.5/10 – A bit of a bland market that looks unlikely to see an upturn in their midtable form. The effective swap of Emil Holm for Joao Mario with Juventus looks a balanced enough trade, while Simon Sohm will need to show an improvement on his Fiorentina form to convince that he was worth losing Giovanni Fabbian for.
GENOA, ITALY – AUGUST 31: João Mario of Juventus looks on during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Juventus FC at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on August 31, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Cagliari 6.5/10 – Sometimes it is not about who you buy or sell but who you keep and hanging on to a hot property like young Marco Palestra could be key to the Sardinians’ survival, which is looking more and more likely. The actual incomings and outgoings probably fall under the category of “time will tell” when it comes to their effectiveness.
Como 5/10 – On paper, at least, a little bit underwhelming for a side with such financial backing, but their eye for talent could well mean Swedish teenager Adrian Ladho is one to watch. Keeping hold of their best players – with Martin Baturina in particular attracting attention – was an achievement, but the club has sufficient wealth to say no to all but the biggest deals.
Cremonese 6/10 – None of their arrivals look like setting Serie A alight but they are all proven performers. Milan Djuric will give them a different option in attack while Youseff Maleh, Morten Thorsby and Sebastiano Luperto are well-known quantities who can surely ensure the work already done towards survival continues.
Fiorentina 5.5/10 – The best part of the Viola transfer market was probably getting rid of a number of the summer signings that did not work out including Simon Sohm, Edin Dzeko and Hans Nicolussi Caviglia. They have added width with Manor Solomon and Jack Harrison but there was no real big name to fire hopes of rocketing back up the table.
Genoa 7/10 – As a fully signed-up member of the Tommaso Baldanzi fan club, this mark is probably more in hope than expectation. Daniele De Rossi has already put the fight into the Grifone, but the talented Roma man could add that dash of quality which will make their survival fight a more stylish one than it has been so far.
Inter 5/10 – We have what we hold is an understandable approach from the Nerazzurri but not the kind of thing to get fans delighted. The purchase of Yanis Massolin is an exciting one but clearly one for the future as the young French midfielder will remain on loan at Modena, where he has shone in Serie B.
Emil Holm poses with the Juventus shirt alongside Marco Ottolini (left) and Damien Comolli (right) – via juventus.com.
Juventus 5/10 – There was plenty of smoke but not much substance to the Bianconeri’s transfer window work with the arrivals of Emil Holm and Jeremie Boga hardly the stuff to get pulses racing. Maybe it could be argued that a recent upturn in form shows they did not need to force the issue but it will still disappoint the fans.
Lazio 5.5/10 – The Biancocelesti have been busy after having their transfer ban lifted with Kenneth Taylor already looking like a smart signing. The losses of Matteo Guendouzi and Taty Castellanos leave gaps to be filled but the biggest story was probably Alessio Romagnoli’s switch to Al-Sadd falling through due to a document mix-up, which is a bit embarrassing.
Lecce 5.5/10 – They will have to hope that they have found a couple of gems in a signing basket, including Omri Gandelman, Oumar Ngom and Sadik Fofana. The good news is that they have managed that in the past, so a repeat is not out of the question. Walid Cheddira is more of a known quantity and gives them options up front.
Milan 5/10 – Another one of Italy’s bigs to be linked with plenty of players but, in the end, they only managed a couple of arrivals. Niclas Fullkrug gives a focal point to their attack while teenager Alphadjo Cissè is definitely interesting. But the collapse of a deal for Jean-Philippe Mateta felt pretty much typical of their efforts.
Giovane officially joins Napoli from Hellas Verona
Napoli 5/10 – Add their name to the list of top teams who will have left their fans feeling cheated this January. Lorenzo Lucca goes to England for a nice bundle of cash – at least potentially – while the problematic Noa Lang finds a new home. Young Verona forward Giovane and Alisson Santos from Sporting CP will at least enjoy a move up the table thanks to their transfers.
Parma 6.5/10 – It will be a battle to stay afloat but they have added some quality to their fight with Hans Nicolussi Caviglia likely to enjoy a better time than he did in Florence. Gabriel Strefezza adds a dash of unpredictability and excitement while the loss of Hernani and Mathias Lovik will hardly be felt much at all.
Pisa 4.5/10 – They had to roll the dice and they definitely have but what number will come up remains to be seen. Having got rid of Alberto Gilardino as coach, they have at least got a goal already from new man Rafiu Durosinmi. Samuel Iling-Junior knows Serie A well enough but seems unlikely to produce enough to drag them to safety.
Roma 7.5/10 – Donyell Malen may be the signing who has made the most immediate impact this winter with some eye-catching moments already. Robinio Vaz is one of the biggest investments of the window and certainly does not seem to lack character. Tommaso Baldanzi leaves having found little space while Leon Bailey was dogged by injury in his short spell in the capital.
Donyell Malen joins Roma from Aston Villa (via asroma.com).
Sassuolo 5.5/10 – Whatever the question was, can the answer possibly have been M’Bala Nzola? The Angolan was far from thrilling at Pisa but maybe he can thrive in surroundings where the pressure of potential relegation is a little bit less intense. Their other new faces are intriguing but not necessarily of immediate use.
Torino 6/10 – A decent window that will surely help the Granata to enjoy another season of survival – if not a lot more. Kristjan Asllani and Cyril Ngonge made little impression between them so it will be up to Matteo Prati and Luca Marianucci to surpass them which, in truth, should really not be too hard.
Udinese 6/10 – The revolving door at the Stadio Friuli is rarely still and there were more heading out than in this winter. Branimir Mlacic and Juan Arizala definitely fall into the players with potential category and will look to make their mark while Iker Bravo and Sandi Lovric leave due to a lack of playing time. Saba Goglichidze ensures another window sees a move between the club and Watford.
Verona 5/10 – Their coach is gone but for a club with a need of a jolt, was this transfer session sufficient? It will be exciting to see another Scot give Serie A a go in the shape of Hibs’ record sale Kieron Bowie but he will surely have his work cut out to turn things around. Sandi Lovric should do a job while Pol Lirola at least knows Italy even if he has never exactly impressed.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT) at the Stadio Dall’Ara in Bologna. It’s the final game of Serie A, Round 23, which began last Friday with Lazio’s 3-2 win over Genoa.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Hellas Verona FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Rossoblu are without the suspended Lukasz Skorupski and the injured Jhon Lucumì and Lorenzo De Silvestri. New signing Joao Mario is available and expected to start on the bench.
Milan have travelled to Bologna without Santiago Gimenez, Alexis Saelemekers and Pulisic. Rafael Leao is not fully fit and will start on the bench, according to several Italian sources, including Sky Sport Italia and Gazzetta dello Sport.
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 15: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan celebrates with his team-mate Adrien Rabiot after scoring their team’s first goal1 from the penalty spot during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AC Milan at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Zachary Athekame will start as a right midfielder for Milan and Ruben Loftus-Cheek will play as an attacking midfielder behind the sole striker, Christopher Nkunku.
Bologna vs. Milan – where to watch on TV
The Stadio Dall’Ara clash will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 and DAZN in the UK and Ireland, as well as on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.
Speculation surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo is beginning to gather momentum once again, with interest from both Europe and Major League Soccer reportedly intensifying ahead of the next transfer window.
According to TEAMtalk, the 40-year-old forward’s situation at Al Nassr has sparked renewed debate over what could be the final major chapter of his illustrious career.
Ronaldo was notably absent from Al Nassr’s recent 1-0 Saudi Pro League victory over Al Riyadh, a decision that quickly attracted attention.
Sources cited by ESPN suggest the Portuguese icon has grown increasingly frustrated with how the league handled Karim Benzema’s high-profile move to Al Hilal, a transfer that has reportedly left Ronaldo feeling sidelined within the broader Saudi project.
Man United and MLS interested reignited
Ronaldo’s unease has inevitably triggered fresh interest abroad. Clubs across Europe are said to be closely monitoring his situation, with some reportedly willing to adapt their sporting plans to accommodate a player whose commercial and competitive impact remains significant, even at this stage of his career.
While few teams can realistically build around him tactically for the long term, his short-term influence, both on and off the pitch, continues to hold strong appeal.
In England, Manchester Evening News has reignited talk of a sensational return to Man United.
Although such a move would be complex and emotionally charged given his recent Old Trafford exit, the link shows how Ronaldo’s name still commands attention whenever uncertainty surrounds his future.
Across the Atlantic, MLS clubs are also believed to be exploring the feasibility of a move.
Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Despite turning 40, Ronaldo continues to defy conventional expectations. His goal output in Saudi Arabia has remained strong, and his professionalism and physical conditioning are frequently cited as evidence that he can still contribute at a high level.
Man United may not consider a move for him since they are now focusing on younger players who can contribute to the team for years to come.
The Brazilian midfielder has been brilliant for the Red Devils this season.
Under new manager Michael Carrick, Casemiro has found his form once again and in the last three matches, his contribution has been important.
Man United will have to look for Casemiro’s replacement
The midfielder scored and assisted a goal in the 3-2 win against Fulham. While United are happy with him, they know he is leaving and they are currently working behind the scenes to identify his replacement.
Nottingham Forest midfielder Anderson has been heavily linked with a move to United with Manchester City also expected to be a part of the race to sign him.
However, Merson has raised questions about Anderson and his ability to control the midfield.
Speaking on Sky Sports News, he said, as reported by United In Focus:
“I’m not sure, I like Elliot Anderson, but I’m not wow-factored over him.
“I like Elliot Anderson, but they’re fourth bottom of the league, fifth bottom of the league, Forest, so they’re not dominating all midfields, are they?
“And if you’re a midfield player, that’s where the engine is. Do you know what I mean? I don’t see him running the show in midfield at Nottingham Forest, and we’re talking about Man Utd.”
Arsenal’s transfer strategy has been forced into an unexpected turn after an injury to one of their midfielders.
The Gunners were left scrambling for cover on Deadline Day after Mikel Merino was ruled out for the remainder of the campaign, prompting internal discussions over whether to move aggressively in the market or wait until the summer.
Ultimately, Arsenal opted for restraint. Having already committed significant resources in the previous transfer window, the club were reluctant to sanction another major outlay.
Arsenal considered a move for Tonali in the winter window
Reports surfaced suggesting Arsenal had made enquiries into Tonali’s availability late in the window, fuelling excitement among supporters eager for an elite midfield addition.
However, those claims were swiftly played down. Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, dismissed the idea entirely in an interview with Sky Sports, insisting there were no discussions with Arsenal and no intention from Newcastle to entertain a January exit.
“We never had any conversation with Arsenal. Newcastle were never going to let Tonali leave in January. There’s absolutely nothing into it,” Riso said.
While the January links appear to have been overstated, the episode has done little to quieten longer-term talk.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano added further clarity, stating that a winter move was never on the table but hinting that the summer could be a different story.
Romano noted on X that Tonali’s situation is one to monitor once the season concludes, with several clubs already attentive to his status.
He wrote:
“Sandro Tonali was never gonna leave Newcastle in January window, never been a possibility. Could be one to watch in the summer with several clubs already keen, but it will depend on Newcastle + not a topic now.”
Tonali offers elite-level experience, tactical intelligence, and the ability to operate in multiple midfield roles and it is easy to see that Arteta would love a midfielder like him in the team.
Andy Robertson’s future at Liverpool is increasingly under scrutiny, with the Scotland international now expected ‘assess his options’ when his contract expires this summer.
According to Football Insider, the long-serving left-back is open to a new challenge after seeing his role at Anfield diminish over the course of the season.
Robertson, 31, has been one of Liverpool’s most influential players of the modern era, but recent developments have shifted his standing within the squad.
The arrival of Milos Kerkez has altered the pecking order at left-back, and head coach Arne Slot, Robertson is no longer considered the automatic first choice.
That reduced involvement has prompted serious reflection as he approaches the final months of his deal.
January interest and Tottenham’s persistent monitoring
Despite that rejection, Tottenham are believed to have revisited the situation on Deadline Day, making further enquiries to understand whether Liverpool’s position had softened.
It had not. Liverpool made it clear that Robertson would not be leaving midway through the campaign, particularly with the club still competing across multiple fronts.
Andy Robertson celebrates Liverpool’s victory over Burnley. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
While Liverpool’s refusal to sell in January was unsurprising, the longer-term picture appears more fluid.
With Kerkez increasingly trusted and Slot implementing a system that demands different positional profiles, Robertson’s minutes have declined sharply.
For a player accustomed to being central to Liverpool’s identity, that shift has been significant.
Sources close to the situation suggest Robertson remains highly professional and respected within the dressing room, but he is also realistic about his stage of career.
Robertson’s contribution to Liverpool cannot be overstated. Since arriving from Hull City, he has been a cornerstone of the club’s most successful period in decades.
Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero has delivered an honest and explosive assessment of the club’s situation following Spurs’ dramatic 2-2 Premier League draw with Manchester City, speaking out after the January transfer window closed with limited reinforcements arriving in north London.
The Argentine defender did not hide his disappointment, with sources close to the dressing room suggesting Romero feels Tottenham failed to adequately support head coach Thomas Frank during a critical period.
Tottenham’s resilience against Man City was undeniable. Trailing 2-0 late in the match, Spurs mounted an impressive comeback to secure a point, showcasing character and determination in the face of adversity.
However, the performance also showed how thin the squad has become.
At present, Tottenham are dealing with an injury list reportedly stretching to 13 players.
Key figures such as James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, Mohammed Kudus, and Richarlison are all sidelined, leaving Frank to patch together line-ups with limited options.
Romero’s post-match comments have been interpreted as a direct challenge to the club’s hierarchy.
“Great effort from all my teammates yesterday ,they were incredible.
“I wanted to be available to help them even though I wasn’t feeling well, especially since we only had 11 players available — unbelievable but true and disgraceful.
“We’ll keep showing up and taking responsibility to turn this around, working hard and staying together.
“All that’s left is to thank all of you for being there and for always supporting us, the fans, @spursofficial.”
Sergio Romero celebrates after Tottenham’s win vs Eintracht Frankfurt (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Tottenham’s form under Frank has dipped in recent weeks, and while injuries provide context, results have left the club drifting away from other top clubs.
The captain’s anger reflects not just the strain of injuries, but a belief that the squad needed greater backing when it mattered most.
As Spurs push through the remainder of the season with a depleted group, how the club responds, both on and off the pitch, may prove decisive for Frank’s project.
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched figures of the summer transfer window in 2026, with interest growing from across Europe’s elite.
Despite being under contract at Chelsea until 2032, the Argentine’s future is far from straightforward, as sporting ambition, financial reality, and outside interest begin to converge.
Fernández remains a central figure at Stamford Bridge, both in terms of on-pitch influence and long-term planning.
Much of Madrid’s thinking is linked to the long-term outlook surrounding Jude Bellingham.
Should Bellingham move on at the end of the season, a scenario Madrid are not actively planning for but cannot ignore, Fernández is seen as a profile capable of stepping into a leadership role at the Bernabéu.
That said, Madrid’s midfield is currently well stocked, and sources close to the club suggest there is no urgency to act.
Any move would likely depend on significant outgoings, which naturally slows momentum.
Chelsea’s stance remains firm in public. Head coach Liam Rosenior has repeatedly shown his desire to build around Fernández.
Internally, the Argentine is viewed as a reference point for both the present and the future.
Yet Chelsea’s financial obligations mean tough decisions may loom. If the club opt to sell, sources suggest a fee in the region of €100-110 million would be required.
BORAS, SWEDEN – OCTOBER 3: IF Elfsborg head coach Oscar Hiljemark gives a press conference after the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 match between IF Elfsborg and AS Roma at Boras Arena on October 3, 2024 in Boras, Sweden. (Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images)
The 33-year-old had been identified as the ideal replacement once Gilardino was dismissed, for amassing just one Serie A victory all season, 11 draws and 11 defeats.
Hiljemark must first terminate his contract by mutual consent with Elfsborg, having taken the job in June 2024 and with a deal that runs to December 2027.
Before that, he had a brief experience on the bench of Aalborg BK.
GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Cesare Prandelli new head coach of Genoa speak with Oscar Hiljemark during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SPAL at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on December 9, 2018 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Rattini/Getty Images)
The Swede is no stranger to Italian football, as he played in Serie A for much of his career as a midfielder with Palermo and Genoa from 2015 to 2019.
He hung up his boots at Aalborg in 2021 and immediately went into management as an assistant, then taking charge in March 2023.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta gave the perfect response when asked about Manchester United legend Paul Scholes criticising his team’s style.
Speaking at his press conference on Monday, Arteta was asked about concerns over his tactics and how entertaining the style of football has been this season.
Arsenal have had their critics, though Arteta mainly insisted that he only hears good things from people he’s spoken to around Europe.
The Spanish tactician was then also asked about Scholes in particular, as the pundit has been particularly outspoken about finding Arsenal boring to watch.
See below as Arteta shrugged it off in pretty damning style, making it clear how little Scholes’ opinion meant to him!
? Mikel Arteta's brilliant reaction to hearing that Paul Scholes is not a fan of Arsenal's style of play! ? pic.twitter.com/I4shy7WBKM
Arsenal fans won’t care about style as Arteta’s side close in on titles
Arsenal aren’t exactly playing the free-flowing attacking football that became their trademark under Arsene Wenger for so many years, but that approach didn’t exactly bring much success in the second half of the Frenchman’s reign.
Arsenal fans will just want to see their club get over the line as they chase the Premier League title and close in on the final of the Carabao Cup.
Mikel Arteta shouts instructions during Leeds vs Arsenal (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Plenty of teams have enjoyed success with a variety of different approaches down the years, and Arsenal under Wenger were often criticised for not being better at adapting their tactics to grind out results when needed.
Now that AFC are better at that, they seem to be attracting critics too, so Arteta will surely continue to shut out the noise from media figures like Scholes.
TRENTO, ITALY – JULY 22: Ishak Belfodil (L) of Internazionale Milano competes with Nicolas Giani (R) of Vicenza Calcio during the pre-season friendly match between FC Internazionale Milano and Vicenza Calcio on July 22, 2013 in Pinzolo near Trento, Italy. (Photo by Dino Panato/Getty Images)
Giani had started his career as part of the Inter youth academy, going on to play for Cremonese, Pro Patria, Vicenza, Perugia, SPAL, Spezia, Feralpisalò and Desenzano.
The centre-back was most closely associated with SPAL, who he represented from 2014 to 2017, becoming their captain during their climb to Serie A.
Giani never managed a single top flight game during his career, but had 181 in Serie B with five goals and four assists, plus over 200 in Serie C.
He had caps for Italy at Under-18 and Under-19 level.
Gian Piero Gasperini felt ‘luck was not on our side’ as Roma capitulated 1-0 to Udinese, but he welcomes the arrival of Donyell Malen and Bryan Zaragoza amid ‘difficulties’ on the transfer market.
The Giallorossi were ultimately undone by a deflection off Donyell Malen in the defensive wall, which gave Jurgen Ekkelenkamp’s free kick an extra spin to surprise Mile Svilar at the far top corner.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Roma players surround the referee after Cristante’s goal is ruled out during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
“We lacked precision in the final third, were unlucky by a few centimetres at the end and the goal we conceded showed luck was not on our side this evening.
“Nonetheless, we leave with our heads held high, and with the strength to keep improving ourselves.”
There were two big chances to equalise in stoppages, but Kostas Tsimikas was offside on the Bryan Cristante goal, then Maduka Okoye fingertipped the Gianluca Mancini toe-poke off the line.
However, there was precious little else upfront, so why the lack of scoring opportunities created?
“It was a very closed match, they too only had a couple of long-range attempts, otherwise it was difficult for both teams to build something. We were looking to do more and we didn’t manage it, but when you have five or six men in the box, that is a chance, even if we didn’t get the finish away. I feel like we did more in that sense.”
Gasperini expected fewer problems for Roma transfers
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Gian Piero Gasperini, manager of AS Roma, looks on before kick off at the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Roma have been busy in the transfer window, bringing in Malen, Robinio Vaz and today Bryan Zaragoza on loan with option to buy from Bayern Munich.
They also sent Leon Bailey back to Aston Villa midway through his loan spell.
“The transfer market is closed, now we have four months and I didn’t realise we’d have so much difficulty introducing players in roles that we had been trying to fill since the summer,” noted Gasperini when asked how happy he was with the club’s transfer strategy.
“Evidently there were a lot of difficulties. Now we have Malen and Zaragoza, who will certainly give us a hand, then some very young players. We’ll try to do our best.”
Are there any regrets or a player that he would’ve wanted to bring in at Roma?
“There were dozens of names mentioned in the media, but I’m glad we managed to get Malen and Zaragoza. I realise it’s never easy to do business in the January window, but these two players will certainly help. There are also youngsters like Venturino and Vaz who represent the future, but we cannot think they are competitive right now for such high ambitions.
“The most important thing is getting players like Manu Kone and Paulo Dybala back from injury, as this is a group that does not give up.”
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Bryan Cristante of Roma scores a goal which is ruled out during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
This result means that Roma slipped out of the top four and into fifth place, now two points behind Juventus.
They have now amassed just two draws in the last three competitive matches, held 1-1 by Milan and in the Europa League by Panathinaikos.
“These are difficult places to play, you can win or lose, we’ve seen that throughout the season.”
Napoli coach Antonio Conte complained that there are now far too many matches and they are damaging the health of players, so how does Gasperini reflect on that?
“This is the football system now, there are more tournaments and therefore more games. The only negative aspect is that 90 per cent of the injuries happen during matches, rarely in training, and there’s probably a reason for that,” replied the Roma coach.
“There have always been injuries, but there are double now because there are double the number of matches. The big problem is that with technology we have not been able to shorten the recovery time, although the tests are more precise in identifying injuries early. When you play more, there is a greater risk of injury, that’s just statistical probability.”
Roma saw their positive run of Serie A games ended by a surprise 1-0 defeat to Udinese, as Jurgen Ekkelenkamp’s deflected free kick proved decisive.
The Giallorossi played for 75 minutes down to 10 men on Thursday, but still earned a 1-1 draw with Panathinaikos to enter the Europa League last 16. Mario Hermoso returned, but Paulo Dybala, Manu Kone, Evan Ferguson, Artem Dovbyk and Stephan El Shaarawy missed the trip. The Friulani lost Alessandro Zanoli for the rest of the season to a torn ACL, with Adam Buksa, Hassane Kamara and Jakub Piotrowski also injured. Ex-Roma man Nicolò Zaniolo was back on the bench for the first time since knee surgery.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Gian Piero Gasperini, manager of AS Roma, reacts during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Mile Svilar needed two big saves in the opening minutes, first on Arthur Atta’s long-range strike, then doing the same on Jurgen Ekkelenkamp from even further out, with Oumar Solet unable to keep the rebound down.
Gianluca Mancini sprinted back and at full stretch toe-poked the Keinan Davis roll across away from Ekkelenkamp, who was ready to tap in from six yards.
Donyell Malen had a weak effort saved by Maduka Okoye on the Matias Soulé counter-attack, as Udinese continued to have the better of the game with Liam Miller also blasting just over the bar and Evan Ndicka’s decisive interception to prevent Davis going clear.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Evan Ndicka of Roma clashes with Keinan Davis of Udinese during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Soulé floated a free kick off target and after the restart Wesley’s cross-shot was parried at the near post by Okoye’s legs.
However, it was Udinese who took the lead moments later when Ekkelenkamp’s free kick took a big deflection off Malen in the wall to loop up past a helpless Svilar into the far top corner. Roma were furious, as they felt Mancini had not committed a foul to give away that free kick.
The good luck did not last long, because moments later Davis pulled up clutching his left thigh and had to limp off, visibly distraught at this latest injury setback.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Maduka Okoye of Udinese makes a save at a shot from Donyell Malen of Roma during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Malen’s free kick was straight into the wall, then his effort was deflected wide by Thomas Kristensen after a poor clearance.
Svilar had to palm a tricky Ekkelenkamp free kick out from under the bar, this time without a deflection, but Roma had the ball in the net at the 90th minute with Bryan Cristante only after Kostas Tsimikas wandered offside for the acrobatic assist.
Roma threatened again at the 97th minute, Okoye at full stretch to fingertip the ball off the line after a Mancini toe-poke from six yards.
The transfer window has closed in Serie A, but the clubs can still sell players, as Lazio sold Matias Vecino to Celta Vigo, while Nuno Tavares is still on the market.
The Biancocelesti made a lot of changes in the January session, having been banned from signing any new players over the summer due to the transfer embargo.
They also whittled down the options who no longer fit with coach Maurizio Sarri’s project.
Lazio part with Matias Vecino
UDINE, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Matias Vecino of SS Lazio celebrates a opening goal during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and SS Lazio at Stadio Friuli on December 27, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
His contract only had a few months left to run at the Stadio Olimpico, as he arrived in the summer of 2022 and went on to make 128 competitive appearances, scoring 13 goals.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 25: Santiago Pierotti of US Lecce challenges Nuno Tavares of Lazio during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Lecce at Stadio Olimpico on May 25, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Lazio aren’t done yet, as Nuno Tavares remains on the market, with Besiktas and Benfica interested in potentially picking up the injury-prone full-back.
Meanwhile, they have officially signed Blaz Kovac from NS Mura.
Udinese have officially signed Branimir Mlacic from Hajduk Split for a reported fee of €4.5m, just days after he had been on the verge of a move to Inter.
The central defender had been in advanced negotiations with Inter and the two clubs had shaken hands on an agreement last week.
epa11683268 Udineses supporters cheer during the Italian Serie A soccer match Udinese Calcio vs Cagliari Calcio at the Friuli – Bluenergy Stadium in Udine, Italy, 25 October 2024. EPA-EFE/GABRIELE MENIS
It was a chaotic transfer deadline day for Fiorentina striker Christian Kouame, who was close to Cagliari, then signed for Verona, but the contract was incomplete and rejected.
The 28-year-old Ivory Coast international is only under contract with the Viola until June 2027 and made just four competitive appearances for the club so far this season.
epa11746512 Fiorentina’s Foward Christian Kouame scores during the UEFA Europa Conference League match ACF Fiorentina vs Pafos at Artemio Franchi Stadium in Florence, Italy, 28 November 2024. EPA-EFE/CLAUDIO GIOVANNINI
In the final hour of the January transfer window in Serie A, Kouame had been seemingly on the verge of a move to Cagliari, only for that to be abandoned.
He was meant to be the replacement for Zito Luvumbo, who will be loaned to Mallorca with option to buy at the end of the season.
SALERNO, ITALY – APRIL 21: Christian Kouamé of ACF Fiorentina scores his sides first goal during the Serie A TIM match between US Salernitana and ACF Fiorentina TIM at Stadio Arechi on April 21, 2024 in Salerno, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Instead, Hellas Verona came in with a proposal and they had put pen to paper on the loan move, depositing it with the Lega Serie A in the final moments before the deadline.
It is now likely that Kouame will either terminate his contract by mutual respect and therefore become a free agent, or try to find a new club in one of the leagues where the transfer market is still open.
See below for details as Dean also revealed the fee for the player, whose arrival still hasn’t been officially confirmed by the clubs…
I'm told Jaden Dixon will be joining Arsenal from Stoke City for a fee of around £500,000. Chelsea were also interested in signing the 18-year-old England youth international.
“I’m told Jaden Dixon will be joining Arsenal from Stoke City for a fee of around £500,000. Chelsea were also interested in signing the 18-year-old England youth international,” Dean posted.
Arsenal get a late deal done as Chelsea miss out on top prospect
Arsenal fans will surely be pleased with this smart bit of business, with Dixon joining for very cheap despite looking like someone whose value will surely increase a lot in the next few years.
Jaden Dixon in action for Stoke City
The teenager has shown huge potential at Stoke, and it makes sense that this was a deal Chelsea were also really keen on.
The Blues have a policy of recruiting the best young players from English football and elsewhere in the world, and it looks like Dixon could have been a good fit.
Arsenal fans will now hope the Dixon deal can be officially announced soon and that he can go on to make an impact on their first-team before too long.
Even if he most likely won’t be a regular straight away, we have seen Mikel Arteta giving plenty of opportunities to top young players in recent times.
The transfer window is now closed, so we’ve rounded up every single done deal by all 20 Premier League clubs over the last month.
It wasn’t the most memorable January transfer window, but read on for every done deal as there were some major deals done by the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham.
For City, it was a pretty exciting window as Pep Guardiola moved to bring in Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth after his terrific form there in the last year and a half or so.
Meanwhile, Marc Guehi also made the move to the Etihad Stadium to fill the void left by the injured Josko Gvardiol, meaning that long-running saga came to an end a little earlier than expected, with his Crystal Palace contract only a few months away from expiring anyway.
For Arsenal, it was mostly a window of exits, as Ethan Nwaneri joined Marseille on loan, while Oleksandr Zinchenko left for a permanent move to Ajax.
Elsewhere, Conor Gallagher was a big name arrival back to the Premier League, with the former Chelsea midfielder leaving Atletico Madrid after a year and a half to join Tottenham.
Read on for our full list of done deals from this transfer window…
Arsenal
IN
None
OUT
Osman Kamara – Blackburn, undisclosed
Oleksandr Zinchenko – Ajax, undisclosed
Louie Copley – Crawley, loan
Ethan Nwaneri – Marseille, loan
Maldini Kacurri – Grimsby, loan
Aston Villa
Tammy Abraham in action for Aston Villa (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
IN
Tammy Abraham – Besiktas, £18.2m
Alysson – Gremio, £10m
Brian Madjo – Metz, undisclosed
Leon Bailey – Roma, loan recall
Douglas Luiz – Juventus, loan
OUT
Louie Barry – Stockport, loan
Samuel Iling-Junior, Pisa, loan
Ben Broggio – Falkirk, loan
Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba – West Brom, loan
Evann Guessand – Crystal Palace, loan
Aidan Borland – Swindon, loan
Sil Swinkels – Chesterfield, loan
Donyell Malen – Roma, loan with £21.6m obligation to buy
Liverpool have reportedly taken another step closer to signing Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, who has now had his medical with the Reds.
The talented 20-year-old has been the subject of a lot of interest this winter, with the Athletic reporting on his medical with Liverpool being scheduled.
And now Mike McGrath of the Telegraph has posted on X that that medical has now been done, with Jacquet all set to join Liverpool for a potential £60m package in the summer.
Jérémy Jacquet has completed his medical at Liverpool. The 20yr centre-back will join #LFC in £60m deal, with £55m up front and join in the summer after completing the season with Rennes
McGrath posted: “Jérémy Jacquet has completed his medical at Liverpool. The 20yr centre-back will join #LFC in £60m deal, with £55m up front and join in the summer after completing the season with Rennes.”
Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol had posted about the Blues pursuing the young defender, with Rennes’ preference always being to keep him until the summer.
Perhaps this ended up being the key detail, as LFC have clearly allowed Jacquet to remain with the Ligue 1 club for a few more months.
Jeremy Jacquet in action for Rennes
Chelsea, by contrast, looked like they really needed a new defender now, and this led to them recalling Mamadou Sarr from his loan spell at Strasbourg.
Liverpool fans will be delighted to see their club move quickly to hijack the deal and secure the services of one of the most highly regarded young defenders in Europe.
Arne Slot looks like he could do with a signing like this for the near future, with Virgil van Dijk not getting any younger, while Ibrahima Konate is coming towards the end of his contract this summer.
ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Como 1907 fans show their support during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It had seemed as if they might not get the paperwork completed in time, but the contract was registered with the Lega Serie A, having only moments to spare.
A product of the Hammarby youth academy, the teenage midfielder will join Como and work with coach Cesc Fabregas.
The Serie A high fliers also completed a few other deals on deadline day, as Patrick Cutrone moved to Monza on loan, Fellipe Jack to Catanzaro, Tommaso Fumagalli to Reggiana and Jacopo Simonetta to Siracusa.
The winter transfer window for Serie A clubs shut today at 20:00 CET (19:00 GMT). As usual, it was a hectic day during which many Serie A clubs confirmed purchases and departures.
Juventus confirmed Emil Holm’s initial loan move from Bologna, while Joao Mario joined the Rossoblu on a temporary transfer until the end of the season.
Juventus have also sent Daniele Rugani from Fiorentina on loan with an option to buy.
Bryan Zaragoza with Roma director Frederic Massara (asroma.com)
Roma welcomed their third attacking reinforcement in Bryan Zaragoza on loan with an option to buy from Bayern Munich. The Giallorossi had previously welcomed Donyell Malen from Aston Villa and Robinio Vaz from Olympique Marseille.
Napoli announced Brazilian winger Alisson Santos from Sporting CP.
Parma have also received attacking reinforcement with ex-Como winger Gabriel Strefezza, while Atalanta parted ways with Ademola Lookman, sending the Nigeria international to Atletico Madrid on a permanent €40m transfer.
Below are all the major transfers completed by Serie A clubs on deadline day.
2026 winter transfer window: Serie A deals completed on deadline day
Louis Buffon, son of Italy and Juventus legend Gianluigi, in action for Serie B side Pisa.
Enzo Ebosse from Udinese to Torino via Verona (loan)
Alphadjo Cissè From Milan to Catanzaro via Verona (loan)
Tommaso Corazza from Bologna to Cesena (loan)
Nicola Pintus from Cagliari to Cosenza (loan)
Giuseppe Ambrosino from Napoli to Modena (loan)
Andrias Edmundsson to Verona from Wisla Plock (permanent €2.5m)
Mateus Lusuardi from Pisa to Reggiana (loan)
Laurs Skjellerup from Sassuolo to Spezia (loan)
Felipe Jack from Como to Catanzaro (loan)
Emil Holm to Juventus from Bologna (loan with €15m option to buy)
GENOA, ITALY – AUGUST 31: João Mario of Juventus looks on during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Juventus FC at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on August 31, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Joao Mario to Bologna from Juventus (loan)
Louis Buffon from Pisa to Pontedera (loan)
Leonardo Buta from Udinese to Rio Ave (loan)
Morten Thorsby to Cremonese from Genoa (permanent €2.5m )
Daniele Rugani to Fiorentina from Juventus (loan with option to buy for €2m)
Dennis Johnsen from Cremonese to Palermo (permanent €3m)
Gabriel Strefezza to Parma from Olympiacos (loan with option to buy)
Bryan Zaragoza to Roma from Bayern Munich (loan with option to buy)
Ulisses Garcia to Sassuolo from Marseille (loan with option to buy)
Alisson Santos to Napoli from Sporting CP (loan with option to buy)
Pedro Felipe to Sassuolo from Juventus NextGen (loan)
Ademola Lookman from Atalanta to Atletico Madrid (permanent €40m)
Branimir Mlacic to Udinese from Hajduk Split (permanent €4.5m)
Samuel Iling Junior to Pisa from Aston Villa (loan)
Darryl Bakola to Sassuolo from Marseille (permanent €10m)
Sebastiano Luperto to Cremonese from Cagliari (permanent €4.6m)
Alberto Cerri from Como to Cesena (undefined)
Nicholas Pierini from Sassuolo to Sampdoria (loan)
Adrian Lahdo to Como from Hammarby (permanent €18m)
Yanis Massolin to Inter from Modena (permanent €8m, then back to Modena on loan)
Rui Modesto from Udinese to Palermo (loan)
Saba Goglichidze from Udinese to Watford (loan)
Tete Morente end of Lecce contract
Matias Vecino from Lazio to Celta Vigo (permanent)
Inter have officially purchased midfielder Yanis Massolin for a reported fee of €8m including add-ons, but he will remain on loan at Modena for the rest of the season.
The 23-year-old creative midfielder can also play out wide on the right of attack.
Inter secure Massolin for their future
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
It is a big investment for the Nerazzurri, who see him as the future of their midfield with players like Hakan Calhanoglu and Henrikh Mkhitaryan getting older.
Massolin has French and Martinique citizenship, with experiences already in Switzerland, France and Belgium before Modena bought him for €700,000 in July 2025.
He made 15 competitive appearances this season between Serie A and the Coppa Italia, scoring one goal and providing two assists.
It is reported the formal fee for Inter is €3.5m, but with various performance-related bonuses it can rise to €8m.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The Giallorossi are fresh from a 1-1 draw against Milan and secured their spot in the Europa League Round of 16 thanks to Thursday’s 1-1 result away to Panathinaikos, despite being down to 10 men.
Gian Piero Gasperini must do without Paulo Dybala, Manu Kone, Evan Ferguson, Artem Dovbyk and Stephan El Shaarawy.
However, Mario Hermoso returns to the squad, with January signings Malen and Robinio Vaz available.
Gianluca Mancini was sent off early into that Europa League game, so will be eager to make up for it.
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 15: Matias Soule of AS Roma gestures during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Como 1907 at Stadio Olimpico on December 15, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Udinese are comfortably mid-table and could even push their way into the top 10 with a success here.
Alessandro Zanoli was diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament, so he is out for the rest of the season.
He joins Adam Buksa, Hassane Kamara and Jakub Piotrowski on the treatment table, but ex-Roma star Nicolò Zaniolo returns to the bench for the first time since knee surgery last month.
Atta and Davis lead the attack, with Jurgen Ekkelenkamp in support following the victory away to Verona.
Roma have won their last six consecutive Serie A meetings with Udinese, home and away, since a 4-0 defeat here in September 2022.
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 25: Keinan Davis of Udinese celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and US Lecce at Stadio Friuli on October 25, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
The 22-year-old continues his tour of Europe, struggling to settle at any club for very long.
The Chelsea youth academy product had joined Juventus for €1.88m in 2020, then was sold to Aston Villa in July 2024 for a fee of €14m as part of the Douglas Luiz deal.
Iling-Junior back in Serie A for Pisa
Samuel Iling Junior of Bologna during the Coppa Italia match between Bologna FC and AC Monza at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 03, 2024 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
However, he was immediately sent back to Serie A on loan for Bologna, which was interrupted in February 2025 and re-routed towards Middlesbrough.
It happened again this term, as Iling-Junior was loaned to West Bromwich Albion, but that has been cut short for another loan move.
This time he is returning to Serie A for rock bottom Pisa, who just sacked coach Alberto Gilardino last night and are currently without a tactician.
Louis Buffon, son of Italy and Juventus legend Gianluigi, in action for Serie B side Pisa.
Oscar Hiljemark is expected to take over as soon as he terminates his contract with Elfsborg.
Sassuolo have been one of the most active Serie A sides on deadline day, buying Ismael Kone outright from Olympique Marseille, signing Ulisses Garcia and Darryl Bakola from the same club.
The Neroverdi are comfortably mid-table following promotion from Serie B last summer, but are nonetheless eager to reinforce the squad in the final hours of the January transfer window.
Ulisses Garcia joins Sassuolo from Olympique Marseille
They activated their existing €13m option to buy Kone outright from Olympique Marseille, getting it done early to reward the Canada international for his performances so far this season.
The 23-year-old midfielder had an obligation to buy if they secured their Serie A status, after the initial €2.5m loan.
That was one of three deals done with Olympique Marseille this evening.
Sassuolo also snapped up left-back Ulisses Garcia, who just turned 30 last month and has 11 senior caps for Switzerland.
There is believed to be an option to buy at the end of the season for €3m.
Darryl Bakola joins Sassuolo from Olympique Marseille
Fiorentina are reportedly pushing to reach an agreement with Aston Villa for Kosta Nedeljkovic, while RB Leipzig have already agreed to terminate the defender’s loan spell.
Fiorentina are making a last-minute attempt to sign Serbian right-back Nedeljkovic on an initial loan deal from Aston Villa.
Fiorentina push to sign Nedeljkovic on loan
LEIPZIG, GERMANY – MAY 03: Kosta Nedeljkovic of Leipzig in action during the Bundesliga match between RB Leipzig and FC Bayern München at Red Bull Arena on May 03, 2025 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
The 20-year-old is currently on loan at RB Leipzig, where he has only collected 297 minutes across all competitions this term.
Reporter Philipp Hinze claims on X social media that the Bundesliga side have already agreed to cut the defender’s loan spell short.
The Tuscans must reach an agreement with Aston Villa now, but they are running out of time as the winter transfer window shuts today at 20:00 CET (19:00 GMT), so in less than one hour.
Busy Fiorentina in January window
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Paolo Vanoli ACF Fiorentina head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Fiorentina have been busy in the January transfer window as they surprisingly found themselves fighting for survival in the first part of the campaign.
The Tuscans are currently in the relegation zone, but just one point below safety.
Nigeria international Ademola Lookman has officially joined Atletico Madrid from Atalanta.
Lookman has joined Atletico Madrid from Atalanta, as the two clubs confirmed with official statements on Monday.
Lookman had travelled to the Spanish capital to undergo medical tests on Sunday and has now completed a permanent transfer to the Wanda Metropolitano.
Official: Lookman joins Atletico Madrid
BERGAMO, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC controls the ball whilst under pressure from Niccolo Fortini of Fiorentina during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and ACF Fiorentina at Gewiss Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Lookman scored 55 goals in 137 games with Atalanta, including a historic hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League Final, which allowed La Dea to beat Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 and claim their first UEFA trophy.
Lookman spent the last three and a half years at Atalanta.
“The Percassi family, the Pagliuca family, and the entire Club bid farewell to Ademola, thanking him and wishing him every success in the future,” said the Serie A side.
Lookman had recently returned to Atalanta from Nigeria international duty for AFCON.
He scored three goals and provided two assists in 19 appearances with La Dea this season.
Lookman’s salary and transfer fee revealed
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 30: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between Atalanta BC and Club Brugge KV at Stadio di Bergamo on September 30, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
According to several sources, Atalanta have earned €35m plus potential €5m add-ons from Lookman’s transfer, while the striker will earn €7m per season at his new club.
Atalanta and Atletico Madrid practically swapped strikers in the January window as La Dea had previously signed Giacomo Raspadori from the Colchoneros.
The left-sided attacking winger is Brazilian, but also has Tunisian citizenship.
There are still some doubts over the precise figures, but Sky Sport Italia claim this evening that the total cost would reach €19m rather than €23m, although there might be further add-ons.
Alisson Santos comes to Serie A for Napoli
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Alisson Santos of Sporting Clube de Portugal battles for possession with David Neres of SSC Napoli during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between SSC Napoli and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
He came to Europe for Leiria in 2024 and EC Vitoria sold him to Sporting CP in July 2025 at a cost of €2.1m.
His profile soared over the last six months thanks to three goals and three assists in 31 competitive games for Sporting CP.
Curiously, all his goals were scored in the Champions League.
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Alisson Santos of Sporting Clube de Portugal battles for possession with Leonardo Spinazzola of SSC Napoli during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between SSC Napoli and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Chelsea have officially announced that Mamadou Sarr has been recalled to the club from his loan at Strasbourg, while Aaron Anselmino has joined the Ligue 1 side.
The Blues recently recalled Anselmino from his loan stint with Borussia Dortmund, and it looked like this could lead to him being involved in their first-team in the second half of the season.
However, Chelsea have now confirmed that the talented young Argentine has instead gone on loan to Strasbourg for the second half of this campaign, replacing Sarr as he’s returned to Stamford Bridge.
See below for the official announcements, which came in quick succession this evening…
Mamadou Sarr has returned to Chelsea from his loan spell at Strasbourg.
Even if some Chelsea fans might be a bit baffled by all this movement, it could end up being smart business by the west London giants to get Sarr playing under Liam Rosenior again.
Rosenior recently replaced Enzo Maresca as CFC manager, having impressed at fellow BlueCo club Strasbourg.
Mamadou Sarr takes a sip of water (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Sarr played under Rosenior and performed well, so that could be a useful option for Chelsea to have in the second half of the season.
It will be interesting to see if the talented 20-year-old goes straight into the Chelsea team, but there’s no doubt Rosenior could do with more options at the back.
There’ll no doubt be fans looking into last minute Arsenal vs Chelsea tickets for tomorrow night’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, but that game is surely going to come too soon for Sarr.
The Senegal international would really be being thrown in at the deep end if he were to be handed his Chelsea debut in such a big game at the Emirates Stadium, but perhaps after that he’ll get a run in the side.
?? EXCLUSIVE: Dayot Upamecano approves new deal at Bayern, clubs interested are informed!
He’s set to sign new contract soon at FC Bayern, happy to stay as huge boost for the club after big efforts from club and player side to make it happen. ??
Romano posted: “Dayot Upamecano approves new deal at Bayern, clubs interested are informed! He’s set to sign new contract soon at FC Bayern, happy to stay as huge boost for the club after big efforts from club and player side to make it happen. It will be valid until 2030.”
Dayot Upamecano decision looks like a blow for Liverpool
We’ve previously reported on Liverpool’s interest in Upamecano, as has Christian Falk in one of his columns here, but the Reds now look set to miss out on the 27-year-old.
Dayot Upamecano in action for Bayern (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
This is hardly ideal for LFC at a time when they look in need of a major shake-up in defence, with Ibrahima Konate coming towards the end of his contract at Anfield.
Meanwhile, Virgil van Dijk is not getting any younger, so there could soon be the need for a player of Upamecano’s calibre to come in and become a new key player in Arne Slot’s back line.
Bayern fans will be delighted, though, as Upamecano can now put the speculation behind him and focus on getting back to his very best.
Fabrizio Romano has some positive Arsenal transfer news today despite it being a mostly underwhelming Deadline Day for the Gunners and a lot of other clubs.
It seems the Gunners have agreed the signing of Stoke City wonderkid Jaden Dixon, with Romano posting that the deal is done for £3.2m.
See below for details as Romano also claims Arsenal view this as a “massive signing” for a very highly regarded young talent…
???? EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal agree deal to sign England U19 international Jaden Dixon on a four-year deal.
Deal completed for £3.2m plus add-ons. Arsenal view the player as a massive signing beating several clubs to the signings. pic.twitter.com/9z5oX5SEKf
Romano posted: “Arsenal agree deal to sign England U19 international Jaden Dixon on a four-year deal. Deal completed for £3.2m plus add-ons. Arsenal view the player as a massive signing beating several clubs to the signings.”
Arsenal have had long-standing transfer interest in Jaden Dixon
This is not the first time Arsenal have been linked with Dixon, with the Daily Mail first reporting on the north Londoners keeping tabs on him almost a year ago.
Jayden Dixon is set to sign for Arsenal
Still, it now seems a deal is close to going through, so Arsenal can say they’ve got an important bit of business done before this evening’s transfer deadline.
Interestingly, it’s not the first time Arsenal have signed a Dixon from Stoke!
Back in 1988, Lee Dixon made the move from Stoke to Arsenal, and he ended up becoming an all-time great for the Gunners, forming part of that legendary back four along with other top defensive players such as Tony Adams, Martin Keown and Nigel Winterburn.
Dixon stayed at Arsenal until his retirement in 2002, winning a total of four league titles and numerous other major honours.
If this Dixon can go on to enjoy even half the career that his namesake had at Arsenal, then he’ll have done very well indeed!
According to Fabrizio Romano on X, Spurs now have a deal in place to sign the 18-year-old, with the Italian journalist giving the move his trademark “here we go!” to suggest it’s all but done.
“James Wilson to Tottenham, here we go! Deal in place for Scottish 18 year old striker to join #THFC project. Arsenal were offering a trial while Spurs offer loan deal with buy option clause now agreed with Hearts. Medical happening now with formal steps next,” Romano said.
It seems Spurs’ offer was key here, with Wilson surely looking like he was better off choosing them for his career development.
Arsenal’s offer was more of a trial, whereas there seems to be a bit more security with his loan to Tottenham.
Arsenal have reportedly made an enquiry about Bayern Munich central midfielder Leon Goretzka, though a move currently looks unlikely.
That’s according to a report from talkSPORT, who state that the Gunners had explored the option of landing Goretzka to give them cover for the injured Mikel Merino.
The experienced Germany international is out of contract with Bayern this summer, so looks to be heading out of the Allianz Arena on a free transfer.
This could have given Arsenal an opportunity to sign Goretzka on the cheap, but it seems this now won’t be happening.
What we know about Arsenal’s interest in Leon Goretzka
Leon Goretzka warming up for Bayern Munich (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
Consulting our sources in the industry, we can confirm Arsenal have had some interest in Goretzka, but the 30-year-old appears to have made up his mind to see out his Bayern contract and leave for a new challenge in the summer.
This gives Goretzka more time to evaluate offers that come in, and it’s not necessarily clear that he’d get much more playing time at Arsenal than he’s currently getting at Bayern.
At various points in the day, we’ve been informed that it’s “likely” we’ll see Arsenal sign someone as cover for Merino, but with just over an hour left until the window shuts, this now seems increasingly unlikely.
Arsenal also linked with Sandro Tonali
There have also been surprise rumours today about Arsenal eyeing up Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali.
This was confirmed by David Ornstein of the Athletic, but with the reporter also making it clear that Tonali would not be leaving St James’ Park this winter.
Tonali could perhaps be one to watch again in the summer, whereas Goretzka would surely only have been a short-term option as he no longer looks like being at the peak of his powers.
The Sun have also linked Tonali with Chelsea and Manchester City.
Sandro Tonali’s agent has spoken out on the transfer rumours circulating about his client today as Arsenal and Chelsea are both linked with the Newcastle midfielder.
Tonali has shone during his time at St James’ Park and links with bigger clubs won’t come as too much of a surprise, though Arsenal’s interest did come slightly out of the blue earlier today.
The Italy international’s agent Beppe Riso has now addressed the speculation, denying any talks with Arsenal so far.
The Gunners could do with adding more depth to their midfield, and Tonali is the calibre of player who could surely challenge for a place in Mikel Arteta’s side.
Sandro Tonali transfer situation explained
Sandro Tonali arrives for a Newcastle game (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Still, for now it seems like the Arsenal links have been over-egged slightly, with the player’s agent playing the stories down.
Riso did suggest, however, that this could be something he and his client look at in March.
“We will evaluate in March whether Newcastle are open to anything, but right now he is playing in the Champions League, it is not the right moment to talk about it.”
Chelsea rival Arsenal for Sandro Tonali transfer
Meanwhile, Chelsea are now also being linked with Tonali by the Sun, who also mention Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola as being an admirer of the 25-year-old.
It will be interesting to see how this pans out, but Tonali may well find it easier to get more playing time at Chelsea or City than at Arsenal.
Arteta already has Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi, whereas Tonali could be an upgrade on the inconsistent Enzo Fernandez at Stamford Bridge, or the ageing and injury-prone Rodri at the Etihad Stadium.
Agent Giuseppe Riso confirms Nottingham Forest and ‘Lazio made an approach’ for Inter midfielder Davide Frattesi, but ‘Liverpool wouldn’t let Curtis Jones go’ and blocked his exit.
The Italy international had been seemingly on the verge of leaving San Siro in the January transfer window after struggling to get regular playing time.
epa12078784 FC Inter’s Davide Frattesi (R) celebrates scoring the 4-3 goal during the UEFA Champions League semifinal 2nd leg soccer match between Inter Milan and FC Barcelona, in Milan, Italy, 06 May 2025. EPA-EFE/ROBERTO BREGANI
“There was an approach from Lazio, but then Liverpool wouldn’t let Jones go, so at the end of the day it all ground to a halt,” confessed agent Riso on Sky Sport Italia.
“Frattesi won’t go to Nottingham Forest either. Inter don’t want to be deprived of his experience at this moment and did not want to go any further in talks.”
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 13: Curtis Jones of Liverpool in action during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield on December 13, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Cremonese goalkeeper Emil Audero released a video message thanking everyone for their ‘affection’ after he was hit by a firework thrown by Inter fans. ‘I feel relieved, as it could’ve been a lot worse.’
Audero recognises he was lucky not to get badly hurt
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
“Hello everyone, this is simply a message to thank everyone who wrote to me to ask how I was. I’m fine, although I had a strong pain in my ear and a burning sensation in my knee,” explained the shot-stopper.
“I managed to train today and feel relieved, because having seen the footage, it could’ve really been a lot worse. I’m glad that it went well, despite it all.
“Unfortunately, these things still happen, but I hope they will stop in future. I thank all those who wrote to me and send a hug.”
Juventus have confirmed the signing of Emil Holm on loan with an option to buy from Bologna, and Joao Mario’s temporary transfer to the Stadio Dall’Ara.
Serie A giants Juventus have confirmed a double deal with Bologna.
Rossoblu right-back Holm has moved to Turin on loan with an option to buy, while Joao Mario has travelled in the opposite direction on a temporary deal until the end of the season.
Joao Mario joins Bologna: official Juventus statement
VERONA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Joao Mario of Juventus FC is challenged by Domagoj Bradaric of Hellas Verona during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Juventus FC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on September 20, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
“Joao Mario will play the second half of the 2025/26 Serie A season away from the Juventus Men’s First Team,” the Bianconeri said.
“The Portuguese winger will stay in Italy, though, as he will be joining Bologna on a loan deal until 30 June, 2026.
“Having arrived at Juventus last summer, the 26-year-old has taken to the pitch in our jersey thirteen times, between Serie A and the Champions League. It was during his European debut with Juventus – in the match against Borussia Dortmund – that he registered his first assist.
GENOA, ITALY – AUGUST 31: João Mario of Juventus looks on during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Juventus FC at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on August 31, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
“Good luck on this new adventure, Joao!”
The Portuguese right-back only played 373 minutes in the first part of the season with Juventus, providing one assist.
Juventus set to welcome Holm from Bologna
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Lois Openda of Juventus is challenged by Emil Holm of Bologna during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Juventus FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Juventus also confirmed Holm’s initial loan move, saying that they hold an option to buy for €15m payable over three financial years, along with up to €3m of bonuses over the duration of his contract.
Holm, 25, was a semi-regular starter at Bologna, where he scored one goal and provided five assists in 19 appearances across all competitions in 2025-26.
Sandro Tonali’s agent Beppe Riso denies reports he offered the Newcastle United player to Arsenal, but left the door open to Juventus. ‘We’ll evaluate it in March.’
There had been rumours that the Gunners were in talks for the midfielder in the January transfer window, but that Newcastle slammed the door shut immediately.
Claims Tonali pushing for Newcastle exit
FLORENCE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Gianluigi Donnarumma and Sandro Tonali of Italy arrive during an Italy Training Session at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on September 05, 2023 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Now The Athletic claim that it was Tonali’s agent who made the approach to Arsenal director Andrea Berta and proposed the potential move.
“I read it, but Newcastle won’t let Sandro leave in January, and we never talked to Arsenal about this,” said Tonali’s representative.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – MAY 11: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Chelsea FC at St James’ Park on May 11, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
“We will evaluate in March whether Newcastle are open to anything, but right now he is playing in the Champions League, it is not the right moment to talk about it.”
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – OCTOBER 01: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between R. Union Saint-Gilloise and Newcastle United FC at RSC Anderlecht Stadium on October 01, 2025 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Omar Havana/Getty Images)
This would open up a scenario where the Azzurri star is actively seeking a new club beyond the Magpies, who he joined from Milan for €60.8m plus add-ons in 2023.
His current contract with Newcastle United only runs to June 2028, and Milan are owed a 10 per cent cut of his future sale fee.
Tonali has 35 competitive appearances for the Premier League side so far this season, contributing five assists.
Jean-Philippe Mateta has failed his medical tests with Milan, and according to Sacha Tavolieri, his knee problem is so severe that he’ll have to undergo surgery and remain out of action for at least three months.
Mateta’s move to Milan has collapsed after the Frenchman failed to pass medical tests with the Rossoneri.
Why Mateta didn’t join Milan
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 07: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace reacts during the Premier League match between Fulham and Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage on December 07, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
The Crystal Palace forward was initially checked in London on Sunday, but unconvincing results prompted Milan to make further assessments in Paris today.
Transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri adds on X social media that examinations revealed such severe damage that the Palace centre-forward will require knee surgery to make a full recovery.
BECKENHAM, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Jean-Philippe Mateta laughs during a Crystal Palace FC training session at Crystal Palace FC Training Ground on November 05, 2025 in Beckenham, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
This means Mateta will remain out of action for three to four months, according to the report.
With just two hours left to the end of the winter transfer window, Milan are not expected to bring in further reinforcement.
The Serie A giants already signed Niclas Fullkrug from West Ham at the beginning of the January window.
That will become an obligation if certain sporting conditions are met, specifically Champions League qualification and a specific number of appearances made by the player.
MADRID, SPAIN – DECEMBER 07: Bryan Zaragoza of RC Celta Vigo looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and RC Celta de Vigo at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on December 07, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Zaragoza is a versatile attacking player, able to work on the left, the right, or in a more central trequartista role.
He came through the Granada youth academy, moving to Bayern Munich in 2024 for a total fee of €17m.
Milan are travelling to Bologna for an away Serie A match without their star Christian Pulisic, reports Sky Sport Italia.
USMNT star Pulisic won’t be available for Tuesday’s Serie A match between his Milan side and Bologna at the Stadio Dall’Ara.
Pulisic to miss Bologna vs. Milan
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 08: Referee Maurizio Mariani speaks to Christian Pulisic of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Sky Sport Italia reports that the American star didn’t join the rest of the squad on the team bus after a training session on Monday afternoon.
It’s now been confirmed that Pulisic won’t make the trip to Bologna, just like Alexis Saelemaekers.
Three Milan players miss Bologna clash
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Alexis Saelemaekers of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Belgian right wing-back will be replaced by Zachary Athekame or Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Allegri said.
Rafael Leao is not fully fit, but is expected to start in Bologna tomorrow.
Santiago Gimenez is also out of action due to an ankle injury and is not expected to return before March.
The 31-year-old defender completed the transfer this afternoon, with just hours to spare before the deadline.
It is believed that the cost of the six-month loan is €500,000 and the option to buy is worth a further €2m.
This will become an obligation if certain conditions are met, which Sky Sport Italia maintain are Fiorentina managing to avoid relegation into Serie B.
New Serie A experience for Rugani
LEWISBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – JUNE 14: Daniele Rugani #24 Juventus arrives at the airport prior to the official FIFA Club World Cup 2025 on June 14, 2025 in Lewisburg, West Virginia. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)
Rugani was a product of the Empoli and Juventus youth academies, also going out on loan to Stade Rennes, Cagliari and Ajax.
The centre-back had managed eight appearances for Juventus this season between Serie A and the Champions League.
He amassed 177 Serie A games in his career, winning five Scudetto titles, four editions of the Coppa Italia and two of the Supercoppa Italiana.
LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Alessio Romagnoli of SS Lazio competes for the ball with Santiago Perotti of US Lecce during the Serie A match between US Lecce and SS Lazio at Stadio Via del Mare on January 24, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
“The player has understood that there’s no future at Lazio. There was never a proposal to extend the contract, and the club still has to pay several past wages,” Raiola told Sky Sport.
“We continued negotiations even after the unexpected statement from the President. Al-Sadd had sent a formal offer, but Lazio never replied.
“Alessio told Sarri that he wanted to move to Qatar. Over the last year and a half, he’s realised that there’s no future at Lazio and he’s told me more than once that the last Italian club he’ll play for are the Biancocelesti. He’s expressed his desire to play abroad.
“There was never an offer to extend,” Raiola continued.
“After the qualification for the Champions League, we expected a call from the club, because promises were made when Alessio had signed his contract. It’s been three and a half years, I think we can forget this call.”
Romagnoli’s agent explained that Lazio and Al-Sadd, coached by ex-Italy boss Roberto Mancini, ultimately found an agreement on January 31, but it was too late as the winter transfer window in Qatar closed on that day.
LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Alessio Romagnoli of SS Lazio after the Serie A match between US Lecce and SS Lazio at Stadio Via del Mare on January 24, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
“At that moment, there was no time to sign the contract,” Raiola said.
“We still don’t understand why some of the wages have not been paid; it’s quite frequent in Italy, and this becomes a blackmail against the players, because when they accept being on the market, they must also give up wages that have not been paid. We did not understand this condition.”
Romagnoli was not called up for Lazio’s last Serie A match against Genoa as he had not trained with the rest of the team after the Biancocelesti initially refused to sell him.
His contract expires in June 2027, but it’s hard to imagine him staying at the Olimpico beyond the current campaign. Raiola said that his client wants to continue playing for at least six more years.
“He’s training and will continue his path at Lazio. He’s a professional, so he’ll continue the season here,” concluded Raiola.
“He could have taken a firmer hold of the situation, but instead, he always wanted to seek a relationship, something that had never existed at the top levels of the club. The only people he confronted were director Fabiani and Sarri. We’ll see what the future holds.”
David Ornstein has reported on Sandro Tonali and Arsenal after some surprise rumours doing the rounds earlier today.
Posting on X just moments ago, Ornstein confirmed that Arsenal explored a deal for Tonali after being offered the Newcastle United midfielder.
However, for now it looks like there hasn’t been any contact over this potential deal, which looks impossible for the final few hours of this transfer window…
? Sandro Tonali offered to Arsenal by agent so #AFC explored but no contact with Newcastle United; nothing will happen this window. 25yo’s camp put idea to Andrea Berta so looked into as per any player of interest. #NUFC exit now impossible @TheAthleticFChttps://t.co/Dj1rlbgFbH
Ornstein posted: “Sandro Tonali offered to Arsenal by agent so #AFC explored but no contact with Newcastle United; nothing will happen this window. 25yo’s camp put idea to Andrea Berta so looked into as per any player of interest. #NUFC exit now impossible”
Sandro Tonali Arsenal transfer could be one to watch for the future
Interestingly, Ornstein has made it clear that Tonali is a player of interest, so this perhaps means Arsenal will look again at the Italy international in the summer.
For now, this looks like an impossible deal, and one imagines Newcastle will not be at all keen on letting such an important player go.
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle in action (Photo by Omar Havana/Getty Images)
Tonali has shone during his time at St James’ Park and it’s easy to see why a big name like Arsenal would be interested.
The Gunners just lost Mikel Merino to injury and lack much in the way of depth behind Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi, so Tonali could be an ideal option.
Sandro Tonali exit would be a huge blow for Newcastle
Newcastle lost Alexander Isak in the summer so they surely won’t want another major saga like this in the months ahead.
The Magpies are building something very promising under Eddie Howe, having once again qualified for the Champions League last season, and making it into the knockout stages of this term’s competition.
Still, Arsenal are now favourites for the Premier League title and are closing in on a place in the Carabao Cup final, so it’s easy to see someone like Tonali viewing that as a step up.
Justin Oboavwoduo has joined Juventus Next Gen from the Manchester City academy, signing a contract until June 2028.
English striker Oboavwoduo has joined Serie A giants Juventus from Manchester City.
Official: Oboavwoduo joins Juventus
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 23: Justin Oboavwoduo of Manchester City in action during the UEFA Youth League 2024/25 match between Manchester City and Sparta Praha at Joie Stadium on October 23, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
The 19-year-old forward will begin his career in Turin in the NextGen squad, playing in Italy’s third division, Serie C.
Juventus confirmed Oboavwoduo’s transfer with an official statement on Monday.
“With impressive speed, skill and a keen eye for goal, he’s ready to take on the new challenge in Italy and continue his development,” the Bianconeri said.
Oboavwoduo had undergone medical tests in Turin on Monday.
During the first part of the campaign at Manchester City, he scored six goals and provided five assists in 18 appearances across all competitions, including five goals in six Premier League 2 games.
Double deal for Juventus NextGen
Born in Manchester on August 23, 2006, Oboavwoduo made his England U20 debut in September 2024.
Juventus also confirmed Adin Licina’s transfer from the Bayern Munich Academy.
The German was born in 2007 and has signed a contract until June 2029. Licina will also begin his Juventus career in the NextGen squad.
The latest updates in Italy claim that Milan’s deal for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has fallen through in the final hours of the January transfer window.
Sky: Mateta to Milan deal is now off
Milan have been attempting to close a deal for Mateta over the last few days of the January transfer window.
The Rossoneri agreed a fee in excess of €30m with Crystal Palace, the South London outfit had reached an agreement for Mateta’s replacement – Jorgen Strand Larsen – and the Frenchman has also had his customary medical checks ahead of an expected move to San Siro.
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 06: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace runs for the ball during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Crystal Palace FC and AZ Alkmaar at Selhurst Park on November 06, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
However, according to updates on Sunday evening, the transfer had stalled due to issues that were reported during Mateta’s medical.
There had been suggestions that there was an underlying issue with the striker’s knee. In response, Milan have sent their own medics to take a further look at the matter.
Milan have history in this respect: Nigeria international Victor Boniface flew out to Italy for a medical with the Rossoneri during the summer transfer window, but was later told to return home after concerns surrounding his knee, specifically with his history of cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries.
Now, according to the latest updates in Italy, Mateta has met the same fate.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 18: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Crystal Palace FC and KuPS Kuopio at Selhurst Park on December 18, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Sky Sport Italia reports that negotiations between Milan and Crystal Palace have now ‘definitively’ broken down. According to Gianluca Di Marzio, this decision was taken as a result of the latest round of medical checks.
This may be good news for Juventus, however, who have also been linked with a last-minute move for the Palace man on their hunt for a new striker on deadline day.
Antonio Conte insists no action is being taken to ease the fixture congestion and taunts Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri: ‘Surely, he is not playing that much this year.’
Conte received the Panchina d’Oro award for the best Serie A coach in 2024-25 on Monday.
The Napoli coach spoke to reporters after the ceremony held in Florence and faced more questions about his recent complaints over a busy fixture list.
Conte: ‘Everyone talks, but then nobody does anything.’
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – DECEMBER 18: Antonio Conte, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, looks on prior to the Supercoppa Italiana Semi-Final match between SSC Napoli and AC Milan at King Saud University Stadium on December 18, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
“I think we all agree. The problem is that it’s hard to speak out and take a position, because everyone talks, but then nobody does anything. That’s the truth,” Conte said via FcInter1908.
“We’ll keep going like this, knowing that what I said is true anyway. There are institutions in charge of these matters. The German federation was taking a stance to do something, but it couldn’t act on its own, for example, as a group of coaches.
“As for the Serie A teams, those are situations that don’t concern me directly, but it’s a problem we all agree on, including the media, because too many matches are played and the risk is too high. But in the end, nothing is being done, that’s the truth,” the Napoli boss continued.
Milan coach Allegri had just held his press conference ahead of a Serie A match against Bologna, saying, “I read a lot of controversy. We are not the ones who have to find solutions; there are competent people who must find solutions for the good of football.”
Conte commented: “I don’t know what Allegri said in his press conference. Surely this year, he is not playing that much.”
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Conte’s Napoli had to deal with many injuries this season, including those of Kevin De Bruyne, Frank Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour, David Neres and Romelu Lukaku.
The Partenopei feared that even Giovanni Di Lorenzo had sustained a long-term injury, but recent exams in his knee highlighted a second-degree sprain, meaning that he won’t need surgery, returning to action in mid-March.
Di Lorenzo’s injury relief and his latest award at least made Conte smile after days of tension.
“Those things must never be missing. During matches, there’s the stress of the job, an accumulation of fatigue, and it’s hard to hide it. However, you have to be optimistic and try to find a solution even in the worst moments,” he concluded.
Sporting CP winger Alisson Santos is in Italy, has reportedly completed his medical and is now just an official announcement away from being formally announced as a new Napoli player.
Alisson announcement approaching for Napoli
The 23-year-old is expected to join Antonio Conte’s side on an initial loan deal until the end of the 2025-26 season at a cost of €3m. There will also be a future option to buy for a set fee of €20m included in the deal.
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Alisson Santos of Sporting Clube de Portugal battles for possession with Leonardo Spinazzola of SSC Napoli during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between SSC Napoli and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Alisson had his medical in Rome immediately after arriving in the Italian capital. He is now expected to travel to Naples to train with his new teammates for the first time.
Alisson has made 18 appearances in the Portuguese top flight so far this season and also has three goals from eight Champions League appearances to his name in 2025-26.
Manchester City reportedly have Xabi Alonso, Enzo Maresca, and Cesc Fabregas as their three main candidates to replace Pep Guardiola.
According to the Telegraph, it is considered increasingly likely that this will be Guardiola’s final season in charge at the Etihad Stadium.
Some sources at Man City have seemingly denied this, but the Telegraph still suggest there are those who feel the club may already be planning for his potential replacement.
It won’t be easy for anyone to follow in Guardiola’s footsteps, with the Spanish tactician winning six Premier League titles, the Champions League and other major honours during his ten years in English football.
Manchester City looking at Xabi Alonso as potential Pep Guardiola replacement
It seems one name high up on City’s list is former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen manager Alonso, according to the Telegraph.
The 44-year-old was recently sacked by Real, but previously did superb work at Leverkusen, so will surely not be out of work for too long.
Xabi Alonso to Manchester City? (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
The Italian tactician did a decent job at Stamford Bridge and his dismissal perhaps looked a bit harsh, so he could be a good option to consider, as he’s also someone who’s previously worked under Guardiola.
Guardiola record
Won
Drawn
Lost
Win %
Barcelona
179
47
21
72.47
Bayern Munich
121
21
19
75.16
Manchester City
400
83
87
70.18
Cesc Fabregas an outsider for the Man City job?
The Telegraph also name an interesting possible candidate in the form of Como boss Fabregas, who is improving his reputation all the time.
The 38-year-old has over-achieved with Como and one imagines he’ll surely land a bigger job at some point, even if it arguably looks a bit soon for him to be taking on a challenge as big as replacing Guardiola.
City fans will probably be leaning towards Alonso at this stage, but also their main wish will surely be for Guardiola to stay for at least a year or two longer if possible.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sent what sounds like a pretty strong and clear message to the club over some Deadline Day business.
The Gunners boss was speaking at his press conference today, and suggested there is an urgent “need” to replace the injured Mikel Merino.
See below for Arteta’s quotes, as posted on X by journalists James Olley and Simon Collings…
Arteta left the door open for Arsenal to make a late move in the market to replace the injured Mikel Merino. Says the club are “actively looking at options” and “when you lose a big player like this, you need to look and we need to do everything we possibly can.”
We’re yet to hear anything more concrete on someone who could replace Merino in midfield, with the Spain international looking like being out for the long-term.
Luckily, Arsenal have just got Kai Havertz back from a serious long-term injury, but the club just haven’t had much good fortune in that department in the last year and a half.
Merino is a quality player who’ll be hard to replace, and if anyone else gets injured between now and May then Arsenal could be in real trouble, so it’s easy to see why Arteta seems to be pushing hard for the club to get someone in before the end of today.
Harvey Elliott now looks increasingly likely to see out the season at Aston Villa, despite uncertainty surrounding his long-term future at Villa Park, according to BBC.
The attacking midfielder joined Villa on loan from Liverpool last summer, but his situation appeared to stall earlier in the campaign after manager Unai Emery decided against pursuing a permanent deal.
Emery had publicly indicated as far back as October that Villa did not intend to trigger their option to buy the 22-year-old, a decision that saw Elliott fall out of the matchday picture for an extended period.
However, circumstances have shifted dramatically in recent weeks.
Injuries change the equation for Aston Villa
A growing injury crisis has forced Villa to reassess their options. Midfield anchor Boubacar Kamara has been ruled out for the remainder of the season, while key figures John McGinn and Youri Tielemans are both facing lengthy spells on the sidelines.
With Villa competing across multiple competitions, Emery has been left short on depth and experience in attacking and midfield areas.
As a result, Elliott has been recalled into action, featuring in Villa’s last two matches after not playing since October 2.
Villa have a £35m clause to sign Elliott permanently
Harvey Elliott in action for Aston Villa (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Elliott’s appearances are also being closely monitored for contractual reasons.
The Liverpool loanee is just three games away from triggering a £35 million transfer clause tied to his loan agreement.
While Villa previously appeared reluctant to activate that option, the renewed involvement raises questions about how carefully his minutes will now be managed.
Liverpool, for their part, remain attentive to Elliott’s situation.
While Aston Villa may have decided months ago against making Elliott’s move permanent, the realities of injuries and fixture congestion have brought him back into the fold.
Elliott now has an opportunity to reassert his value in claret and blue.
Antonio Conte collected the Panchina d’Oro award for the best Serie A coach in 2024-25, with Enzo Maresca picking up an accolade for his success at Chelsea.
The Panchina d’Oro award, organised by FIGC, took place in Florence today, Monday, February 2, 2026.
Conte the best Serie A coach in 2024-25
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Antonio Conte, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SSC Napoli at Juventus Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Coaches from all Italian football divisions voted Conte, the Serie A title winner in 2024-25 with Napoli, as the best Serie A coach for last season.
Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini, who was at Atalanta last term, finished second, while Como’s Cesc Fabregas ranked third.
“I receive this award with immense pleasure, because it comes from fellow coaches, who know what it takes to be a coach every day,” Conte said, as quoted by Gazzetta.
“I want to share this award with my footballers, the staff and everyone at Napoli.”
Maresca wins ‘Panchina d’Oro speciale’
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – JULY 13: Enzo Maresca, Head Coach of Chelsea FC, celebrates with the FIFA Club World Cup trophy after their team’s victory following the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Final match between Chelsea FC and Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium on July 13, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
Former Chelsea coach Maresca received the ‘Panchina d’Oro Speciale’ for his achievements with the Blues last season, especially the victory in the Club World Cup.
“To represent the Italian school abroad is a big responsibility,” Maresca said.
“In Italy, the true value of the Italian coaching school is often underestimated, despite its deep and enduring importance.”
Former Cremonese coach Giovanni Stroppa won the Panchina d’Oro for the 2024-25 Serie B campaign, followed by Fabio Grosso of Sassuolo and Filippo Inzaghi of Pisa, now at Palermo.
Maresca left Chelsea on January 1, 2026, by mutual agreement, so the Italian tactician is currently without a club.
Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti insists the Bianconeri won’t sign Mauro Icardi as Randal Kolo Muani is their ‘only’ target on deadline day.
Juventus continue to chase a centre forward, but are running out of time as the winter transfer window ends today at 20:00 CET (19:00 GMT).
The Bianconeri have held talks with several strikers in recent weeks, including Jean-Philippe Mateta, Youssen En-Nesyri, Mauro Icardi and PSG-owned Kolo Muani.
Spalletti: ‘I’ve talked about Kolo Muani’
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – JANUARY 28: Randal Kolo Muani of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Tottenham Hotspur at Frankfurt Stadion on January 28, 2026 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
The French forward is currently on loan at Tottenham, and Spurs seem reluctant to release him. When asked whether Juventus would try to sign Icardi today, Spalletti replied: “You talk about Icardi, I’ve talked about Kolo Muani. If you ask me, is [Icardi] strong? I answer yes. If you ask whether we’d sign him, I say no. It’s you talking about it [Icardi]. You haven’t talked to me about this.”
The interview was conducted by Sport Mediaset on Sunday, following Juventus’ 4-1 win against Parma.
Spalletti asks journalist: ‘Can you play as a centre-forward?’
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“The target is either Kolo Muani or you,” Spalletti told the journalist.
“Can you play as a centre-forward?”
When the reporter admitted he couldn’t, Spalletti shrugged and left the interview, saying: “Then only Kolo Munai.”
Juventus have welcomed winger Jeremie Boga from OGC Nice and are expected to announce right-back Emil Holm from Bologna today.
Recent reports claim that Inter have rejected a last-minute deadline day approach from Lazio for Italy international midfielder Davide Frattesi.
Inter reject Lazio offer for Frattesi
With just a few hours of the January transfer window remaining, there have been reports that Lazio are attempting to lure the Roman-born Frattesi back to the capital. The Nerazzurri midfielder was previously on Lazio’s books as a youngster before switching to join Roma’s academy in 2014.
According to reports from Gianluca Di Marzio and various others, Inter have rejected an offer totalling €30m from Lazio for Frattesi on Monday.
MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 26: Davide Frattesi in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match against Atletico de Madrid at Estadio Metropolitano on November 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The Biancocelesti were reportedly seeking a loan deal with a conditional obligation to buy. Inter, however, are maintaining their stance that Frattesi is not for sale in January.
Still, the former Sassuolo midfielder has not been short of suitors this month. There had been reports that Premier League side Nottingham Forest, but that move has since fallen through as the Nerazzurri have been unable to secure a deal for a suitable replacement.
Wilson is not the biggest name, so some fans might be disappointed if this ends up being the full extent of their club’s business today.
Still, the 18-year-old has already played regularly for Hearts and at senior international level with Scotland, so he could be someone with a very bright future in the game.
James Wilson transfer: Where will the Arsenal and Tottenham target end up?
We should know before too long if Wilson ends up leaning towards Arsenal or Tottenham.
James Wilson applauds the Hearts fans
As per BBC Sport‘s information as well, the young forward is not considered a first-team signing, so even if the deal goes through it could be a while before his new fans get to see him play.
Wilson may well be tempted by Arsenal as they’re the bigger name and clearly heading in a more positive direction at the moment.
The Gunners also have a famously strong academy, so that could factor into his thinking.
Chelsea winger Tyrique George is reportedly having a medical with Everton ahead of a potential Deadline Day loan with a permanent transfer option.
The 19-year-old attacker has long looked like a big prospect coming through at Stamford Bridge, though he’s struggled to hold down a regular first-team place.
George now looks set to join Everton, with the final touches on the move taking place just hours before tonight’s transfer deadline.
See below for Ben Jacobs’ post on X about George’s medical with the Toffees…
Tyrique George set for an Everton medical ahead of a loan move from Chelsea. Deal includes a buy option.? pic.twitter.com/9wZOHK0OeV
Newcastle United have reportedly been offered the chance to bring Jhon Durán back to the Premier League before the transfer deadline, as intermediaries explore options for the forward’s future.
According to TEAMtalk, the Magpies are among several English clubs made aware of Durán’s availability amid uncertainty surrounding his current loan spell in Turkey.
The 22-year-old striker is currently on loan at Fenerbahçe from Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, but the move has not gone entirely to plan.
Durán has managed just three goals in 10 league appearances, struggling to build momentum after missing nearly two months of the season through injury before returning in November.
That lack of rhythm has prompted discussions over a potential change of scenery before the window closes.
Newcastle United hold interest in Durán
Newcastle are understood to be monitoring the situation closely, with the club open to opportunistic additions if the right profile becomes available.
However, Premier League sides face stiff competition from France. Lille are currently regarded as frontrunners, with talks ongoing over a potential move to Ligue 1 ahead of the deadline.
Lille’s interest is said to be driven by their track record of developing young attackers and providing a platform for players to rediscover form.
According to Luke Edwards of the Telegraph, the Magpies see this story as “stupid” and “complete rubbish”, so that surely puts all that to bed.
See below for Edwards’ post on X, which came not that long after a surprise claim being made by Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg…
Newcastle United have described stories claiming Arsenal have made a late attempt to sign midfielder Sandro Tonali as “stupid” and “complete rubbish.” But other than that, it’s a good story. #nufc
Sandro Tonali to Arsenal transfer story from earlier today…
And see below for Plettenberg’s post about Arsenal exploring a Deadline Day move for Tonali, even if he added that it looked unlikely due to Newcastle not wanting to sell the Italy international and rejecting an initial approach…
?? EXCLUSIVE | Arsenal are exploring a surprising Deadline Day move for Sandro #Tonali.
It is worth noting that no other sources today have claimed Arsenal made any kind of contact over signing Tonali.
The Gunners may well have some kind of interest in Tonali, who is a top midfielder who’s proven himself in the Premier League.
Still, it’s also a position Arsenal have a lot of good options in, so it’s not clear the 25-year-old would definitely get a lot of opportunities to start games for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Could Newcastle struggle to keep Sandro Tonali?
Newcastle lost Alexander Isak to Liverpool in the summer when a big enough bid came in, so could we see something similar happen with Tonali in the near future?
Sandro Tonali looks on during Newcastle training (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Tonali has also seemed pretty happy with life at St James’ Park, and there doesn’t seem an obvious reason for him to give up on Eddie Howe’s promising project.
Still, similarly to Isak, if Tonali attracts interest from even bigger clubs then perhaps he’ll push for a move, and that would give Newcastle something to think about.
For now, there’s little sign of any of that happening.
Fabrizio Romano says a verbal agreement is in place between Chelsea and West Ham for the transfer of Axel Disasi.
According to the Italian journalist, West Ham are now just waiting for Disasi’s final answer as a deal looks very close to being finalised.
It remains to be seen, however, if the French central defender will definitely decide to give his personal green light to the move to the London Stadium.
For now, it looks like this deal is mostly done, with Romano reporting that the key next step is Disasi’s answer to West Ham…
??? West Ham are waiting for Axel Disasi’s final answer on the transfer after verbal agreement with Chelsea over loan deal. pic.twitter.com/HDnjQgRjvI
Still, the 27-year-old may well feel that he could do better than West Ham, who are enduring a difficult season and facing a serious fight to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
The Hammers are currently in 18th place in the Premier League table, six points behind both Nottingham Forest and Leeds United.
Disasi could become a key player for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side and help them stay up, but it makes sense that he’s perhaps unsure about the risk.
If West Ham do end up going down, Disasi will surely find it harder to find another club when it comes to the end of his loan in the summer.
It would probably look better for Disasi to wait for offers from elsewhere, or perhaps to even stay and fight for his place at Chelsea, even if it seems unlikely to get a look-in unless there’s a major injury crisis.
Tyrell Malacia’s transfer away from Manchester United has reportedly collapsed at the last minute after a dramatic intervention from Jason Wilcox.
The Red Devils left-back had been on his way to join an unspecified Turkish club, and was keen for the transfer to go through.
However, as reported below by Joost Blaauwhof on X, Wilcox called Malacia to cancel the deal late on, leaving the player frustrated as he wanted to leave…
NIEUWS: Bizarre deadlineday voor Tyrell Malacia. Linksback was onderweg naar Istanbul, toen Jason Wilcox (technisch directeur) hem tóch terugriep naar Manchester United. Beleidsmaker van gedachten veranderd, tot frustratie van Nederlander, die transfer wilde. Zo meer @VI_nl ?? pic.twitter.com/y115nzX7X7
Blaauwhof posted: “NEWS: Bizarre deadline day for Tyrell Malacia. The left-back was on his way to Istanbul when Jason Wilcox (technical director) suddenly called him back to Manchester United after all. Decision-maker changed his mind, to the frustration of the Dutchman, who wanted the transfer.”
Manchester United make surprise Tyrell Malacia transfer decision
Tyrell Malacia in action for Manchester United (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
The 26-year-old has played only 48 games in four years with United, and 39 of those came in his first season.
Perhaps the recent injury to Patrick Dorgu means MUFC are keen to keep Malacia around for squad depth, but it’s still hard to imagine him getting much playing time between now and the end of the season.
The Netherlands international previously looked like a top talent at former club Feyenoord, but injuries have hampered his progress at United and his career seems to be in major disarray now.
Malacia would surely have benefited from being allowed to leave and start a new challenge elsewhere, but he’s been surprisingly called back now and he’ll most likely just spend the next few months warming the bench and enduring further damage to his career.
Crystal Palace’s plans to reshape their attack have suffered a setback, with Angers forward Sidiki Cherif choosing a move to Fenerbahçe instead of a switch to Selhurst Park.
The development was first reported by Florian Plettenberg, showing Palace’s increasingly urgent search for a new centre-forward as the transfer deadline approaches.
Cherif had emerged as a leading candidate to strengthen Palace’s attacking options, with head coach Oliver Glasner keen to secure a reliable replacement for Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Palace were understood to have made significant progress, including reaching an agreement on personal terms with the Angers striker.
However, the Premier League side have now been beaten to the deal by Fenerbahçe, who moved decisively to wrap up negotiations.
Fenerbahçe win race to sign Sidiki Cherif
A verbal agreement has reportedly been struck between Angers and Fenerbahçe, with Cherif set to arrive in Istanbul initially on loan, accompanied by an obligation to buy.
The structure of the deal appears to have appealed to both the French club and the player, offering regular football and a prominent role in a side competing for domestic honours and European qualification.
For Palace, the missed opportunity is a blow, particularly given the timing. With Mateta edging closer to an exit, the Eagles are working against the clock to secure a new striker before the window shuts at on Monday.
Mateta exit is forcing Palace to sign a new attacker
Sidiki Cherif in action for Angers.
Mateta is widely expected to complete a move to AC Milan, having made it clear he is seeking a new challenge.
His potential departure leaves Palace short of proven options through the middle, increasing the importance of landing a replacement who can adapt quickly to Premier League demands.
Sky Sport Italia reports that Juventus have resumed talks for Jean-Philippe Mateta, but the Bianconeri propose different terms than Milan.
Juventus have resumed talks with Crystal Palace to sign Mateta, according to Sky Sport Italia.
Juventus resume Mateta talks
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 20: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace celebrates with the fans during an Emirates FA Cup trophy parade after the Premier League match between Crystal Palace FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC at Selhurst Park on May 20, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
The French striker has undergone medical tests in London ahead of a potential permanent move to Milan, but the examinations have highlighted a knee issue that the Rossoneri doctor will evaluate in person in Paris today.
Juventus were already in talks with Mateta at the beginning of the January window, and according to Sky, the Bianconeri now made a new attempt to bring the Frenchman to Turin.
Juventus initially tried to sign Mateta on loan with an option to buy that could become mandatory if certain conditions were met.
Mateta waits for Milan’s decision
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 04: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace looks on prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Crystal Palace at St James’ Park on January 04, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Milan, on the other hand, have shaken hands with Crystal Palace over a permanent transfer for circa €30m, but the Rossoneri have yet to make a final decision on whether to sign the 28-year-old. According to Sky, Juventus would only have a chance to get Mateta if Milan eventually decide against signing him.
Surely, both Serie A giants have little time to complete a deal as the January transfer window ends today at 20:00 CET (19:00 GMT).
According to the latest updates, Christopher Nkunku is set to stay on with Milan on the final day of the January transfer window, despite previous claims that he could leave the club in order to facilitate the arrival of Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace.
Milan are still active in the final hours of the January transfer window, but there are still doubts surrounding the signing of Mateta, who has had concerns raised regarding his knee during his Rossoneri medical.
While the Mateta decision hangs in the balance, the latest reports from Sky Sport Italia claim that Nkunku is set to stay on with Milan beyond Monday’s transfer deadline.
ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Christopher Nkunku celebrates after scoring their team’s second goal from the penalty spot during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Hellas Verona FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 28, 2025 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
What Allegri says about Nkunku and Milan’s transfer business
Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri has also had an opportunity to comment on the transfer window and Nkunku specifically during his most recent pre-match press conference.
“Fortunately, the transfer window ends tonight,” Allegri said (via TMW).
“The club is thinking about the market. So far, Fullkrug has come in and I’m very happy. We think that Gimenez could be like a new signing, as will Leao and Pulisic, whom we hope to get back on track in the next 10 days. We have to focus on who we have. The boys are doing well and we have to continue.”
ITALY – JANUARY 18: Niclas Fullkrug of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
And on Nkunku, Allegri added: “I think he has all the qualities to be able to grow. There are players who come in and do well immediately and then there are others who, temporarily, need a bit more time to fit in.
“He’s already scored goals and we’re happy with him, but like everyone, he can always improve.”
Milan are still yet to make a final decision on Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta heading into the final hours of the January transfer window, but the Rossoneri are still hoping to get the deal over the line according to the latest updates.
What’s going on with Mateta, Milan and Crystal Palace?
According to reports over the weekend, Milan and Crystal Palace have agreed a fee in excess of €30m for France international Mateta, who has eight Premier League goals to his name from 23 outings this term.
The Frenchman was not called up to Oliver Glasner’s squad for Sunday’s 1-1 draw between Palace and Nottingham Forest in the Premier League as a result of the transfer dealings.
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 06: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace runs for the ball during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Crystal Palace FC and AZ Alkmaar at Selhurst Park on November 06, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Palace have also secured an agreement for Mateta’s replacement: Jorgen Strand Larsen, who is expected to cost just shy of €50m from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That meant that Crystal Palace gave their approval for Mateta to have his medical with Milan, but that is where further issues have arisen.
According to reports from various outlets on Sunday, an issue regarding Mateta’s knee has arisen during his medical test, which has left Milan wanting further diagnostic tests before proceeding with the transfer.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 18: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Crystal Palace FC and KuPS Kuopio at Selhurst Park on December 18, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
It is a situation similar to the one involving Victor Boniface in the summer. The Nigeria international arrived in Italy for medicals with the Rossoneri over the summer, but was later told to return home after fears relating to his medical history, specifically regarding his previous knee injuries.
According to the latest updates, Milan have sent their own medical staff over to inspect the issue involving Mateta’s knee, and further updates are expected to arrive later on Monday.
There have also been suggestions that Juventus, who are also on the hunt for a new striker on deadline day, could also be poised to make a move for Mateta in the final stages of the window. The Bianconeri are said to be interested in a loan with a potential obligation to buy.
Massimiliano Allegri insists that it is ‘not right’ for him to comment on developments regarding Milan target Jean-Philippe Mateta, and insists that he is ‘happy’ with the players that he currently has at his disposal.
Allegri was given an opportunity to comment on the Mateta matter, Milan’s transfer business and the condition of his current squad during his pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday’s Serie A match against Bologna.
Allegri on Maignan, Mateta and Milan injuries
At the beginning of his pre-match press conference on Monday, Allegri was asked what he makes of Milan finally sorting a new contract extension for goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
He said: “I’m very happy because Milan have secured one of the best goalkeepers in Europe. He’s very happy, he’s always said that he wants to stay. The club has done the job in the right way to ensure that Maignan stays at Milan. Now let’s think about tomorrow.”
Allegri was unwilling to comment on Milan’s ongoing attempts to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace, though: “As I’ve always said, I’m only talking about players registered to AC Milan. It’s also out of respect, it’s not right to talk about players from other clubs.”
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 06: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace runs for the ball during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Crystal Palace FC and AZ Alkmaar at Selhurst Park on November 06, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Allegri went on to give a medical update ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Bologna, confirming that Alexis Saelemaekers is set to miss out.
“Saelemaekers won’t be there, that adductor pain is still bothering him. He made himself available in Rome, but had a bit of a setback. Leao is managing his pubis issue but will be there. The others are all alive and well so we’ll take them to Bologna.”
Assessing the task at hand at the Dall’Ara, Allegri added: “It all depends on what happens on the pitch tomorrow. Bologna are coming off a very good victory in the Europa League but have only won one of their last 10.
“We’ll go up against a team that will want to beat Milan and that will want to show these negative results are a thing of the past. We need a very serious performance.”
Allegri was again asked for his thoughts on Milan’s business on what is the final day of the January transfer window.
“We’re lucky to have these two games, tomorrow and in 10 days’ time. We will have time to fully recover Pulisic, Leao and Fullkrug, that toe will be glued back sooner or later. We’re approaching the return of Gimenez as well, who will be useful for us for the end of the season. I’m happy with the guys I have at my disposal.
“We’ve done good things so far, but it’s not good enough for our final goal. Juventus have come closer, Roma are on the attack, Como as well. We can’t lose sight of the fact that the hard work we’ve already put in could be thrown away in a short space of time. What’s done is done, but we have to conquer tomorrow as well.”
Two Serie A clubs have taken the decision to part ways with their head coaches over the last two days, as Alberto Gilardino has been relieved of his duties at Pisa and Paolo Zanetti has been sacked as head coach of Hellas Verona on Monday morning.
Gilardino sacked by Pisa
Pisa announced on Sunday evening that they have parted company with head coach Gilardino, who took charge of the club at the beginning of the campaign on a two-year contract.
“Pisa SC announced that it has communicated its desire to change the technical guidance of the team despite the will and professionalism shown by Alberto Gilardino,” read a statement on the club website.
PISA, ITALY – OCTOBER 30: Alberto Gilardino manager of Pisa Sporting Club reacts during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and SS Lazio at Arena Garibaldi on October 30, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The final blow for Gilardino came in the form of a 3-1 defeat at home against Sassuolo on Saturday afternoon. Pisa have only won one Serie A match all season: a 1-0 victory over Cremonese in early November.
Gilardino leaves the club in 19th place in the league table with 14 points from 23 games. They sit four points off Lecce in 17th.
Zanetti sacked by Verona
Hellas Verona have also announced on Monday morning that they have taken the decision to part ways with head coach Zanetti.
VERONA, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Paolo Zanetti, Head Coach of Hellas Verona, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Atalanta BC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on December 06, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“Hellas Verona FC announces that it has relieved Paolo Zanetti of his duties as head coach of the First Team,” Verona confirmed in a statement.
“The Gialloblu thanks Mr. Zanetti and his staff for the work carried out over the past season and a half and wishes them all the best for the continuation of their professional careers.
“Today’s training session will be led by Primavera coach Paolo Sammarco.”
Verona were soundly beaten 4-0 by Cagliari over the weekend and have not won in Serie A since their 2-1 win over Fiorentina back in December.
Zanetti leaves the club in 20th place in the league table, like Gilardino, also on 14 points after 23 matches.
Leeds United could be preparing one of the most ambitious moves of their recent history, with reports suggesting the Yorkshire club are keeping close tabs on Endrick, the highly rated young striker owned by Real Madrid.
With Leeds’ pursuit of attacking reinforcements hitting obstacles this winter, attention is already beginning to shift towards the summer transfer window.
The Whites had been keen on landing Jorgen Strand Larsen of Wolves, a player strongly admired by head coach Daniel Farke.
However, that move now looks increasingly unlikely, with Crystal Palace reportedly pricing Leeds out of a deal.
Rather than forcing a short-term solution, Leeds appear content to remain patient and that long-term thinking could open the door to a bold attempt to lure Endrick to Elland Road, according to Fichajes.
Endrick’s situation at Madrid and Lyon
Despite arriving in Madrid amid huge expectations, Endrick has found opportunities limited this season in a star-studded squad.
With minutes hard to come by, the Brazilian teenager was loaned to Olympique Lyon last month for the remainder of the campaign, a move designed to accelerate his development through regular first-team football.
Both Leeds United and Sunderland are monitoring Endrick’s progress in France closely.
The belief among scouts is that his combination of pace, movement, and technical quality could allow him to make an immediate impact in English football, while still possessing significant room for growth.
Endrick applauds the Real Madrid fans (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
From Leeds’ perspective, the appeal is clear. With backing from the 49ers group and a renewed focus on recruitment strategy, the club are keen to identify players who can both elevate performance levels and retain strong resale value.
Endrick would be the ideal ambitious signing that they need to elevate their profile.
While Los Blancos still value Endrick’s potential, competition for places and financial considerations could make a permanent sale tempting, particularly with several European clubs tracking his situation.
Whether Leeds can realistically convince Endrick to choose Elland Road over more established European destinations remains uncertain.
However, the very fact the club are being linked with a player of his calibre speaks volumes about their ambition.
Arsenal have begun exploratory discussions with Heart of Midlothian over a potential move for highly rated teenage attacker James Wilson, as the club continue to strengthen their pipeline of elite young talent.
The development is revealed by respected transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, who reports that an initial loan-based structure is currently being discussed between the two clubs.
At just 18 years old, Wilson has already achieved a milestone few players reach so early in their careers, having earned senior international caps for the Scotland national football team.
That rapid rise has put him firmly on the radar of clubs beyond Scotland, with Arsenal now positioning themselves to secure closer access to his development.
The reason why James Wilson appeals to Arsenal
Wilson’s versatility is a major factor behind Arsenal’s interest. Comfortable operating both as a central striker and on the right wing, he offers tactical flexibility Mikel Arteta wants.
The Gunners value forwards who can interchange positions, press intelligently, and contribute in multiple phases of play, qualities Wilson has already shown flashes of despite limited senior exposure.
James Wilson of Heart of Midlothian FC (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Wilson’s reputation was significantly enhanced during last year’s UEFA European Under-21 Championship Qualifying campaign, where he emerged as one of Scotland’s best performers.
The forward scored four goals in six appearances, catching the attention of scouts across Europe with his sharp finishing and confidence on the international stage.
That tournament run is widely viewed as a key reason Arsenal accelerated their interest.
From Hearts’ perspective, the preference for a loan-based arrangement reflects a desire to protect Wilson’s long-term development.
The Scottish club are keen to ensure he continues to receive meaningful minutes while benefiting from exposure to a higher-level training environment.
Arsenal, meanwhile, see a loan as a low-risk pathway to monitor his progress closely before committing to any permanent move.
Various reports on the final day of the transfer window claim that Premier League leaders Arsenal are plotting a surprise move for Italy international Sandro Tonali.
What to make of Tonali links to Arsenal?
According to reports from the likes of Florian Plettenberg, Indykalia and others, Arsenal are interested in the Newcastle United midfielder, but sealing a deal with less than 12 hours of the transfer window remaining is a difficult task.
Some reports claim that Tonali’s agent, Beppe Riso, is the one pushing for the Arsenal move.
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – OCTOBER 01: #8 of Newcastle United looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between R. Union Saint-Gilloise and Newcastle United FC at RSC Anderlecht Stadium on October 01, 2025 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Omar Havana/Getty Images)
Newcastle reportedly value the former Milan midfielder in the region of €115m (£100m). The Magpies spent a fee reported to be in the region of €70m to sign Tonali from Milan back in the summer of 2023.
Other reports in the UK, however, claim that the Arsenal links are ‘wide of the mark’. Tonali remains under contract until the summer of 2029 with the option for a further 12 months at St. James’ Park, therefore it would take a ‘sensational’ offer to convince Newcastle into selling.
It is understood that Newcastle are not willing to sell Italy international as things stand.
Daniele Rugani is reportedly closing in on a deadline day move to Fiorentina, but how much will Juventus earn by letting go of the 31-year-old centre-back?
Juventus set to sell Rugani to Fiorentina
According to reports from various outlets including Sky Sport Italia and Tuttosport, Fiorentina are closing in on the signing of 31-year-old Juventus centre-back Ruganin on loan with a potential obligation to buy in the event that the Viola avoid relegation to Serie B by the end of the 2025-26 season.
According to the latest updates from Tuttosport, Juventus will receive a loan fee of €500,000 and in the event that the transfer is made permanent, they will be entitled to a further €2m.
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 08: Saul Coco of Torino FC competes for the ball with Daniele Rugani during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Torino FC at on November 08, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Rugani is expected to put pen to paper on an initial two-and-a-half year contract with the option to extend for a further 12 months. He will earn roughly the same amount that he currently does in Turin.
Rugani was not in the matchday squad for Juventus’s 4-1 victory away against Parma on Sunday night, and Monday’s reports claim that he has already bid farewell to his Bianconeri teammates ahead of his Fiorentina switch.
It now remains to be seen whether a deal will be officially completed before the January transfer deadline, which hits at 19.00 GMT.
Inter captain Lautaro Martinez sent a public apology on behalf of the club to Emil Audero, who was struck by a firework during Sunday’s Serie A match between the Nerazzurri and Cremonese.
Inter picked up a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Lautaro and Piotr Zielinski, but the game was temporarily halted five minutes into the second half in concerning scenes at the Stadio Zini.
In the 50th minute, a firework was thrown onto the pitch from the area of the stadium containing the travelling Inter supporters. The firework landed on the pitch and exploded right next to Audero, who was later seen with a cut and burn mark around his knee.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
The Cremonese goalkeeper was cleared to continue and decided to stay on the pitch despite the troubling ordeal.
Lautaro apologises to Audero on behalf of Inter
Inter captain Lautaro was among the first to see to Audero immediately after the firework had exploded, and later went on to express his apologies to his former teammate.
“These things can’t happen,” Lautaro told DAZN after full-time.
“There’s a personal risk. Footballers are human too. We put on a show that’s watched all over the world, so we have to be careful about these things.
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 04: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We apologise to Audero, who was a winner with us when we claimed the second star, and we apologise to all the Cremonese fans. These things must not happen.”
Lautaro who was awarded the player of the match: “This award will go in my daughter’s room,” he said. “It’s her birthday today. Now I hope to get back to Milan quickly and see her while she’s awake. The award and this shirt are for her.”
Roma will have to do without Manu Kone and Paulo Dybala when they take on Udinese away from home in Serie A on Monday night.
The hosts are coming into Monday night’s game off the back of a 3-1 victory away against Hellas Verona last week, which also fell in the Monday night slot. That win temporarily took Kosta Runjaic’s side into the top half of the Serie A table, but they have since dropped back into 11th on goal difference.
Roma are in need of a victory if they are to jump back into the Champions League positions. They were held to a 1-1 draw by Milan last time out in Serie A and drew with Panathinaikos by the same scoreline on Thursday night.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Lorenzo Pellegrini of AS Roma celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s first goal from the penalty-spot during the Serie A match between AS Roma and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on January 25, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Pre-match reports suggest that Kosta Runjaic will go with the same starting XI as the one that beat Hellas Verona last week. That is with Keinan Davis at centre-forward and Jurgen Ekkelenkamp and Arthur Atta behind him.
The Giallorossi are without Kone and Dybala. They are able to rely on Donyell Malen and Robinio Vaz again, both of whom were ineligible to feature in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Malen is expected to lead the line for the Giallorossi with Matias Soule and Lorenzo Pellegrini also providing support in attack in the absence of Dybala.
Kick-off is due at 19.45 GMT.
Udinese vs. Roma: Probable line-ups
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Leicester City are exploring a move for Newcastle United defender Jamaal Lascelles, as the Foxes look to inject leadership and defensive solidity into a season that has not gone according to plan, as reported by BBC.
With the club struggling to find consistency in the Championship, caretaker manager Andy King is understood to be pushing for reinforcements who can provide both immediate impact and dressing-room authority.
Lascelles is approaching the final months of his contract at St James’ Park and has long been expected to move on at the end of the season.
Leicester’s interest reflects a growing belief that experience, rather than youth alone, is required to arrest their slide and mount a credible push up the table.
Newcastle United defender is known for his leadership
Since arriving from Nottingham Forest in 2014, Lascelles has been a central figure in Newcastle’s modern history.
The 32-year-old has amassed 253 appearances for the club, captaining them through periods of transition, promotion battles, and their eventual re-establishment as a Premier League force.
His organisational skills, aerial strength, and no-nonsense defending have made him a respected figure on and off the pitch.
However, his role has diminished significantly this season under Eddie Howe.
With Newcastle investing heavily in their defensive unit and competition for places intensifying, Lascelles has been limited to just two Premier League appearances, totalling only 19 minutes of league action.
While still valued for his professionalism, he is no longer a regular part of Howe’s matchday plans.
Jamaal Lascelles, the man who stood up for Newcastle United in its hour of need.
Made captain aged 22. Lived the journey from the Championship to the Champions League.
Jamaal Lascelles of Newcastle United (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
For Leicester, the attraction is clear. The Foxes have lacked defensive stability and leadership during a turbulent campaign, and Lascelles’ profile fits the brief of a short-term solution.
Beyond his on-field attributes, his experience of promotion battles and high-pressure environments could prove invaluable to a squad attempting to rediscover belief.
Leicester view him as a potential organiser at the back, capable of helping younger defenders through difficult spells.
Rather than chasing potential alone, the Foxes appear focused on acquiring proven leadership to stabilise their season.
For Lascelles, a move could offer regular football and a fresh challenge.
Ivan Toney has reportedly decided against a move to Italy, opting instead to continue his career in the Saudi Pro League as he focuses on securing a place in England’s squad for the upcoming World Cup.
According to The Mirror, the striker has turned down interest from Juventus, believing that remaining where he is gives him the best platform to maintain form, fitness, and visibility at international level.
The 29-year-old forward has enjoyed a productive spell since making the switch to Saudi Arabia, rediscovering the scoring rhythm that once made him one of the Premier League’s most feared strikers.
With regular minutes and a system built to maximise his strengths, Toney is said to feel settled and confident that his current environment offers the ideal preparation for the international stage.
Juventus’ interest in Toney comes from their desire to reinforce the attack before the transfer deadline.
Head coach Luciano Spalletti is eager to add another proven goalscorer as he looks to sustain his side’s impressive domestic form, having overseen eight wins in their last 11 matches across competitions.
The Bianconeri have been actively scanning the market after failing to prise Randal Kolo Muani away from Paris Saint-Germain, with Tottenham Hotspur refusing to terminate the striker’s loan arrangement.
That setback prompted Juventus to explore alternative options, with Toney quickly emerging as an attractive candidate due to his physical presence, penalty-box instincts, and experience at the highest level.
Sources suggest Toney believes his current situation offers clarity and stability, key factors as he looks to convince Tuchel he deserves a place in the England squad this summer.
While some have questioned whether playing outside Europe could impact his international prospects, Toney is reportedly confident that goals will speak louder than league location, especially with England’s attacking options facing stiff competition.
Liverpool have successfully fended off a dramatic late attempt from Manchester United to hijack the transfer of highly rated Rennes defender Jérémy Jacquet, sealing what is increasingly viewed as one of the most strategic defensive signings of the window.
According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, Man United made a last-ditch push in the final hours to tempt Jacquet away from Liverpool, but the move came too late.
By that stage, Liverpool already had a full agreement in place with both the player and Stade Rennais, leaving little room for disruption.
Why Liverpool won the battle for Jérémy Jacquet
Jacquet, 20, has been one of the most talked-about young defenders in Europe in recent weeks, with Chelsea also strongly linked amid their defensive injury concerns.
The French centre-back’s composure in possession, physical presence, and tactical maturity have led many scouts to tip him as a future world-class defender.
Sources close to the deal suggest the Reds outlined a clear pathway to first-team football, backed by a long-term sporting project that appealed strongly to Jacquet and his representatives.
United’s eleventh-hour approach is telling. Despite having several centre-back options in the squad, there is a growing sense inside Old Trafford that defensive depth remains an issue.
One factor believed to have influenced United’s interest is the uncertain future of Harry Maguire, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season.
With Maguire’s contract situation unresolved and potential exits being discussed internally, United appear to be scanning the market for younger, long-term solutions.
Liverpool’s early planning and decisive execution made the difference.
By the time Man United entered the race, Jérémy Jacquet’s future was already mapped out.
Arsenal have emerged as surprise late-window admirers of Sandro Tonali, with reports suggesting the North London club have explored the feasibility of a Deadline Day move for the Newcastle United midfielder.
The development is reported by Sky reporter Florian Plettenberg, who indicated that while interest is genuine, the chances of a deal being completed remain extremely slim at this advanced stage of the transfer window.
Newcastle United have already rejected an initial approach, making their stance clear that Tonali is not for sale.
Arsenal’s enquiry is understood to be driven by fresh injury concerns in midfield, with Mikel Merino now expected to miss a significant period after suffering a suspected broken bone.
While the club have yet to confirm a definitive return date, early indications suggest the injury could sideline the Spaniard for an extended spell.
EXCLUSIVE | Arsenal are exploring a surprising Deadline Day move for Sandro #Tonali.
Arsenal are looking to add depth to their midfield
With Arsenal competing across multiple fronts, Mikel Arteta is eager to ensure his squad remains deep and versatile heading into the decisive phase of the season.
Merino’s injury has reduced options in central midfield, particularly in matches requiring control, intensity, and tactical discipline.
Tonali is viewed internally at Arsenal as a player capable of elevating their midfield immediately
His ability to dictate tempo, cover ground defensively, and contribute in possession makes him an attractive, albeit ambitious, target.
While Arsenal technically still have time to test Newcastle’s resolve with another approach, the likelihood of Tonali swapping St James’ Park for the Emirates before the deadline appears remote.
Reports in Italy claim that Juventus are considering a last-minute swoop for Atletico Madrid striker Alexander Sorloth with less than 24 hours of the January transfer window left to go.
Where Juventus stand with Kolo Muani, PSG and Tottenham
According to reports from Gianluca Di Marzio and Sky Sport Italia late on Sunday evening, Juventus are still keen to add another striker to Luciano Spalletti’s transfer ranks on the final day of the winter window.
The most recent update claims that Juventus are still hoping that a deal for last season’s loanee Randal Kolo Muani comes off, despite reported reluctance from his current loan club Tottenham Hotspur.
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – JANUARY 28: Randal Kolo Muani of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Tottenham Hotspur at Frankfurt Stadion on January 28, 2026 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Paris Saint-Germain, Kolo Muani’s parent club, are reportedly prepared to send him back to Juventus, but Tottenham are currently unwilling to terminate their loan agreement in order to facilitate that move.
If the Kolo Muani deal were to open up, he would still be Juventus’s first choice on deadline day according to Sunday evening’s report.
However, the Bianconeri are also evaluating options elsewhere.
Last-minute considerations for Sorloth and Icardi
Di Marzio reports that Atletico Madrid’s Sorloth could potentially be a late option for the Old Lady in the final hours of the transfer window.
MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 29: Alexander Sorloth of Atletico de Madrid celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Atletico de Madrid and Real Oviedo at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on November 29, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
The trouble is that Atletico would prefer to sell Sorloth on a permanent transfer if he is to leave, while Juventus are more interested in a loan deal at this stage of the season.
Sorloth has scored seven goals from 21 appearances in LaLiga so far in 2025-26, and 10 from 30 outings in all competitions. The Norway international has scored 20+ goals in each of his last two full seasons in the Spanish top flight.
Reports elsewhere claim that former Inter talisman Mauro Icardi, who worked under Luciano Spalletti in San Siro, is also among the options on deadline day.
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – April 21: Como linked Mauro Icardi of Galatasaray celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray and Pendikspor at Rams Park on April 21, 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
Icardi has spent the last three-and-a-half years with Galatasaray, where he has scored 61 league goals from 84 appearances, but is out of contract at the end of the 2025-26 campaign.
Juventus have reportedly opened talks with Icardi’s camp, but Galatasaray are said to be seeking significant compensation for the 32-year-old despite his contract status.
Speaking after Juventus’s 4-1 win over Parma on Sunday night, however, Spalletti made it clear that he is not expecting Icardi to sign in January: “He is a good lad, a lovely person, and a fantastic striker. But we don’t want Icardi. Is that ok?
“If I speak highly of someone then it goes all over the headlines that I want to sign him, but it’s not true. We are looking for a player with specific characteristics, if we don’t find him, then we’ll stay as we are. After all, McKennie is as good a hitman as anyone, you saw him again tonight.”
January has brought plenty of transfer action in Serie A, but teams now have less than 12 hours remaining to complete any potential business.
When does the Serie A transfer window close?
The 2026 winter transfer window will close at 19.00 GMT (20.00 CET) on Monday, February 2 in Serie A.
After that point, teams will no longer be able to register any new signings, but will still be able to sanction player departures to leagues whose transfer windows remain open.
Official: Jeremie Boga joins Juventus on loan with an option to buy from OGC Nice.
The Serie A window closes at the same time as most of Europe’s top five leagues. The windows in Serie A, the Premier League, Bundesliga and Ligue 1 all align.
The LaLiga window is set to close a few hours later at 22.59 GMT (23.59 CET). This is also the same for the Eredivisie.
The Saudi Pro League window will also close on Monday night.
The window in Portugal will remain open until Tuesday and the window in Turkey and Greece will remain open until Friday, February 6.
Hit by a firework, the Cremonese goalkeeper stays on the pitch. The hooligan caught: They lost three fingers
Juve say 4
Bianconeri avalanche: Parma beaten, the run continues
Mateta intrigue, he needs a test on his knee
Milan bring in the medics
Corriere dello Sport
Audero shock
Madness: Hit by a firework, miraculously unharmed
Inter risk a fine and a closed Curva
Chivu wins 2-0 in Cremona: Big scare for the goalkeeper
Digos identify the culprit. Marotta: ‘an inane act’. Lautaro: ‘We apologise’. The Argentine with a goal and one from Zielinski push Cristian up to +8 over Milan.
Juve poker: They’re fourth
Entertaining and a spectacle in Parma (1-4): Icardi offered
Taking Holm from Bologna. Spalletti asks for Mauro. Kolo resists. A unique game at the Tardini: A double from Bremer and goals from McKennie and David. Lucia flying: 30 points from 14 games
Milan and Mateta: Decision hangs in the balance
Strand Larsen to Crystal Palace: More tests for the Frenchman today. Nkunku puts up a wall
Zaragoza to Roma: Bayern say yes
Gasp in Udine at 19.45
Left winger, 24 years old, Spanish: Was on loan at Celta Vigo. Mascara could make it a permanent at the end of the season
Here’s Alisson
Di Lorenzo, the cruciate isn’t torn
Napoli: Two bits of news. The Brazilian is coming. Distortion trauma for the captain, consultation today
Lazio, Vecino goes: The idea is Dahl
The Uruguayan goes to Celta. Romagonli risks exclusion
Gilardino sacked: Hjelmberg for Pisa
33-year-old, ex-Palermo
The Swede from Elfsborg takes the team for Friday in Verona, decisive match
Tuttosport
Juve make a splash
Four goals against Parma: Bremer opens and later seals it. McKennie gets his sixth of the season, David closes the party. And, the market unblocks
The starting squad returns, the show starts again, despite the shock-own-goal from Cambiaso. The Brazilian: ‘Spalletti has changed everything’. The Texan: ‘Never scored one like that’. The coach: ‘Thanks, but compliments go to them’. Yildiz alarms: Adductor pain, he asks to be subbed
Boga signed, Holm arriving. Icardi Blitz
The Yildiz vice from Nice. Joao Mario to Bologna
Talks for Maurito. Gala have high hopes, though: Working on it. The ex-Sassoulo man: ;I’ve dreamt of Juve since I was a kid’. The Swede for the right-hand side. Rugani to Fiorentina
Toro: Adams doesn’t forgive, the fans don’t either
Lecce beaten: Baroni saves himself from Cairo in a half-empty stadium
A few thousand fans come in at rock-bottom prices, there were more visitors. The owner criticised: ‘Felt like an away game’. The Granata: ‘We need to win the crowd back’
Inter flying at +8, Firework at Audero
Goals from Lautaro and Zielinski
Cremonese beaten, but a projectile from the Nerazzurri end strikes the goalkeeper. Game interrupted, the club now at risk
Liverpool are closing in on one of their most significant long-term defensive investments, with Jérémy Jacquet travelling to the North West today to complete the final stages of his move from Stade Rennais.
The update was confirmed by respected journalist David Ornstein, who reports that all parties are working to finalise the deal, with a medical scheduled to take place imminently.
The 20-year-old defender is set to sign a long-term contract at Liverpool, committing his future until June 2031, with the option of a further one-year extension.
The agreement shows Liverpool’s confidence in Jacquet’s potential, with the club viewing him as a cornerstone of their defensive plans for the next decade.
Structure of the deal and long term vision
The transfer has been agreed already, with Liverpool set to pay an initial £55 million, plus a further £5 million in add-ons, from the summer of 2026.
This structure reflects Liverpool’s careful financial planning while allowing Rennes to maximise value for one of their most prized assets.
Jacquet’s rise at Rennes has been rapid. Having broken into the first team at a young age, he has earned plaudits for his composure, his talent and his future potential.
Liverpool’s advantage lay in early engagement and clarity. The club presented Jacquet with a clear pathway to first-team involvement, alongside a long-term sporting project built around sustained competitiveness domestically and in Europe.
That vision proved decisive in convincing both the player and Rennes.
Chelsea are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of defensive reinforcements, with French outlet L’Équipe claiming the Blues are preparing a €30 million bid for highly rated Nantes centre-back Tylel Tati.
At just 18 years old, Tati has already emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in Ligue 1.
His performances have reportedly convinced Chelsea that he could become a long-term solution in central defense.
Chelsea need defensive addition in this transfer window
Chelsea’s interest comes amid ongoing defensive concerns at Chelsea, where injuries and inconsistency have exposed a lack of depth at the back.
With the club competing across multiple competitions, strengthening the defensive unit has become a priority during the current window.
However, rather than seeking a short-term fix, Chelsea appear focused on investing in elite young talent with high upside.
Tati fits that profile perfectly, athletic, tactically intelligent, and already experienced at senior level in a demanding league.
Chelsea’s plan would see Tati sign permanently before immediately returning to Nantes on loan.
This approach would allow him to continue his development in a stable environment while Chelsea secure his long-term future, a model the club has used frequently in recent seasons.
The proposed move is also tied to Chelsea’s wider squad management. The club are expected to recall Mamadou Sarr from his loan spell at RC Strasbourg, effectively terminating that arrangement.
In a corresponding move, Argentine youngster Aaron Anselmino is set to head to Strasbourg on loan, ensuring Chelsea continue to provide competitive minutes for their emerging defenders.
This internal reshuffle shows Chelsea’s long-term planning under their current recruitment model, which prioritises youth development, asset value, and future squad balance.
Chelsea have cooled their interest in Jérémy Jacquet following a significant shift in circumstances over the past 48 hours, clearing the path for Liverpool to move decisively for the Rennes defender.
The update was provided by well-connected journalist Ben Jacobs, who revealed how quickly the balance of the deal has swung in Liverpool’s favour.
Jacquet has been on the radar of several Premier League clubs after an impressive rise in Stade Rennais colours, but Liverpool’s groundwork has proven decisive.
The Reds are understood to have opened dialogue more than three weeks ago before ramping up negotiations in recent days, pushing to pre-agree terms and move swiftly towards completion.
That decisive approach has now paid off, with Jacquet’s medical scheduled to take place on Monday.
The club were fully aware of Rennes’ valuation and, crucially, did not see personal terms as a stumbling block. However, developments within Chelsea’s own defensive department have altered the equation.
The impending return of Mamadou Sarr from his loan spell at RC Strasbourg has bolstered depth at centre-back, reducing the urgency to recruit externally.
At the same time, Chelsea remain keen to protect the pathway of highly rated academy talent Josh Acheampong, who is viewed internally as a long-term option rather than a player to be blocked by another young signing.
With no appetite to sell Acheampong and a reluctance to overcrowd the position, Chelsea have now stepped away from the deal entirely, allowing Liverpool a clear run.
Manchester United’s long-term plans could depend on the future of Michael Carrick, with reports suggesting the interim boss is keen to bring Marcus Rashford back to Old Trafford should he be handed the role on a permanent basis.
According to The Telegraph, Carrick views Rashford as a central figure in his vision for the club and believes the forward can still play a decisive role at Man United, despite his ongoing loan spell with Barcelona.
Rashford, now 28, joined Barcelona on loan in search of a fresh start after a turbulent period at United marked by inconsistent form and intense scrutiny.
Marcus Rashford situation and Barcelona interest
While his time in Spain has offered moments of encouragement, the move has always been framed as a temporary solution rather than a definitive break.
Barcelona, however, are reportedly open to making the deal permanent. The Catalan giants are understood to have a €30 million option that would allow them to enter formal negotiations over a long-term transfer to Camp Nou.
Given Barcelona’s ongoing financial constraints, that figure represents a calculated gamble rather than a straightforward commitment, particularly for a player on significant wages.
Barcelona admire Rashford’s versatility and experience at the highest level, any permanent move would depend on outgoing transfers and wage restructuring in the summer.
Marcus Rashford is on loan at Barcelona from Manchester United (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Carrick’s stance suggests that there is belief inside United that Rashford’s best football may still lie ahead and that a change in tactical approach and man-management could unlock it.
As a former teammate, Carrick is well aware of Rashford’s strengths, particularly his pace, directness, and ability to influence big matches.
Manchester City’s relationship with Kalvin Phillips appears to be nearing a decisive breaking point, with the Premier League giants now prepared to sanction his exit in the final hours of the transfer window.
Signed from Leeds United in 2022 for a fee believed to be around £45 million, Phillips’ move to the Etihad has failed to deliver on expectations, and City’s patience has now worn thin, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
Despite being tied to a contract that runs until June 2028, Phillips’ standing within the squad has deteriorated sharply.
His limited game time, coupled with underwhelming loan spells away from Manchester, has significantly reduced his market value, leaving City facing a difficult balancing act between cutting their losses and finding a deal that works financially.
Man City valuation and wage complications
Sources close to the situation suggest City are willing to open negotiations at around £10 million, a stark contrast to their original investment.
There is also an acceptance that the fee could drop further if it helps facilitate a permanent exit.
The biggest stumbling block, however, remains Phillips’ salary.
Earning in the region of £150,000-£165,000 per week, the England international is priced out of contention for many potential suitors.
As a result, City may be forced to subsidise part of his wages to get a deal over the line.
Wolves’ interest centres on a loan deal that would include an option to buy, allowing them to add experience without an immediate financial outlay.
Meanwhile, Burnley are pushing hard in their fight against relegation. Burnley are the only club willing to guarantee Phillips a regular starting role, a factor that could weigh heavily in his decision-making.
For Phillips, this next move may define the remainder of his career. However, another unsuccessful spell could see his standing at the top level erode beyond repair.
Play was temporarily halted at the Stadio Giovanni Zini when a loud explosion was heard and smoke filled the air, as a firework thrown from the away end filled with Inter supporters hit Audero.
He was able to recover and continue the game, despite a small cut and burn mark on his leg.
Inter fans turned on ‘lone wolf’ responsible
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
When a few minutes later, another loud explosion was heard, this time the firework did not land near any players.
A scuffle erupted inside the away end, where the majority of Inter supporters were furious with this outsider, who they felt was risking the suspension of the match as well as being a genuine danger to the players.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Referee Davide Massa talks to the players including Francesco Pio Esposito during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
However, La Gazzetta dello Sport and the Corriere della Sera newspapers claim that the person responsible was identified because he turned up at the hospital in Cremona with a hand injury, having damaged three of his own fingers.
He will be arrested and banned from attending stadiums, but it remains to be seen how the authorities will react, potentially banning all Nerazzurri fans from away matches.
President Beppe Marotta tried to get ahead of the situation by publicly condemning the hooligan responsible and apologising to Cremonese.
Lazio midfielder Matias Vecino is reportedly on his way to join Celta Vigo, which could in turn stall Reda Belahyane’s move to Verona, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was targeted by Bournemouth.
ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma argues with Reda Belahyane of SS Lazio the Serie A match at Stadio Olimpico on September 21, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Silvia Lore/Getty Images)
The 34-year-old is only under contract until June 30, although there is also an option to extend at the end of the season.
He joined the club as a free agent from Inter in the summer of 2022 and made only 14 competitive appearances this term, contributing two assists.
If the Uruguay international does go to Celta Vigo, it means the Serie A side might not therefore release Belahyane for his agreed move to Hellas Verona.
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Fisayo Dele-Bashiru of SS Lazio celebrates a opening goal during the Serie match between Lazio and Atalanta at Stadio Olimpico on December 28, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
This is because it would leave coach Maurizio Sarri short-staffed in midfield if both were to move on at the same time.
Meanwhile, LaLazioSiamoNoi also report that the Biancocelesti turned down a proposal from Bournemouth for midfielder Dele-Bashiru, a loan with option to buy set at €18m.
Luciano Spalletti explains Pierre Kalulu’s positioning at Juventus, reveals a Kenan Yildiz fitness problem, and assures they ‘don’t want Mauro Icardi’ from Galatasaray.
Parma only managed to find the back of the net thanks to a comical Andrea Cambiaso own goal on Alessandro Circati’s cross, while Lois Openda’s effort in stoppages was ruled offside.
Spalletti keeps Juventus on their toes
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“It is better not to look at statistics, as often those come from static situations that do not influence the result, as football is more about sudden changes of pace, duels and second balls, that is where you get into the real game. Whoever is more wide awake there can win the match,” Spalletti told DAZN Italia.
In their post-match interview, Gleison Bremer and Weston McKennie called the coach ‘unique’ and said they’d never worked with anyone quite like him.
“If they said that, naturally it is pleasing. What is fundamental for me is having a rapport with a team that wants to enjoy its football, because that is how you unleash the quality we saw today. They must never be disconnected from the match, so always plugged in and ready for the next situation.
“Every game is a step for us to learn, and it is never definitive, it is a process that keeps going. In any case, I told them they shouldn’t compliment me, but instead praise their teammates. This group has the potential to be a great team, thanks also to that unity and enjoyment they have in training and in a match situation. They combine enthusiasm with determination, no matter what you ask of them.”
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Jonathan David of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Pierre Kalulu pushes forward a lot in Spalletti’s Juventus down the right flank, not dissimilar to Giovanni Di Lorenzo at Napoli, and provided the assist for McKennie’s volley.
“This position is crucial to give alternatives and create some chaos in the marking of the opposition team. He has this ability to start runs at the right time. A team must have this ability to go from tight to stretched out in a moment, knowing when to play short and when to go long,” noted Spalletti.
“As you mentioned Di Lorenzo, I want to send him my best wishes to return to the field as soon as possible, because he deserves all the best. When I saw him hurt like that, it pained all of us. He is the master at that positioning between the lines, he is a complete player, and Kalulu is getting to that level too. He dictates the tempo for his teammates.”
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Kenan Yildiz was rested midweek in the Champions League 0-0 draw away to AS Monaco and started this evening, but went off at half-time after complaining of muscular issues.
“Yildiz told us during the first half he felt a bit of pain, but he could make it to half-time,” explained Spalletti.
“We trusted him, but he now has a bit of pain even when walking, so we have to evaluate it, but it shouldn’t be too serious. I think it’ll be tough to get him ready for Thursday.”
The transfer deadline is tomorrow and Juve have already snapped up two players today, securing Jeremie Boga from OGC Nice on loan and Emil Holm from Bologna in an exchange with Joao Mario.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Carlos Cuesta, Head Coach of Parma Calcio 1913, and Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, talk prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“I get asked about Icardi and Osimhen in a press conference, so I can only speak highly of Icardi as a player when he was in my team,” explained Spalletti.
“There were other situations that he took into the locker room that were about his home life and didn’t belong in the locker room, so I had to talk to him. When you are in a dressing room, you cannot keep the door open to let in other matters.
“I had to make a decision then, and I decided to exclude him, so he had a reaction based on that. He is a good lad, a lovely person, and a fantastic striker. But we don’t want Icardi. Is that ok?
“If I speak highly of someone then it goes all over the headlines that I want to sign him, but it’s not true. We are looking for a player with specific characteristics, if we don’t find him, then we’ll stay as we are. After all, McKennie is as good a hitman as anyone, you saw him again tonight.”
Gleison Bremer and Weston McKennie were full of praise for Luciano Spalletti after Juventus swept Parma aside 4-1. ‘He’s unique, I never in my career worked with a coach like this.’
The Bianconeri are keeping themselves in the thick of the race for a top four finish, further boosted by Como and Atalanta holding each other to a 0-0 draw earlier today.
They ran riot at the Stadio Tardini with a rare Bremer brace, acrobatic Weston McKennie finish, and Jonathan David tapping in at the back post.
Parma’s only goal was also scored by a Juve player, as Andrea Cambiaso accidentally put the Alessandro Circati cross into his own net.
Bremer and McKennie impressed by Spalletti
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Bremer of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Francisco Conceicao during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“It’s a wonderful sensation to score goals, especially as I was out for basically a year and that was tough. I feel better, the leg is responding, and I am glad to help the team, what counts is that we won,” Bremer told DAZN Italia.
It’s a completely different team under Spalletti, as since his arrival they amassed 30 Serie A points, fewer only than Inter’s 37 during the same period.
“The coach is very strong, you can see that he totally changed the way we play. Even when we win, he tries to keep us on our toes. We are still missing something, he always says so, but we’re on the right track.
“This is certainly the best Juventus spirit I’ve experienced here. I only felt this kind of positivity at the start under Motta, but then I got injured.
“Spalletti arrived with his mentality and you can see the difference he makes,” concluded Bremer.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Weston McKennie of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Juventus scored seven goals in their last two Serie A games, having also crushed Napoli 3-0 last week, but in the Champions League only managed a dull 0-0 away to AS Monaco midweek.
There were two different goal celebrations involving McKennie, one was shaking hands with all his teammates like an introduction, the other was shuffling along in a line.
“We work on the wall in training, so that’s what the celebration was, taking those steps,” McKennie told DAZN Italia.
“Spalletti is unique, as I have never in my career worked with a coach like this. He is so good, works with the team spirit, I’m really happy and I think everyone here is happy to be working with him.”
Multiple outlets in Italy are reporting that Fiorentina full-back Robin Gosens has decided to stay on with La Viola to help with their relegation scrap rather than joining Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
Gosens rejects Nottingham Forest and sticks with Fiorentina
However, according to reports from Gianluca Di Marzio,Fabrizio Romano and Gianluigi Longari, Gosens has rejected the Nottingham Forest approach as he has no intention of leaving Fiorentina at this stage of the season, despite their being locked into a relegation dogfight in Serie A.
FLORENCE, ITALY – JANUARY 11: Head coach Massimiliano Allegri manager of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and AC Milan at Artemio Franchi on January 11, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The Viola endured a dreadful start to the 2025-26 campaign, which saw them drop to the bottom of the Serie A table before Christmas. They did not win their first match in Serie A until December 21.
Paolo Vanoli’s side are still in the relegation zone despite an upturn in form at the beginning of 2026. They remain in 18th place with 17 points from 23 matches so far this term.
A brace from centre-back Gleison Bremer helped Juventus on their way to a 4-1 victory away against Parma in Serie A on Sunday night. Check out the player ratings below!
The Bianconeri made it back-to-back wins in Serie A with their 4-1 win over Parma: Bremer (x2), Weston McKennie and Jonathan David provided the goals. Lois Openda also had the ball in the back of the net towards the end, but saw his effort chalked off for offside.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Bremer of Juventus scores his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Best Parma player: Corvi 6 – It sums up Parma’s night that the goalkeeper was considered one of the stronger performers in a 4-1 loss. The 24-year-old, doing a good job at deputising for the injured Suzuki, made a big save on Conceicao early on and perhaps prevented Parma from slipping even further behind on a few occasions.
Coach: Carlos Cuesta 5 – It was a night to forget for Parma, who were especially poor at the back. Juventus always seemed to create overloads which Parma struggled to cope with.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Bremer of Juventus scores his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Best Juventus player: Bremer 8 – A magical evening for the Brazilian centre-back, who came away with two goals to his name and was also afforded a rest after just 65 minutes. There were also excellent performances from the likes of Weston McKennie, Lloyd Kelly and Francisco Conceicao.
Coach: Luciano Spalletti 8 – The Bianconeri head coach said that he wanted to see a reaction after the lacklustre 0-0 draw against AS Monaco in the Champions League earlier this week. This was a fantastic response. Juventus were always a threat on the attack, they were entertaining and had the ball in the back of the net on five occasions. It took a freak Cambiaso own-goal for them to concede, as well.
Juventus celebrated a rare Gleison Bremer brace, along with Weston McKennie and Jonathan David efforts around a comical Andrea Cambiaso own goal to beat Parma 4-1.
The Bianconeri thumped Napoli 3-0 and booked their place in the Champions League play-offs after a midweek 0-0 draw away to Monaco, with Dusan Vlahovic, Arek Milik and Daniele Rugani still injured. The Ducali failed to score in their last three games, although they were 0-0 with Napoli and Genoa before a 4-0 hammering by Atalanta. Zion Suzuki, Abdoulaye Ndiaye, Matija Frigan, Lautaro Valenti and Pontus Almqvist missed out, with new signing Hans Nicolussi Caviglia starting on his debut.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus is challenged by Emanuele Valeri and Mandela Keita of Parma Calcio 1913 during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Francisco Conceicao nearly scored twice in the opening six minutes, as first he forced a desperate Edoardo Corvi save on a Pierre Kalulu assist from the right, then he smashed his finish onto the underside of the bar from seven yards on a Weston McKennie pull-back.
The deadlock was broken when Francisco Conceicao’s corner found Bremer for a bullet header into the near bottom corner from seven yards.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Bremer of Juventus scores his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Conceicao kept pushing, as Enrico Delprato got back just in time to prevent him tapping in the Jonathan David pull-back, but McKennie was booked and a VAR silent check conducted for potential red over his high boot on Mariano Troilo’s ankle.
Emanuele Valeri surged forward and Michele Di Gregorio was at full stretch to fingertip the daisy-cutter round the far post.
Instead, Juventus doubled their lead when Kalulu stood up a cross from the right for McKennie’s acrobatic right-foot volley from eight yards.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Weston McKennie of Juventus scores his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Parma kept pushing, as Gaetano Oristanio’s scorcher from distance stung Di Gregorio’s gloves, but Kenan Yildiz was struggling with a muscular issue and made way for Fabio Miretti at half-time.
Juve literally gifted the hosts a way back into the game with a comical own goal from Andrea Cambiaso. He anticipated Sascha Britschgi on the Alessandro Circati cross from the left and bizarrely flicked it off the outside of the boot into his net from six yards.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus scores an own goal and Parma Calcio 1913 first goal, during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The Ducali barely had time to celebrate when Juventus had restored their two-goal cushion in chaotic fashion. A free kick was taken short, McKennie’s attempt ricocheted off the bar, David’s looping header was probably going in anyway, but Bremer got the final touch just to be sure.
A fourth arrived a few minutes later, as Corvi was late getting down to a Conceicao angled drive and only fingertipped it into the path of David to tap in at the back stick. It’s the second game in a row where Parma conceded four goals.
Lois Openda and Mateo Pellegrino glancing headers whistled wide late on. Openda had the ball in the net with an angled drive, but only after wandering offside.
Pellegrino also forced another tricky save from Di Gregorio in stoppages after turning Federico Gatti.
Parma 1-4 Juventus
Bremer 15, 54 (J), McKennie 37 (J), Cambiaso og 51 (P), David 64 (J)
Atletico Madrid have announced that Ademola Lookman has arrived in the Spanish capital, and that he is set to become a new Atleti player pending the completion of his medical and contract signing.
Confirmed: Lookman in Spain to complete Atletico move
According to reports on Sunday, Atalanta will receive a guaranteed fee of €35m with bonuses of up to €5m.
The Nigeria international is expected to put pen to paper on a four-and-a-half year contract worth around €7m per season in wages.
BERGAMO, ITALY – APRIL 06: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta warms up prior to the Serie A match between Atalanta and SS Lazio at Gewiss Stadium on April 06, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Atletico Madrid and Atalanta have agreed on the transfer of 28-year-old Nigeria international Ademola Lookman, who is already in Madrid. The agreement is pending the corresponding medical examination and the formalisation of his contract,” a statement from the club read on Sunday evening.
Lookman has been linked with a move away from Atalanta for much of the last 18 months, following his hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final. He had been close to a move to Paris Saint-Germain later that year, and has more recently been linked with a switch to Fenerbahce.
He is now set to formalise his Atalanta exit at a total cost of €40m, which will make him the club’s fifth most valuable sale of all time, behind Rasmus Hojlund to Manchester United, Mateo Retegui to Al-Qadsiah, Teun Koopmeiners to Juventus and Cristian Romero to Tottenham.
Acuerdo con la Atalanta para el traspaso de Ademola Lookman.
El internacional nigeriano ya se encuentra en Madrid. El acuerdo está pendiente del reconocimiento médico y la formalización de su contrato.
Liverpool are absolutely in the race to sign Jeremy Jacquet, as transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reveals the battle for the French defender has reached its “very final stages.”
While Chelsea have long been considered the frontrunners, the Reds have emerged as a serious threat to hijack the deal, with negotiations intensifying just 24 hours before the February transfer deadline.
According to Romano, Liverpool’s interest is far from a last-minute whim. Writing on X, he stated:
“Liverpool are absolutely IN the race not from today or yesterday, it all started 20 days ago as revealed. Chelsea been negotiating for weeks as well.”
?? The race for Jeremy Jacquet reaches very final stages to agree deal now for June 2026. ?
Liverpool are absolutely IN the race not from today or yesterday, it all started 20 days ago as revealed.
While Bayern Munich was previously linked, Romano suggests the German champions are now “unlikely” to pursue a deal, leaving a clear path for a move to England.
With Rennes holding out for a fee in the region of €50m (£43m), the coming hours will determine which club secures the “green light” from the French side.
(Photo by Ewen Gavet/Icon Sport via Getty Images)
A signing for the future, not a fix for the present
However, despite the late-night excitement, there is a significant catch for Arne Slot. Jeremy Jacquet is a signing for July 2026 and will not provide immediate relief for Liverpool’s current defensive crisis.
Rennes have remained resolute that they will not sanction a winter departure, insisting that any agreement reached now must see the player remain in France until the end of the season.
This news is a bitter pill for Liverpool fans, who had hoped a new centre-back would arrive to cover for the injured Joe Gomez and Giovanni Leoni.
While Jacquet would represent a major investement for the future, he offers no help for the title run-in over the next four months.
Dominik Szoboszlai has admitted that his future at Liverpool is no longer in his hands after confirming there has been no progress in contract extension talks with the club.
Dominik Szoboszlai: Liverpool future out of my hands
(Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Speaking after Liverpool’s 4-1 victory over Newcastle on Saturday, where he was forced into an emergency right-back role, Szoboszlai was candid about the lack of movement regarding a new deal.
“Nothing yet, to be honest. Nothing, from now on… it is not in my hands.”
“It works this way. When you would like to stay, then to be honest it is not…. there is no progression but if the right offer comes then let’s see.”
While his current contract runs until 2028, the club had reportedly opened talks earlier this season to reward his form.
However, Szoboszlai’s admission that the situation is “not on me” suggests a disconnect in negotiations between his representatives and sporting director Richard Hughes.
“Right now I am doing my job on the pitch, we will see in the future.
“I like the city, I like the club, I like playing with these guys. I love Anfield, I love the fans, let’s see what the future holds. It is not on me. I would love to (stay).”
Szoboszlai has been Liverpool’s best player this season
The timing of the contract standoff is particularly worrying given that Szoboszlai has arguably been Liverpool’s standout performer this campaign.
He has been the club’s most consistent creative force and has already registered eight goals and seven assists in 33 appearances across all competitions.
His importance was on full display against Newcastle, where he filled in defensively due to injuries to Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley.
Statistically, he leads the Premier League for shots from outside the box (34), underlining his role as a primary attacking threat.
He has also shown incredible versatility, having played six different positions so far.
Position
Apps
Goals
Assists
Attacking Midfield
10
1
1
Right Winger
6
2
1
Central Midfield
6
2
4
Right-Back
6
1
0
Defensive Midfield
3
1
1
Right Midfield
2
1
0
Total
33
8
7
Dominik Szoboszlai’s 2025/26 stats across different positions via Transfermarkt
With Liverpool currently competing for the Premier League and Champions League titles, losing their influential “number eight” would be a catastrophic blow to the project under Arne Slot.
Richard Hughes under fire for poor transfer dealings of late
The uncertainty surrounding Szoboszlai adds to the mounting pressure on sporting director Richard Hughes, who has come under heavy fire for a string of failed negotiations.
Fans have been left frustrated after Liverpool famously missed out on top defensive target Marc Guehi in the summer of 2025.
Despite reportedly having a deal agreed, Hughes was accused of leaving the finalization too late, allowing Crystal Palace to pull the plug. To make matters worse, Guehi joined rivals Manchester City just weeks ago in a cut-price January deal.
And now it appears that the move for Lutsharel Geertruida has also collapsed.
Despite personal terms being agreed with the RB Leipzig man (currently on loan at Sunderland), it is now being reported that the deal is unlikely to go through.
This as well as the lack of progress in contract talks with Szoboszlai and Konate has left fans frustrated.
The USMNT midfielder has been used in numerous different roles so far this season, and is currently flourishing in a more advanced midfield role supporting the striker.
McKennie on target again for Juventus
Lovely finish from Weston McKennie as his acrobatic finish gives Juve a 2 goal lead now in Parma
He confirmed his eye for goal by meeting the Pierre Kalulu cross from the right with his right foot from eight yards to surprise Edoardo Corvi at the Stadio Tardini this evening.
This takes his goal tally for the season to six, along with four assists between Serie A, the Champions League and Cppa Italia.
Juve had already been 1-0 up thanks to the Gleison Bremer header on a Francisco Conceicao corner.
Brilliant header from Juventus' central defender Bremer puts them 1-0 ahead at Parma
Reports from various outlets in Italy claim that Milan will send a club doctor to London on Monday in order to assess the situation surrounding Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has reportedly uncovered a knee issue during his Rossoneri medical.
Where Milan stand after concerns during Mateta medical
According to reports from the likes of Gianluca Di Marzio, Daniele Longo and Orazio Accomando, Milan are still hoping to sign Mateta before Monday’s transfer deadline, but are still evaluating the situation.
Various reports claim that Milan will send a club doctor to the UK to evaluate the situation first thing on Monday.
BECKENHAM, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Jean-Philippe Mateta laughs during a Crystal Palace FC training session at Crystal Palace FC Training Ground on November 05, 2025 in Beckenham, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
The Rossoneri have an agreement in place with Crystal Palace over a fee in excess of €30m. The South London outfit gave the green light to Mateta’s Milan medical after securing an agreement for his replacement: Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Mateta began his medical in London on Sunday, but according to recent updates, there have been concerns surrounding a potential knee issue during the medical assessment. This has made Milan wary given the amount that Mateta’s signing will cost.
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 06: Jean-Philippe of Crystal Palace runs for the ball during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Crystal Palace FC and AZ Alkmaar at Selhurst Park on November 06, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Cristian Chivu’s side picked up the three points thanks to first half goals from Lautaro Martinez and Piotr Zielinski, but the game was not without its controversies.
Five minutes into the second half, a firework was thrown onto the pitch from the area of the stands housing the travelling Nerazzurri supporters. The firework narrowly missed Audero, the only player in the penalty area at the time, and exploded with a loud bang right next to him.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
There was a visible cut and burn mark on Audero’s leg where he had been struck by the sparks.
Fortunately, the 29-year-old was cleared to continue playing after a few minutes of on-pitch treatment.
Marotta responds to Audero firework incident
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia after full-time, Inter President Marotta described the incident as a “stupid gesture.”
PARMA, ITALY – APRIL 05: Giuseppe Marotta Chairman of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma and FC Internazionale at Stadio Ennio Tardini on April 05, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
He continued: “A situation that I’ve never experienced across so many years of my career. (It was) a sensational gesture in the name of anti-sportsmanship. I know the authorities are doing their investigations.
“It might be an isolated incident, we are waiting to hear back from the investigations, but we think the same as all the fans. We have a duty to create a culture and to prevent these situations. We condemn this extraordinary incident.
“We would also like to thank Audero for his professionalism,because as a result, this game was able to be played until the end.”
Cristian Chivu is impressed with Inter’s ‘maturity’ after a 2-0 victory away to Cremonese and reiterates Davide Frattesi will not join Nottingham Forest.
The Nerazzurri had the result under lock and key by half-time thanks to a Lautaro Martinez free header on Federico Dimarco’s corner, and Piotr Zielinski’s long-range strike that swerved under the bar.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Fortunately, he was only shaken, and could finish the game, albeit with a cut and a burn mark on his leg.
Chivu proud of Inter concentration in Cremona
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
“I saw maturity in understanding the right moments of the match, and the ways of getting to the victory,” Chivu told Sky Sport Italia.
“In terms of dominating the game, we were always in charge, although they didn’t allow us very much. We were a little slow in moving the ball around, because we lacked energy to attack their deep defensive lines, but then we went in front before half-time.
“It was a little more relaxed after the break, as obviously some fatigue set in, but the important thing was to win and we did it.”
Davide Frattesi was given a rare start in midfield, as Nicolò Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu, Denzel Dumfries and Carlos Augusto were out of action.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale in action during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
There had been reports Frattesi was close to joining Nottingham Forest, but President Beppe Marotta assured he has not asked to leave Inter.
“Frattesi is an Inter player and for me he is an important figure in the squad,” added Chivu.
“He has to prove it on the field and in training, because we trust his qualities. We need him in great shape for the final months of the season, so that he can give us that something extra that at times we are missing in some games.”
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Inter solidify their status as Serie A leaders, opening up an eight-point lead waiting for second-placed Milan to play against Bologna on Tuesday evening.
Antonio Conte and Luciano Spalletti have been complaining that there are too many games in modern football, so what is Chivu’s take on the situation?
“The decisions I made in the past to rotate reflect what you said. I allowed rest days before big matches and was criticised in the media for that.
“There are many games, it increases the risk of injury, but when we are in that many tournaments, it is a risk we have to accept.
“I do not complain, but what I will say is that I can’t wait for the transfer window to close,” concluded Chivu.
Arsenal are facing a significant injury blow with Mikel Merino set for a ‘sustained spell’ on the sidelines as per BBC.
The 29-year-old Spain international was a notable absentee from the Gunners’ dominant 4-0 victory over Leeds United on Saturday, with fears now mounting that a serious foot injury could derail his impressive season.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that the former Real Sociedad star is set to consult specialists after complaining of persistent pain.
Mikel Merino has been a key player for Arsenal
(Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)
Since his arrival in August 2024, Merino has become an key player for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Merino has already netted six goals and assisted another three across all competitions, providing a unique goal-scoring threat that has often bailed Arsenal out in tight fixtures.
Competition
Apps
Goals
Assists
Premier League
21
4
3
UEFA Champions League
7
2
0
EFL Cup
4
0
0
FA Cup
1
0
0
Total
33
6
3
Mikel Merino 25/26 stats across all competitions via Transfermarkt
His tactical versatility has also been vital. Whether shielding the back four alongside Declan Rice or acting as an “emergency striker” during late-game surges, Merino’s presence has allowed Arteta to rotate his squad effectively.
With a gruelling February schedule, including a Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Chelsea and the return of Champions League football, his absence will leave a massive void in Arteta’s team.
Arsenal’s league title to lose?
Despite the injury blow, Arsenal currently sit in a commanding position.
The victory at Elland Road moved the Gunners seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table, with 53 points from 24 matches.
After finishing as runners-up for three consecutive seasons, the north London side are finally being viewed as the team to beat.
However, the timing of Merino’s injury, coupled with a late scare for Bukayo Saka during the Leeds warm-up, has reignited fears about the squad’s depth.
Arsenal are considered favourites to win the title this year, however, with recent history not on their side, any setback could impact the team morale.
Arteta will hope that his side can navigate through this period without any more setbacks and maintain the lead on the top.
Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini has ‘ruled out’ any pursuit of Galatasaray striker Mauro Icardi and seemingly abandoned Randal Kolo Muani too, as Jeremie Boga and Emil Holm arrive.
Their trip to Parma kicks off at the Stadio Tardini at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The transfer deadline is on Monday evening, and Juve are still very active on the market, especially when it comes to the pursuit of attacking options.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Former Juventus player Giorgio Chiellini looks on prior to the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Juventus FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“We were looking for someone who could give Yildiz an occasional rest and be of use over the next few games,” Chiellini told DAZN Italia.
“Boga knows Serie A well, he can make the difference both off the bench and when starting, but is coming off an injury and will take a while to get into his best shape.
“Holm is a reliable full-back, Serie A is difficult and different to Portuguese football, so Joao Mario had a few problems adapting and Bologna represent an opportunity for him. Holm brings more physicality and extra resources.”
Official: Jeremie Boga joins Juventus on loan with an option to buy from OGC Nice.
There are reports they are also targeting Icardi of Galatasaray in case Tottenham won’t release Kolo Muani early from the Paris Saint-Germain loan agreement.
“Vlahovic will be back in a while, but unfortunately not soon enough, so we have been looking for a striker who can fit in with the requests of the coach and also with our financial situation,” explained Chiellini.
“Mauro Icardi emerged because of what the coach said in his press conference, as he was referring to him and Victor Osimhen as examples of great strikers, but there was nothing more than that. I can rule out any pursuit of Icardi.
“As for the other names that have been rumoured, we’ll not forget that Dusan will return in about a month and a half, so we’ll see what happens.”
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – JANUARY 25: Mauro Icardi of Galatasaray celebrates during the Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray and Istanbulspor at Rams Park on January 25, 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta had also been linked, but is now on the verge of joining Milan.
“Mateta is a player we evaluated, but decided not to proceed for the costs and risks. Kolo Muani is a Tottenham player, that is the truth of the matter.”
The Bianconeri surged up the standings with last week’s 3-0 victory over Napoli and booked their spot in the Champions League play-offs following a 0-0 draw at AS Monaco.
Inter had Piotr Zielinski, Lautaro Martinez and Federico Dimarco to thank after a 2-0 victory away against Cremonese in Serie A on Sunday afternoon. Check out the player ratings below!
First-half goals from Lautaro and Zielinski sent Cristian Chivu’s side on their way to their ninth league victory from their last 10 outings. The hosts, meanwhile, are tumbling down the Serie A table and now sit just six points above the drop zone after 23 matches.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Lautaro Martinez scores the 0-1 goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Best Cremonese player: Zerbin 6 – One of Cremonese’s stronger performers on the day. Nicola’s side often looked to him to spring their counter attacks, and he came close to halving the deficit when he struck the crossbar after a free-kick in the 84th minute.
Coach: Davide Nicola 5 – Now up to nine matches without a win for the newly-promoted side, who are tumbling down the Serie A table after a strong start to the 2025-26 season. Inter dominated today, which was to be expected, but other than the occasional counter attack through Zerbin and Vardy, there didn’t seem to be much of a plan to stop or hurt the Nerazzurri.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Best Inter player: Zielinski 7 – It was a strong performance from the Poland international, even before he rifled Inter into a 2-0 lead with a beauty from outside the area – Audero still should have done better. Zielinski dictated the game from the base of the Inter midfield, was slick in his passing, knew when to carry it out and will surely give Cristian Chivu something to think about once Calhanoglu returns from injury.
Coach: Cristian Chivu 7 – Domination from the Nerazzurri, who finished tonight’s game with 69% of the possession and 15 shots on goal. Chivu will be particularly pleased with his side’s first-half performance: Going in for the interval leading 2-0 away from home meant that it was effectively an exercise in keeping a clean sheet for the second 45. 11 matches unbeaten in Serie A, and 10 victories earned over that period. 28 points from their last 10 games.
Reports in Italy claim that Nottingham Forest are interested in and could make a last-minute move for Fiorentina left-back Robin Gosens in the final days of the January transfer window.
Reports Forest interested in Fiorentina’s Gosens
According to reports from Gianluca Di Marzio, Fiorentina are in contact with Fiorentina over a potential last minute deal for 31-year-old left-back Gosens.
According to Alfredo Pedulla, the German wideman is not ‘unsellable’ for Fiorentina, who have been one of the busier sides in Serie A during the January transfer window.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 07: Robin Gosens of ACF Fiorentina celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates Albert Gudmundsson and Nicolo Fagioli during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on January 07, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Gosens has spent the bulk of the last decade in Serie A, spending four and a half years with Atalanta between 2017 and 2022, a year and a half with Inter between 2022 and 2023 and 18 months with Fiorentina from 2024 until present. He also has 24 international caps with Germany on his CV.
Relations between Fiorentina and Nottingham Forest are also thought to be in a good place following the sale of Nikola Milenkovic in the summer of 2024.
Inter comfortably swept Cremonese aside 2-0 with Lautaro Martinez and Piotr Zielinski goals, but there was a scare when Emil Audero was struck by a firework.
The Nerazzurri beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in Germany on Wednesday, though it was not enough to avoid the Champions League play-offs. Carlos Augusto joined Nicolò Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu and Denzel Dumfries on the treatment table. The hosts managed just three draws in eight games, failing to score for the last three in a row. Tommaso Barbieri was suspended, with Martin Payero, Antonio Sanabria, Warren Bondo, Faris Moumbagna and Michele Collocolo injured, so Youssef Maleh was thrown straight into the starting XI.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Petar Sucic fired just over and Lautaro Martinez turned wide from distance after Cremonese struggled playing out from the back, but Inter broke the deadlock when Lautaro Martinez was allowed a surprisingly free header from six yards on Federico Dimarco’s corner. It was his 128th Serie A goal for Inter and he celebrated with a message for his daughter’s birthday.
Federico Ceccherini drilled wide from a Cremonese corner moments later, while Yann Sommer had to sprint out to clear from Federico Bonazzoli after a heavy touch ruined the counter-attack.
Davide Frattesi at full stretch couldn’t keep the finish down on another Dimarco cross, but Piotr Zielinski doubled Inter’s lead with a long-range strike that swerved mid-air to surprise the not impeccable Audero under the bar.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Piotr Zielinski of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring the 0-2 goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Bonazzoli tried to repeat the trick at the other end and stung Sommer’s gloves with another swerving effort.
There was a horrible incident on 50 minutes when a firework was thrown into the penalty area and exploded right next to Cremonese goalkeeper Audero. He had a burn mark on his leg and was evidently shaken, but was able to continue after a few minutes.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Alessio Zerbin tested Sommer with an angled drive, while Marcus Thuram’s header turned an Alessandro Bastoni cross wide.
New signing Milan Djuric made his Cremonese debut, but couldn’t quite get his head to the Giuseppe Pezzella cross.
The hosts were unlucky not to break their goal drought in the final minutes when a free kick was cleared to the edge of the box for Alessio Zerbin’s first-time strike off the outside of the right boot, which thumped the base of the upright. A mad scramble followed, culminating in Sommer smothering at Jamie Vardy’s feet.
Juventus have officially announced the signing of Jeremie Boga on loan from Ligue 1 side OGC Niceuntil the end of the 2025-26 season: The club’s first signing of the January transfer window.
The Bianconeri have confirmed that Boga has joined on a loan deal, which doesn’t include a fee, but does include a future option to buy at a cost of €4.8m, payable over two financial years.
He remains under contract with Nice until the end of the 2026-27 campaign.
Official: Jeremie Boga joins Juventus on loan with an option to buy from OGC Nice.
This is a return to Serie A for Boga, who spent five years in the Italian top flight with Sassuolo and Atalanta.
The Ivorian attacker becomes Juve’s first major signing of the January transfer window. The Old Lady have also sanctioned Douglas Luiz’s return to Aston Villa earlier this month.
“Jeremie Boga has signed for Juventus and arrives on loan from OGC Nice until June 30, 2026,” a statement on the club website read.
“Jeremie Boga was born on January 3, 1997, in Marseille, to an Ivorian family. He developed his footballing career at ASPTT Marseille before completing his youth career at Chelsea at the age of 12.
ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 03: Jeremie Boga of OGC Nice scores his team’s first goal during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 match between S.S. Lazio and OGC Nice at Stadio Olimpico on October 03, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“His first professional steps came through various loan spells in France (Rennes), Spain (Granada), and England (Birmingham), which helped shape his quick, technical, and unpredictable attacking profile.
“It was in Italy, however, that Boga found consistency and recognition: after joining Sassuolo in 2018, he became one of the standout wingers in Serie A, distinguishing himself with his acceleration, dribbling, and ability to make an impact in one-on-one situations. After three and a half seasons in Emilia-Romagna, he moved to Atalanta in early 2022, where he competed in not only domestic but also European football.
“In the summer of 2023, the 1997-born player returned to France, joining OGC Nice, where he racked up 73 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing 9 assists in all competitions, establishing himself as a highly unpredictable attacking player, bringing creativity and a shooting threat to the team.
“An Ivorian national, he led his national team in their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations win, held in his home country, leading Ivory Coast to victory in the tournament eight years after his teammates had lost.
“Boga now arrives in Turin to add flair and pace to the Bianconeri’s attack as a player who is very capable of suddenly lighting up matches.
PISA, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Head coach Luciano Spalletti manager of Juventus FC looks on during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Juventus FC at Arena Garibaldi on December 27, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The Bianconeri have really hit form in 2026, thumping Napoli 3-0 and securing their place in the Champions League play-offs thanks to a midweek 0-0 draw at Monaco.
Luciano Spalletti rotated his squad in that trip, so here brings back Kenan Yildiz, Manuel Locatelli and Francisco Conceicao.
They are in support of David rather than Lois Openda upfront, as Dusan Vlahovic, Arek Milik and Daniele Rugani are still out of action.
Francisco Conceicao celebrates opening the scoring for Juventus against Roma (@seriea_en)
Parma have not scored in their last three games, but those were 0-0 draws against Napoli and Genoa, before a 4-0 defeat to Atalanta.
Coach Carlos Cuesta spent time in the Juventus academy as a coach, and here has to do without injured Zion Suzuki, Abdoulaye Ndiaye, Matija Frigan, Lautaro Valenti and Pontus Almqvist.
Centre-forward Pellegrino returns to the starting XI, supported by Gaetano Oristanio and Jacob Ondrejka.
New signing Hans Nicolussi Caviglia is thrown straight in from the start, with Franco Carboni on the bench.
PARMA, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Gaetano Oristanio of Parma Calcio competes for the ball with Stefano Sabelli of Genoa CFC during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Genoa CFC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on January 18, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Inter are facing a huge fine after Cremonese goalkeeper Emil Audero was struck by a firework that exploded next to him during this evening’s Serie A game.
The incident occurred at the 50th minute at the Stadio Giovanni Zini, when Audero was the only player inside the penalty area.
Cremonese goalkeeper struck by flare thrown by Inter fans
He was understandably shaken, but able to continue after a few minutes of treatment.
There was a visible small cut and burn mark on Audero’s leg, where the explosion struck him.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Inter players and coach Cristian Chivu rushed over to warn their supporters not to throw any more objects onto the pitch.
It could’ve been considerably worse, but Audero was able to carry on the match, with his team 2-0 down.
The Serie A match between Cremonese and Inter temporarily stopped after a firecracker thrown from the away fans section exploded near goalkeeper Emil Audero. After receiving medical attention and being deemed okay, the match has resumed. pic.twitter.com/T1TRdcReYH
The latest updates in Italy claim that Milan’s deal for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta is currently on stand-by despite an agreement between the two clubs for the Frenchman’s transfer.
Di Marzio: Mateta and Milan at a standstill
According to reports earlier on Sunday, Crystal Palace have found an agreement with Wolverhampton Wanderers to sign Jorgen Strand Larsen, which means that they are now willing to let Mateta leave before the end of the January transfer window.
BECKENHAM, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Jean-Philippe Mateta laughs during a Crystal Palace FC training session at Crystal Palace FC Training Ground on November 05, 2025 in Beckenham, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
However, according to the latest updates from Gianluca Di Marzio, the deal has hit a standstill, as Milan still have some clearing up to do in their current attacking department.
Christopher Nkunku was expected to leave Milan in order to facilitate Mateta’s arrival, however, the former Chelsea and RB Leipzig man has reportedly made it clear that he has no desire to leave San Siro just over six months after he signed. Additionally, Santiago Gimenez is expected to return from injury before long.
They add to an attacking department that already includes January signing Niclas Fullkrug, as well as Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao, who have both played as centre-forwards in Massimiliano Allegri’s 3-5-2 this season.
According to Di Marzio, these are ‘hours of reflection’ for Milan, who are currently ‘uncertain’ as to whether the Mateta deal will be finalised before the close of the transfer window.
Fulham manager Marco Silva is once again in hot water with the FA after a scathing post-match interview following his side’s narrow 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Silva, visibly incensed by the officiating during the five-goal thriller, faces a potential touchline ban for comments that questioned the integrity of referee John Brooks and the VAR team.
The controversy stems from an early first-half incident where a penalty for Manchester United was initially awarded for a challenge by Jorge Cuenca on Matheus Cunha.
Following a VAR review, the decision was downgraded to a free-kick just outside the area, but Silva was left furious by the logic behind the intervention and the original call.
Marco Silva calls out ‘terrible’ refereeing
(Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)
Speaking to the BBC after the final whistle, Marco Silva did not hold back, labeling the decision-making process as fundamentally flawed.
“The game started with a terrible decision from John Brooks, a completely bad decision from him,” Silva fumed.
“It was a clear, simple tackle on the ball. I understand VAR are now saying different things but the penalty was given for the tackle. Nobody is going to give a penalty for a pull.”
Silva further suggested that the match was effectively “re-refereed” by the officials in the VAR hub, claiming that the explanation provided by the fourth official during the match contradicted the eventual outcome.
“It is my feeling definitely [that the game was re-refereed]. First of all, a terrible decision on a clear and simple tackle. The feedback from the fourth official was that the referee would come to the screen. Probably it is the first time it was given and the decision was overturned by VAR.”
Silva has been punished multiple times by the FA in the past
The FA is expected to review Silva’s comments under Rule E3, which prohibits managers from implying bias or questioning the integrity of match officials.
Unfortunately for the Fulham boss, his extensive history of disciplinary issues may lead to a more severe sanction.
Dominic Solanke has scored a stunning scorpion kick goal to make it 2-2 for Tottenham against Manchester City.
Spurs have completely turned the game around in the second half, coming back from two goals to now draw level.
Dominic Solanke inspires Tottenham comeback against Manchester City
(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Solanke was involved in the first goal, doing all the hard work before forcing Marc Guehi to put the ball into the back of his own net.
And not long later, he produced one of the best goals of the season, as he improvised a scorpion kick goal to draw Spurs level.
Following a lung-busting run down the right flank, January signing Conor Gallagher whipped a cross into the box.
The delivery was slightly behind Solanke, but the striker showed extraordinary instinct, leaning forward and flicking his trailing heel to loop the ball over a stunned Gianluigi Donnarumma.
While rare, the “scorpion” has left an indelible mark on English football history. Solanke now joins an elite club of acrobats who have successfully pulled off the audacious move.
Olivier Giroud (2017): Perhaps the most famous, the Frenchman scored a breathtaking scorpion kick for Arsenal against Crystal Palace, which went on to win the Puskas Award.
City fumble means Arsenal extend lead to six points
Manchester City’s failure to hold onto their two-goal lead has massive implications for the Premier League title race.
Following Arsenal’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Leeds United on Saturday, Pep Guardiola’s side needed a win to keep the pressure on the league leaders.
Instead, the draw in North London leaves City trailing the Gunners by six points.
With Mikel Arteta’s men finding their clinical edge again, this weekend represents a significant shift in momentum, handing the advantage firmly back to the red side of London as we head into the business end of the season.
Cesc Fabregas tried to reassure a distraught Nico Paz, who was in tears after his last-gasp penalty was saved in a 0-0 with 10-man Atalanta. ‘I missed penalties, so did Lionel Messi and John Terry.’
The incident was the dramatic finale to a strange match, as Atalanta were reduced to 10 men in just the eighth minute when Honest Ahanor was sent off for a reaction foul, responding to Maximo Perrone’s provocation.
Giorgio Scalvini’s handling offence was spotted by VAR and a penalty awarded deep into stoppages, but Marco Carnesecchi parried the weak Nico Paz spot-kick.
Fabregas stands by upset Nico Paz
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Nico Paz of Como 1907 shows his dejection during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It means Nico Paz has now failed to convert all three penalties in his Serie A career, and the young man was in tears at the final whistle.
“I don’t want to kill a young player over a penalty, I am not like that. I missed penalties, so did Leo Messi, so did John Terry.
“We are all with Nico, we are with the young players who have the courage to make a difference. A great champion must always lift his head back up when he hasn’t done well.”
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas salutes the fans at the end of the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Was it really more of a hindrance than an advantage playing against 10?
“Yes and no,” replied Fabregas.
“If I say that I prefer to play 11 against 11, I might be misunderstood, so I’ll just say that today the ball didn’t want to go in. It happens, this is football, but I also want to congratulate Atalanta, who wouldn’t give in, and played their game.
“Let’s say we were unlucky, but when their goalkeeper makes nine saves, it’s not like I or my assistant can come off the touchline and put the ball in the net. We created nine clear-cut scoring opportunities, so let’s lift our heads and keep going.”
This was a battle between Como in sixth place and Atalanta in seventh, so what are their ambitions for this season?
“The objective this term was to do better than last year, taking it one game at a time. We will always play our game, if we are up against Napoli, Fiorentina, Milan or Juventus.
“We played a lot in recent weeks, and were not accustomed to it, so we’ve got to just keep it going,” concluded Fabregas.
Roma are closing in on their third attacking signing of the January transfer window, and the latest updates claim that the Giallorossi and Bayern Munich have now agreed a potential fee for winger Bryan Zaragoza.
According to the latest updates from Alfredo Pedullà, this will be a loan deal with an option to buy, which could become an obligation to buy under certain sporting conditions. Roma will reportedly pay a fee of €13m if they decide or are obliged to make the move permanent.
VIGO, SPAIN – OCTOBER 23: Bryan of RC Celta de Vigo in action during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Real Club Celta and OGC Nice at Estadio Abanca Balaidos on October 23, 2025 in Vigo, Spain. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Zaragoza has made 19 appearances in LaLiga while on loan with Celta Vigo this season. Celta have, however, agreed to terminate his loan deal, which facilitates Zaragoza’s upcoming move to the Italian capital.
The 24-year-old is set to become Roma’s third attacking addition of the January transfer window, following the previous arrivals of Donyell Malen from Aston Villa and Robinio Vaz from Olympique de Marseille.
Inter President Beppe Marotta confirms Davide Frattesi will not join Nottingham Forest, Liverpool did call for Denzel Dumfries, but there ‘weren’t the right conditions’ for Moussa Diaby or Ivan Perisic.
The visit to Cremonese kicks off at the Stadio Giovanni Zini at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 23: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Pisa SC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 23, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Frattesi gets a rare start, despite the rumours he could be on the verge of a potential move to Nottingham Forest before the transfer deadline.
“As we have always said, we don’t want to hold back any player who wants to go elsewhere. Frattesi has never expressed the desire to leave, of course everyone wants more playing time, but he will have the chance during the season to show what he can do,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.
Carlos Augusto has joined the absentee list along with Nicolò Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu and Denzel Dumfries.
Marotta outlines Inter transfer strategy
PISA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Giuseppe Marotta of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between Pisa SC and FC Internazionale at Arena Garibaldi on November 30, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The transfer window is open for just over another 24 hours and Inter had been in talks to secure Moussa Diaby from Al-Ittihad, on loan with an option to buy becoming an obligation in certain conditions.
“We went into this transfer window without a sense of anxiety or with the desperate need to fill any gaps. Dumfries had surgery, and we were therefore looking for an opportunity in that area of the squad, but it had to be advantageous, and we couldn’t find anyone to fit the bill,” explained Marotta.
“With regards to Diaby, we had made an approach, but the right conditions did not appear, so we don’t predict any other transfer negotiations.”
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 04: Denzel Dumfries of Internazionale looks on during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There were reports that Liverpool had made an approach for Dumfries in the January transfer window as well.
“Liverpool made a phone call just to ask about the Dumfries situation, but there is absolutely nothing more than that. These are unplanned calls that do nothing other than destabilise a situation. He is staying with us.”
Perisic was also linked with a potential return to Serie A and specifically San Siro from PSV Eindhoven.
“Perisic is fond of Inter, as he had some great seasons here. We interpreted that as his desire to end a very long season with us, but there aren’t the right conditions. So albeit appreciating his quality and professionalism, there was nothing more concrete than a couple of phone calls,” concluded Marotta.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 21: Ivan Perisic of PSV Eindhoven warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between Newcastle United FC and PSV Eindhoven at St James’ Park on January 21, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri are top of the Serie A table and beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in Germany on Wednesday, even if that was not enough for them to avoid the Champions League play-offs.
They will be up against Bodo/Glimt, who have already caused some upsets on home turf, famously beating Manchester City.
“Nothing can be taken for granted and they have some very difficult climactic conditions in home games, including that artificial pitch.”
Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens’ gesture following Raul Jimenez penalty caught the eyeing during the five goal thriller at Old Trafford.
United’s resurgence under interim manager Michael Carrick continued in breathless fashion on Sunday, as a 94th-minute winner from Benjamin Sesko secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Fulham.
The win marks Carrick’s third consecutive win since taking over as interim manager, propelling United back into the Premier League’s top four.
What Senne Lammens did right after Raul Jimenez scored
(Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)
While the late goals provided the headlines, one of the afternoon’s most surreal moments occurred in the 85th minute.
After Harry Maguire was judged to have felled Raul Jimenez in the box, the Mexican striker stepped up and dispatched a clinical penalty into the top corner, cutting United’s lead to 2-1.
Rather than the usual scenes of frustration or gamesmanship, Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens was seen performing an act of pure sportsmanship.
As Jimenez turned to celebrate, Lammens calmly picked the ball out of the net and approached the Fulham forward.
According to BBC Radio 5 Live commentator Alistair Bruce-Ball, the Belgian keeper “congratulated Raul Jimenez on the class of that penalty,” acknowledging the perfection of the strike even as it threatened his side’s lead.
Sesko scores in Fergie time to make it 3 wins out of 3 for Michael Carrick
The goodwill from Lammens was nearly overshadowed by a defensive collapse.
Just minutes after the penalty, Fulham substitute Kevin silenced the Stretford End with a stunning stoppage-time equaliser, curling a shot past Lammens to make it 2-2.
This is the second consecutive late winner from Man United, after Matheus Cunha scored a stunning winner against Arsenal last week.
The result maintains Carrick’s 100% record, following wins over Manchester City and Arsenal, and cements United’s position as the form team of early 2026.
Michael Carrick’s perfect start as interim manager
More than the wins, it is the performances and the fighting spirit that Carrick has instilled immediately that suggests that the old Man United DNA might just be back.
Sky Sport Italia reports that Juventus have offered an 18-month contract to Galatasaray striker Mauro Icardi, as Tottenham are unwilling to release Randal Kolo Muani.
Former Inter captain Icardi is the latest Juventus target for the attack, and according to Sky Sport Italia, the Serie A giants have offered the Argentine forward an 18-month contract.
Juventus offer to Galatasaray striker Icardi
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – JANUARY 25: Mauro Icardi of Galatasaray celebrates during the Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray and Istanbulspor at Rams Park on January 25, 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
Icardi’s deal with Galatasaray expires at the end of the season, and Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti already coached him at Inter.
Transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà reported earlier today that Juventus had sounded out Icardi’s availability, and the Serie A giants are now moving forward in negotiations with Galatasaray and their striker.
With the winter transfer window shutting at 20:00 CET tomorrow, it remains to be seen whether Juventus will have enough time to finalise the deal and if Galatasaray can move quickly enough to sign a replacement.
ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 03: Jeremie Boga of OGC Nice scores his team’s first goal during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 match between S.S. Lazio and OGC Nice at Stadio Olimpico on October 03, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Juventus and Galatasaray will also meet on the pitch later this month as they’ll face off in the Champions League knockout play-off.
Juventus have completed two more deals today, securing agreements with winger Jeremie Boga from OGC Nice and Bologna right-back Emil Holm.
Atalanta were down to 10 for practically the entire match after an Honest Ahanor reaction foul, but Como were frustrated and Marco Carnesecchi saved Nico Paz’s last-gasp penalty.
This was a battle for ambition and Europe, as sixth hosted seventh in the Serie A table. Cesc Fabregas had won five of the last seven Serie A games and was fresh off a midweek 3-1 Coppa Italia victory over Fiorentina. La Dea lost 1-0 to Union Saint-Gilloise, but still swept into the Champions League play-offs. Their Serie A form was better, picking up 13 points from five rounds. Ademola Lookman was left out pending a transfer.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Como 1907 fans show their support during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It was a dramatic start to the match, as within eight minutes Atalanta went down to 10 men. Maxi Perrone was saying something to Honest Ahanor, who reacted angrily by shoving him in the face during an off the ball incident. The referee did not see it, but showed the red card to Ahanor and the yellow to Perrone after consulting with his assistants.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Honest Ahanor of Atalanta BC walks off after getting a red card during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Tasos Douvikas failed to make the most of an inspired Martin Baturina pass that sent him clear, while Douvikas and Jacobo Ramon also turned headers just off target.
Douvikas was sent through the middle by Baturina only to scuff the weak finish into the arms of Marco Carnesecchi, followed by Nico Paz doing the same on a Douvikas lay-off.
Carnesecchi parried a powerful Nico Paz snapshot and Giorgio Scalvini threw himself in the way to prevent Perrone tapping in the rebound.
Mergim Vojvoda also tested the Atalanta goalkeeper, while Carnesecchi rushed out to stop Jacobo Ramon turning in the deflected Marc-Oliver Kempf attempt at the near post.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Maximo Perrone of Como 1907 reacts during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Raoul Bellanova made his return after two months out with a thigh injury, and 10-man Atalanta nearly took the lead straight after the restart. Charles De Ketelaere sent Kamaldeen Sulemana on the counter, forcing a difficult one-handed Jean Butez save after sending Jacobo Ramon to ground.
Ramon had several chances at the other end, a header over and angled drive skimming the far post, but Douvikas was once again wasteful when he failed to connect with a Jayden Addai roll across from five yards.
Meanwhile, the Atalanta counter-attacks were getting more frequent, Nikola Krstovic nodding a Lorenzo Bernasconi cross wide.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Martin Baturina of Como 1907 is challenged by Marten De Roon of Atalanta BC during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Alvaro Morata was incorrectly flagged offside when his angled drive shaved a coat of paint off the far post, then his free header was straight at Carnesecchi after Giorgio Scalvini slipped.
Ederson drilled wide, but Carnesecchi was again decisive on Jacobo Ramon, who controlled a ball with his chest, let it bounce and flicked it around Bernasconi to force the save from point-blank range.
Deep into stoppages, VAR spotted that Scalvini had struck the ball with his hand when going to head it away and Como were awarded a penalty. Nico Paz had missed his previous two spot-kicks in Serie A, and made it three out of three when Carnesecchi parried his fairly weak and central attempt at the 98th minute.
The Inter injury list keeps growing, but Lautaro Martinez partners Francesco Pio Esposito with Davide Frattesi in midfield against Jamie Vardy’s unpredictable Cremonese.
DORTMUND, GERMANY – JANUARY 28: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Borussia Dortmund and FC Internazionale Milano at BVB Stadion Dortmund on January 28, 2026 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri are flying away at the top of the Serie A table and had their confidence boosted by a midweek 2-0 victory away to Borussia Dortmund, even if it wasn’t enough to avoid the Champions League play-offs.
However, the injury list is growing, now missing Nicolò Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu, Denzel Dumfries and also Carlos Augusto.
Lautaro Martinez and Alessandro Bastoni were rested in the Champions League midweek, so return to the starting XI with Pio Esposito.
Sucic and Piotr Zielinski form the midfield with Frattesi, while despite rumours of a potential exit, Luis Henrique also starts.
VERONA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and FC Internazionale at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on November 02, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Cremonese made their name as giant-killers this season with victories over Milan and Bologna, holding Como, Atalanta and Lazio to draws.
Their form has taken a dip in recent weeks, managing just three stalemates in their last eight games, not scoring for three on the bounce.
Tommaso Barbieri is suspended, with Martin Payero, Antonio Sanabria, Warren Bondo, Faris Moumbagna and Michele Collocolo injured.
New signings Milan Djuric and Youssef Maleh are thrown straight onto the bench.
Veteran Vardy leads the way with Federico Bonazzoli, while Alessio Zerbin moves into a midfield role.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 01: Davide Nicola, Head Coach of Cremonese, congratulates Jamie Vardy of Cremonese following the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and US Cremonese at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 01, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Milan have reportedly decided against signing Chelsea defender Axel Disasi following ‘technical assessments’ made with coach Massimiliano Allegri.
Serie A giants Milan are not going to sign Chelsea defender Disasi, according to Matteo Moretto and Fabrizio Romano.
Milan not signing Disasi
Axel Disasi of Chelsea of Chelsea during the UEFA Conference League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Chelsea FC and Shamrock Rovers FC at Stamford Bridge on December 19, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
The Italian transfer experts have claimed on YouTube and X social media (via Milannews) that ‘technical assessments’ made with coach Allegri have led to their decision to drop the Chelsea centre-back.
Disasi had been offered to the Rossoneri, but Milan eventually decided not to sign the 27-year-old, also because they have trust in Koni De Winter, who has become a starter in recent weeks following a head injury to Strahinja Pavlović.
Milan set to sign Mateta
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 18: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Crystal Palace FC and KuPS Kuopio at Selhurst Park on December 18, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Milan are expected to bring in attacking reinforcements instead, as Jean-Philippe Mateta will undergo medical tests tomorrow ahead of a permanent move from Crystal Palace.
Ademola Lookman is on his way to Spain to have medical tests with Atletico Madrid.
Nigeria international Lookman is taking off to Spain to have medical tests with Atletico Madrid.
Lookman flies out for Atletico Madrid medical
BERGAMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 22: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Atalanta BC and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio di Bergamo on October 22, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Atalanta striker was not available for today’s Serie A match between Atalanta and Como and has now arrived at the Bergamo Airport to take a flight to the Spanish capital.
BERGAMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 28: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC scores their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and AC Milan at New Balance Arena on October 28, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Atalanta confirmed the agreement with Atletico Madrid less than two hours ago, and the Nigerian is now ready to arrive in Spain to undergo medical tests before completing a €40m transfer, including add-ons.
Jean-Philippe Mateta is set to have a medical on Sunday ahead of a permanent transfer from Crystal Palace to Milan according to the latest updates.
Mateta all set for Milan medical
According to James Horncastle and David Ornstein of The Athletic, The France international is set to join the Rossoneri in a deal worth over €30m and is expected to have his medical before the end of the weekend.
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 06: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace runs for the ball during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Crystal Palace FC and AZ Alkmaar at Selhurst Park on November 06, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
The South London side have now wrapped up a deal for Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Jorgen Strand Larsen, who is expected to join Oliver Glasner’s side in a deal worth just shy of €50m before bonuses.
This clears the path for Mateta to join Milan, despite interest from the likes of Juventus and Nottingham Forest earlier this month.
Mateta has scored eight goals from 23 appearances in the Premier League this term and has a career record of 46 goals from 153 appearances in the English top flight. He also recorded two goals from three caps with the senior France national team in 2025.
Roma are close to signing Bayern Munich-owned winger Bryan Zaragoza, who has already agreed to move to the Stadio Olimpico.
Spanish winger Zaragoza has agreed to join Roma on loan in the winter transfer window, and the Giallorossi are now in talks with his club Bayern Munich to finalise the transfer.
Roma agreement with Zaragoza
MADRID, SPAIN – DECEMBER 07: Bryan Zaragoza of RC Celta Vigo looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and RC Celta de Vigo at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on December 07, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
According to Sky Sport Italia and Repubblica, Zaragoza has agreed to join the Giallorossi this month so Roma are now in advanced talks with Bayern Munich.
Transfer expert Orazio Accomando suggests that Bayern are ready to send Zaragoza to Roma on an initial loan deal with an option to buy.
A busy winter window for Roma
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Donyell Malen of AS Roma celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The transfer package is worth €15m, according to Accomando, Sky and Repubblica.
Roma have already signed two attacking players this month: Donyell Malen on loan with an option to buy from Aston Villa and Robinio Vaz on a permanent deal from Olympique Marseille.
Multiple sources claim that Wolverhampton Wanderers have accepted an offer from Crystal Palace for Jorgen Strand Larsen, as Milan continue to push to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Wolves striker Strand Larsen is on the verge of joining Crystal Palace. According to The Athletic, the Norway international will undergo medical tests with the South London-based club on Sunday.
Milan have Mateta hope
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 04: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace looks on prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Crystal Palace at St James’ Park on January 04, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Both The Athletic and Sky Sports UK claim that Wolves have accepted an offer from Palace.
The proposal is reportedly worth £43m (nearly €50m) plus £5m (€5.7m) add-ons
The latest update from the UK is quite meaningful for Serie A giants Milan, who hope to sign Mateta from Crystal Palace before the winter transfer window shuts tomorrow.
Strand Larsen to replace Mateta at Crystal Palace?
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 15: AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AC Milan at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Crystal Palace, however, needed to sign a replacement before sending Mateta to San Siro and with Strand Larsen now set to move to South London, the Rossoneri hope to unlock the Mateta deal.
The Athletic reports that Everton rejected a Juventus approach for Beto last week and that talks between the two sides involving Edon Zhegrova ‘didn’t develop.’
Everton refused to discuss a potential Beto loan move to Juventus last week, according to The Athletic.
Why Everton rejected Juventus’ approach for Beto
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: Beto of Everton challenges Daniele Ghilardi of Roma during the pre-season friendly match between Everton and AS Roma at Hill Dickinson Stadium on August 09, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
The Serie A giants are on the market for a new centre-forward, and Beto, a former Udinese striker, was only the last name sounded out by Juve in the January window after Jean-Philippe Mateta and Youssef En-Nesyri.
According to the report, Everon had concerns about finding an adequate replacement for Beto, so they rejected the Juventus approach.
Zhegrova involved in talks between Everton and Juventus
PISA, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Edon Zhegrova of Juventus FC reacts during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Juventus FC at Arena Garibaldi on December 27, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The Athletic adds that the two parties even discussed Zhegrova’s possible move to the English club, but negotiations didn’t develop.
Juventus have recently reached agreements to sign OGC Nice winger Jeremie Boga and Bologna right-back Emil Holm, while Alfredo Pedullà claims that the latest target in attack for the Bianconeri is ex-Inter captain Mauro Icardi.
The Bianconeri are looking for reinforcements in attack after the serious Dusan Vlahovic injury, as Jonathan David and Lois Openda have struggled to find the net.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 26: Mauro Icardi of FC Internazionale claps the hands during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Empoli FC at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on May 26, 2019 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
It’s reported now by Sportitalia chief Pedullà that Juve approached Galatasaray to ask after Icardi.
It comes after the two teams were paired in the Champions League play-offs, so Spalletti praised the Argentine in his press conference yesterday, calling Icardi “one of the best finishers I ever worked with.”
They were together at Inter and that was also the last time the centre-forward was in Serie A, leaving for Paris Saint-Germain in a €50m transfer in the summer of 2020.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
He turns 33 later this month and his contract with Galatasaray only runs to June 30, so he ought to be available for quite a low price.
The striker scored 10 goals with two assists in 29 competitive games this season, having recovered from a torn anterior cruciate ligament in November 2024.
Torino had a slow start and had to thank goalkeeper Alberto Paleari for saves on Ylber Ramadani and Lassana Coulibaly, who had tried to score from outside the box.
The home side took the lead with their first shot on target, made by Scotland international Adams, who slotted home with the inside of his foot at the far post from a perfect Nikola Vlasic cross from the right.
Adams had not scored in Serie A since the reverse fixture in Lecce on November 30.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Valentino Lazaro of Torino is put under pressure by Santiago Pierotti of US Lecce during the Serie A match between Torino FC and US Lecce at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on February 01, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The Granata had three consecutive chances to double their lead, but first Zapata didn’t find the target with a shot from inside the box and then Wladimiro Falcone denied the Colombian and Cesare Casadei’s attempts from distance.
There was also the time for another Paleari save on Omri Gandelman before the break, while Riccardo Sottil’s free kick went over the crossbar.
During the second 45 minutes, Falcone kept his Lecce side in the game with two stunning interventions.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Cesare Casadei of Torino is put under pressure by Danilo Veiga of US Lecce during the Serie A match between Torino FC and US Lecce at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on February 01, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The first came from a great reflex save on Zapata’s close-range finish from the centre of the box, the second from a corner situation before Danilo Veiga’s goal-line clearance.
Ché Adams wasted the chance to score his brace by sending a shot wide from a tight angle. Torino failed to put the game to bed, so Lecce tried to respond, and Banda was unlucky when he hit the post after a counterattacking move, curling an unstoppable shot past Paleari.
With this victory, Toro move to 26 points, nine above the drop zone, while Lecce remain 17th, just one point above Fiorentina.
Napoli are breathing a sigh of relief after tests showed Giovanni Di Lorenzo avoided serious knee ligament damage, so he might only be out for a month.
There had been genuine concerns that his season was over after he hyperextended his left knee during yesterday’s 2-1 Serie A win over Fiorentina.
The Partenopei captain was stretchered off in agony and seen leaving the stadium on crutches.
Di Lorenzo avoided far worse damage
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Albert Gudmundsson of ACF Fiorentina battles for possession with Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Multiple sources claim that Inter have not given up on Moussa Diaby, sending a new offer to sign the France international on loan with an obligation to buy from Al-Ittihad.
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – SEPTEMBER 12: Moussa Diaby of Al Ittihad reacts during the Saudi Pro League match between Al Ittihad and Al-Fateh at Al Inmaa Stadium on September 12, 2025 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Both Italian sources report that Inter still hope to sign Diaby, who wants to move to San Siro this month.
Therefore, the Nerazzurri have sent a new offer to sign the Frenchman on loan with an obligation to buy tied to certain conditions.
According to Sky Sport, Inter’s obligation to buy would be set at €28m rather than €35m.
The Italian broadcasters report that Inter are increasingly confident of reaching an agreement with Al-Ittihad, while the Saudi Pro League giants will answer the Nerazzurri’s proposal in the coming hours.
Inter have little time to finalise the deal as the winter transfer window for Serie A clubs shuts on February 2 at 20:00 CET.
Crystal Palace have been presented with a late-market opportunity to strengthen their attacking options, with reports suggesting the club have been offered the chance to sign former Aston Villa striker Jhon Durán before the January transfer window closes.
According to TEAMtalk, there is significant movement behind the scenes regarding Durán’s short-term future.
French side Lille are understood to be in advanced talks to take over the striker’s loan for the remainder of the season and are currently viewed as being in pole position.
However, intermediaries have also been active in sounding out Premier League clubs, with Crystal Palace, Leeds United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United all made aware of his availability.
Jhon Durán is looking to revive his career
Durán’s representatives are keen to secure a move that offers regular minutes during the second half of the campaign, after the forward struggled to establish himself following his exit from Aston Villa.
While the switch away from European football offered financial and profile benefits, his on-pitch involvement has been limited, a situation his camp are eager to rectify with the 2026 World Cup cycle in mind.
For Crystal Palace, the timing of the approach is particularly interesting.
Mateta’s omission from Palace’s travelling squad for the Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest has only intensified speculation that his time at Selhurst Park may be drawing to a close.
Should Mateta depart, Palace would face a clear need for attacking reinforcement. Durán’s profile offers a useful solution.
Jhon Duran in action for Al Nassr (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
During his time at Aston Villa, the Colombian impressed with his physical presence, direct running, and willingness to stretch defenses.
Although still raw, his age and prior experience in England make him a logical option compared to alternatives from unfamiliar leagues.
Lille’s advanced position suggests competition is fierce, but a Premier League return, particularly one offering regular starts, could prove appealing to the player.
For Palace, this is not just about replacing a potential outgoing striker, but about maintaining attacking momentum during a crucial phase of the season.
Multiple sources claim that Juventus have reached an agreement to sign Emil Holm on loan with an option to buy from Bologna, with Joao Mario expected to move in the opposite direction.
Juventus are ready to welcome their second reinforcement in the winter transfer window, having reached an agreement with Bologna to sign right-back Holm.
Holm set to sign for Juventus
BOLOGNA, ITALY – JANUARY 21: Vincenzo Italiano, Head Coach of Bologna, gives instructions to Emil Holm during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between Bologna FC 1909 and Borussia Dortmund at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on January 21, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Fabrizio Romano, Sky Sport and Romeo Agresti report that the two Serie A clubs have reached an agreement over an initial loan deal with an option to buy.
The Rossoblu will welcome Joao Mario, also on loan, from Juventus.
Joao Mario set for Bologna transfer
VERONA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Joao Mario of Juventus FC is challenged by Domagoj Bradaric of Hellas Verona during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Juventus FC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on September 20, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Ilbianconero.com maintains that Holm will join Juventus regardless of Joao Mario’s transfer to the Stadio Dall’Ara.
The Sweden international is expected to undergo medical tests today or tomorrow, Monday, February 2, 2026.
Holm will become Juventus’ second winter reinforcement after Jeremie Boga, who landed in Turin on Sunday to undergo medical tests before completing an initial loan move from OGC Nice.
Multiple sources claim that Napoli are in talks with Cagliari to sign Gabriele Zappa as a replacement for the injured Giovanni Di Lorenzo.
Napoli have targeted Cagliari right-back Zappa as a potential replacement for Di Lorenzo.
Napoli in talks to sign Di Lorenzo’s replacement
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Albert Gudmundsson of ACF Fiorentina battles for possession with Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The latter suffered a suspected knee injury during a Serie A match against Fiorentina on Saturday, urging Napoli to look for a replacement just one day before the end of the winter transfer window on February 2.
Sky Sport Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio and Repubblica claim that negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing, with Zappa very much open to moving to the Stadio Maradona.
Zappa open to joining Napoli
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 03: Mattia Zaccagni of SS Lazio competes for the ball with Gabriele Zappa of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on November 03, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
According to Repubblica, Napoli turned to Zappa after Genoa asked for a loan deal with an obligation to buy worth €20m for Brooke Norton-Cuffy.
Zappa is currently Napoli’s top target to replace Di Lorenzo. As per Sky Sport, the other options for the Partenopei are Ignace Van der Brempt (Como), Davide Calabria (Panathinaikos) and Timothy Castagne of Fulham.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Manchester City Academy striker Justin Oboavwoduo, 19, is set to join Juventus, initially playing for their NextGen squad.
Manchester City talent Oboavwoduo is set to join Juventus, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Oboavwoduo has scored six goals and provided five assists in 18 appearances across all competitions this season, including five goals in six Premier League 2 games.
Oboavwoduo set to join Juventus
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 23: Justin Oboavwoduo of Manchester City in action during the UEFA Youth League 2024/25 match between Manchester City and Sparta Praha at Joie Stadium on October 23, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
The 19-year-old made his England U20 debut this past September.
According to Romano, Oboavwoduo will initially join Juventus’ NextGen squad playing in Italy’s third division, Serie C.
Oboavwoduo is the second deal completed by Juventus for their second team in recent days, after Adin Ličina from Bayern Munich.
Busy Juventus in final days of winter window
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: General view inside the stadium prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Juventus have been quite busy in the final days of the winter transfer window, having also welcomed reinforcement for their first team.
Multiple reports in Italy claim that Ademola Lookman has reached an agreement with Atletico Madrid and is ready to undergo medical tests with the Colchoneros.
Nigeria international Lookman is set to join Atletico Madrid from Atalanta.
Lookman set for Atletico Madrid medical
BERGAMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 22: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Atalanta BC and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio di Bergamo on October 22, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Several Italian sources, including Fabrizio Romano and Repubblica, claim that the Atalanta star has reached an agreement with the La Liga side.
According to Repubblica, Lookman will sign a four-year deal worth €7m per season.
Both Romano and Repubblica report that Atletico will pay €40m to sign the 28-year-old. According to Romano, it’s a €35m deal plus €5m add-ons.
DUBLIN, IRELAND – MAY 22: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC bites their winner’s medal as he celebrates victory after the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 final match between Atalanta BC and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Dublin Arena on May 22, 2024 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Lookman has not been called up for today’s Serie A match between Como and Atalanta and will travel to Madrid in the coming hours to undergo medical tests.
The Nigeria international will go down as an Atalanta legend, not only because of his 55 goals in 137 games, but especially for his hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League Final against Bayer Leverkusen, which gave La Dea their first major European trophy.
Both sides are far from being in their best form as Torino lost the last four games in a row, while Lecce secured a draw in their last match after four consecutive defeats.
VERONA, ITALY – JANUARY 04: Giovanni Simeone of Torino celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Torino FC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on January 04, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The Salentini have a one-point lead over 18th-placed Fiorentina, who lost 2-1 away at Napoli on Saturday, but Torino are just five points above Lecce.
Both sides must cope without several injured players: Ilic, Nkounkou, Biraghi, Aboukhlal, Gineitis, Masina, Ismajli, and Simeone are out of action for Torino. New signings Prati and Kulenovic are available on the bench, while Marianucci starts straight away in defence.
Lecce have travelled to Piedmont without Berisha, Camarda, Gorter, Helgason, Marchwinski, Kouassi and Fruchtl.
LECCE, ITALY – DECEMBER 12: Nikola Stulic of US Lecce celebrates after scoring his team’s opening goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and Pisa SC at Stadio Via del Mare on December 12, 2025 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
New signing Walid Cheddira starts up front for the travelling side, while Torino look to Zapata and Adams up front.
Below are the confirmed line-ups and live updates for the crucial match in the race for survival. at the Grande Torino.
Manchester United have moved to calm growing speculation surrounding the future of their captain Bruno Fernandes, with head coach Michael Carrick confirming that any definitive decision will be taken at the end of the season rather than in the coming months.
As reported by The Mirror, Fernandes’ long-term position at Old Trafford has been the subject of increasing debate, fuelled by suggestions that Man United may need to place him among the club’s highest earners to secure his future.
Reports have claimed that a new deal worth around £400,000 per week could be required to persuade the Portugal international to commit his peak years to the club.
Carrick, however, was keen to strike a composed and reassuring tone when addressing the situation.
Man United are not concerned about Fernandes’ future
The United coach praised Fernandes’ influence both on and off the pitch, stressing that there are currently no concerns about the midfielder’s commitment or attitude.
Fernandes’ importance to Man United is difficult to overstate. Since arriving at Old Trafford, he has been a central figure in the side’s attacking structure, regularly setting the tempo, creating chances, and shouldering leadership responsibility during challenging periods.
His role as captain has only amplified his influence, particularly in a squad still searching for consistency and a clear identity.
United’s handling of Fernandes’ contract will be closely watched. Allowing uncertainty to linger around such a key figure could risk unsettling both the dressing room and long-term planning.
By deferring discussions until the end of the campaign, United appear determined to keep distractions to a minimum and allow footballing matters to take the centre stage.
Newcastle United have been presented with a late opportunity to enter the race for Angel Gomes, with the Marseille midfielder emerging as one of the names being eyed by Premier League clubs.
Intermediaries have reportedly made contact with Newcastle United to outline Gomes’ availability, amid growing indications that Marseille would be willing to sanction a move before the deadline.
According to TEAMtalk, Gomes is open to a return to English football this month, viewing regular minutes as crucial to reviving his momentum at a pivotal stage of his career.
That ambition is closely tied to his international aspirations, with the midfielder eager to re-establish himself in the England picture ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle under Thomas Tuchel.
While the England international only arrived in France last summer following his departure from Lille, his role under head coach Roberto De Zerbi has diminished in recent weeks.
Angel Gomes wants more playing time
Despite his reduced involvement at Marseille, where he has featured for only brief cameos across recent Ligue 1 fixtures, Gomes’ quality remains highly regarded.
From Newcastle’s perspective, Gomes would represent a different midfield profile to many currently at Eddie Howe’s disposal.
He is a player who likes to keep possession, pass the ball around, bring others into the game and provie more control in the middle of the park.
While questions remain over how quickly he could adapt mid-season, the upside of a player with proven Ligue 1 pedigree is clear.
Wolverhampton Wanderers are believed to be advancing discussions, Newcastle are far from alone in monitoring the situation.
Angel Gomes on the ball in an England training session (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Everton, Brighton & Hove Albion, Fulham, and Sunderland have all been alerted to his availability, showing the level of domestic interest surrounding the 25-year-old.
A January move back to England could provide the platform he needs to reset his career trajectory and Newcastle’s late involvement may yet add another compelling twist to a rapidly developing transfer story.
Howe would love to have a player like Gomes in the team. A midfield which is more based on strength due to the likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton and Sandro Tonali, Gomes could be the ideal player to complement them and provide more flamboyance.
Reports in Italy claim that Juventus will make a final attempt today to sign Randal Kolo Muani, but the Bianconeri are running out of time to convince Tottenham.
Juventus will make a new attempt to sign Kolo Muani today, reports Gazzetta.
Final Juventus attempt for Kolo Muani
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – JANUARY 28: Randal Kolo Muani of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Tottenham Hotspur at Frankfurt Stadion on January 28, 2026 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
The French striker already played in Turin in the second half of 2024-25, scoring ten goals in 20 appearances across all competitions.
There were reports earlier this week that Spurs were ready to offload Kolo Muani this month, but this doesn’t seem to be the case, as Tuttosport and Gazzetta claim that Tottenham coach Thomas Frank is unwilling to let the striker go.
Juventus are running out of time to convince the North Londoners as the January transfer window ends tomorrow, February 2, 2026, at 20:00 CET (19:00 GMT).
Juventus get attacking reinforcement
Jeremie Boga arrives to undergo Juventus medical on February 1, 2026 (via Romeo Agresti, X).
Kolo Muani is under contract with PSG, but he’s on loan at Tottenham until the end of the season. According to Tuttosport, PSG are prepared to send Kolo Muani back to Juventus if Spurs give their approval.
Kenan Yildiz and Jonathan David return to the Juventus’ starting XI for a Serie A match against Parma at the Stadio Tardini.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT).
The home side must cope without Abdoulaye Ndiaye, Matija Frigan, Zion Suzuki, Lautaro Valenti, and Pontus Almqvist, while Dusan Vlahovic, Daniele Rugani, and Arkadiusz Milik are unavailable for the Bianconeri.
David and Yildiz started on the bench against Monaco on Wednesday, but will return to the starting XI in Parma this evening.
Sky Sport and Gazzetta report that Gleison Bremer is expected to start in central defence for the Old Lady, even if Federico Gatti has a chance to feature in the XI, so the Brazilian can rest after starting many consecutive matches.
Parma will look to Mateo Pellegrino in attack and Jacob Ondrejka as an attacking midfielder.
Parma vs. Juventus – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast on TNT Sports 1 and DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.
Francesco Pio Esposito and Lautaro Martinez are expected to lead the Inter attack in an away Serie A game against Jamie Vardy’s Cremonese.
It kicks off at 18:00 CET (17:00 GMT) at the Stadio Zini in Cremona.
The Nerazzurri are the Serie A table leaders, but have travelled to Cremona without three regular starters: Denzel Dumfries, Hakan Calhanoglu and Nicolò Barella. Carlos Augusto is also unavailable for the travelling side.
Tommaso Barbieri is suspended for Cremonese, while David Okereke, Antonio Sanabria, Faris Moumbagna, Warrne Bondo, Michele Collocolo and Martin Payero are injured.
As reported by several Italian sources, including Gazzetta, Sky, and Tuttosport, French striker Thuram is expected to rest, making room for Pio Esposito in the Inter attack.
Nottingham Forest target Davide Frattesi is available, but won’t feature in Inter’s XI as Petar Sucic, Piotr Zielinski and Henrik Mkhitaryan will get the nod in the middle of the park.
Cremonese will look to Vardy and Federico Bonazzoli up front. January signing Youssef Maleh will start in central midfield for the Grigiorossi, who are winless in 2026 and haven’t scored in their last three league games.
Cremonese vs. Inter – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on DAZN and TalkSport YouTube in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.
According to transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano, top clubs are involved in the race to sign Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet.
As things stand, Liverpool and Chelsea are both understood to be in active dialogue with Rennes and the player’s representatives, as they explore the framework of a future transfer rather than an immediate move.
Sources close to the situation indicate that Bayern Munich are currently unlikely to pursue the deal, leaving the contest largely centred on England.
Crucially, Rennes are determined to retain Jacquet until at least July 2026, a stance that has shaped the negotiations.
Rennes are destined to lose Jacquet in the future
The Ligue 1 side view the highly rated centre-back as a core part of their medium-term project and are reluctant to weaken their defensive depth in the short term.
Any agreement reached now would therefore be structured as a delayed transfer, allowing Rennes to continue benefitting from his development while securing long-term financial clarity.
Jacquet has steadily established himself as one of the most promising young defenders in French football.
During the 2025/26 season, he has featured regularly across Ligue 1 and domestic cup competitions, logging significant minutes for a player of his age.
His strengths lie in his positional awareness, aerial timing, and calm distribution under pressure.
Data from Ligue 1 this season places him among Rennes’ most reliable defenders for duel success and progressive passes, showing his growing tactical maturity.
The uncertain future of defender Ibrahima Konate is forcing the Reds to look for a new defender in the market. Not to forget they also lost out on signing of Marc Guehi, who recently joined Manchester City.
West Ham United are among a growing list of English clubs who have been alerted to the potential availability of Angel Gomes, with the Marseille midfielder increasingly viewed as a realistic option.
As first reported by Graeme Bailey, intermediaries have sounded out West Ham over a possible move for the England international, despite Gomes only joining Marseille last summer following his departure from Lille.
Under head coach Roberto De Zerbi, Gomes has been used in a variety of attacking and midfield roles.
Angel Gomes could add versatility to West Ham
He has featured off the right flank, as a No.10, and occasionally in deeper central areas, a testament to his versatility.
De Zerbi’s system places heavy emphasis on ball retention and progression, and Gomes’ comfort in tight spaces has allowed him to adapt to multiple demands within that structure.
From a statistical standpoint, Gomes’ recent seasons in France highlight why clubs remain keen.
During his final campaign at Lille, he ranked among the team’s top players for progressive passes and chances created from open play, while also maintaining a high pass-completion rate for an advanced midfielder.
Wolverhampton Wanderers are currently pushing hardest for his signature, having already opened discussions.
However, West Ham are not alone in monitoring the situation. Newcastle United, Everton, Brighton & Hove Albion, Fulham, and Sunderland have all been made aware of the opportunity, alongside an ambitious Championship side eager to make a statement.
Angel Gomes of England runs during a training session (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
For West Ham, Gomes would represent a stylistic shift rather than a like-for-like addition.
The Hammers have often relied on power and directness in midfield, but Gomes offers something different, creativity, close control, and the ability to dictate tempo in advanced areas.
His arrival could give the club greater flexibility against low blocks, particularly in matches where patience and technical quality are required.
A return to English football is also understood to appeal to the player. Having come through the youth ranks at Manchester United, Gomes is ready for the opportunity to prove himself in the Premier League.
Liverpool’s late activity in the transfer market appears to be gathering pace, with the club stepping up efforts to reinforce their defensive options ahead of the deadline.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the Reds are in active talks to sign Lutsharel Geertruida, a player well known to head coach Arne Slot from their successful spell together at Feyenoord.
Liverpool’s renewed interest is closely tied to their current injury situation. With Jeremie Frimpong sidelined and Conor Bradley ruled out until the end of the season, depth in the wide defensive areas has become a pressing concern.
That context has pushed Liverpool into the market, and Geertruida has quickly emerged as a leading candidate due to both availability and tactical suitability.
Liverpool have already started talks to sign Geertruida
Romano reports that Liverpool are already engaged in club-to-club discussions, with initial contacts made over a potential late move that could be completed before Monday’s deadline.
While negotiations remain ongoing, the familiarity between Slot and Geertruida is believed to be a key factor driving the pursuit forward.
The Dutch manager trusted Geertruida heavily during his time in Rotterdam, using him as a versatile defensive option capable of operating at right-back, centre-back, or in a hybrid role depending on the system.
Geertruida spent the first six years of his professional career at Feyenoord, three of them under Slot’s guidance.
During that period, he developed into one of the Eredivisie’s most reliable defenders and played an important role in Feyenoord’s title-winning 2022/23 campaign.
Lutsharel Geertruida of Sunderland (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
His tactical discipline, comfort in possession, and ability to step into midfield during build-up phases mathes closely with Slot’s footballing principles.
This season’s situation, however, has been less straightforward. Geertruida is currently on loan with an option to buy from RB Leipzig, while also having featured prominently for Sunderland.
OGC Nice winger Jeremie Boga has landed in Turin to undergo medical tests with Juventus.
Ex-Sassuolo and Atalanta winger Boga is undergoing medical tests with Juventus.
Boga set to sign for Juventus
ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 03: Jeremie Boga of OGC Nice scores his team’s first goal during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 match between S.S. Lazio and OGC Nice at Stadio Olimpico on October 03, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
As reported by Gazzetta and other reputable Italian media, including Romeo Agresti and Fabrizio Romano, the 29-year-old will complete a loan move until the end of the season.
Boga arrived at Juventus’ private clinic J Medical on Sunday morning to undergo medical tests with the Bianconeri.
Boga has collected two goals and two assists in 20 appearances across all competitions with Nice this season.
The future of Dayot Upamecano is attracting attention as the Bayern Munich defender is set to become a free agent in the summer.
According to TEAMtalk, a host of major sides, including Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Inter, have all held discussions with Upamecano’s camp.
The widespread interest reflects both the player’s standing at the top level and the uncertainty surrounding his contract situation in Munich.
Upamecano’s current deal with Bayern Munich is set to expire in the summer, and while Bayern have tabled a renewal proposal, the club have made it clear that the offer will not remain on the table indefinitely.
Liverpool & Chelsea show interest in Dayot Upamecano
From Bayern’s perspective, the stakes are high. Upamecano has been a regular figure in their back line when fit, trusted in domestic competition and on the European stage.
Losing him on a free transfer would represent a significant financial and sporting blow, particularly at a time when elite centre-backs are commanding premium fees across the market.
For the interested clubs, the appeal is obvious. Premier League sides see Upamecano as a ready-made option with Champions League experience, while Spain and Italy’s giants are alert to the rare chance of landing a proven defender without a transfer fee.
Bayern Munich appear worried about the French defender
Dayot Upamecano in action for Bayern Munich (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Even if Bayern remain confident of reaching an agreement, the sheer volume of interest has understandably raised concerns inside the club.
For Upamecano himself, the coming weeks could define the next phase of his career.
Staying at Bayern would offer continuity and a familiar environment, but the opportunity to test himself in a new league, potentially as a defensive leader, is a tempting proposition.
His decision will also influence Bayern’s wider squad planning, as a failure to secure an extension would force them into the market sooner than anticipated.
As negotiations continue, Bayern’s deadline adds urgency to an already tense situation.
Liverpool’s defensive planning may be taking shape behind the scenes, with reports from Sky Sports Italia suggesting the club have made an initial enquiry to Inter Milan regarding the availability of right-back Denzel Dumfries.
The approach is understood to be exploratory rather than advanced, but it highlights Liverpool’s growing awareness of potential changes in the right-back market.
Dumfries, now 29, has been a key figure for Inter since joining from PSV in 2021, playing a major role in their domestic and European success over recent seasons.
However, his current campaign has been disrupted by an ankle injury sustained in November, limiting both his availability and rhythm during a demanding schedule.
Denzel Dumfries is being targeted by Liverpool
Dumfries has made appearances across Serie A and European competition, though his minutes have been managed carefully since returning from injury.
He regularly contributes goals and assists from wing-back positions, a trait that has long attracted Premier League interest.
From Liverpool’s perspective, any serious move would be closely linked to developments elsewhere in their squad.
Much depends on the fitness and long-term outlook of Jeremie Frimpong, whose injury status is believed to be a key factor in shaping recruitment decisions.
Liverpool have increasingly prioritised full-backs who can provide width, intensity, and end product in advanced areas, qualities Dumfries offers in abundance when operating at full capacity.
Tactically, Dumfries would represent a different profile to Liverpool’s existing right-back options. His physicality, aerial strength, and direct running could add an alternative dimension.
Should the Reds move for the experienced Inter star?
Denzel Dumfries applauds the Inter Milan fans (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
That said, his age and recent injury record mean any deal would require careful assessment, both medically and financially.
Inter, for their part, are not actively pushing Dumfries out of the door. The Serie A side value his experience and leadership, but they are also mindful of squad evolution and market opportunities.
Arsenal’s long-term attacking plans may be heading towards a crucial change, with reports suggesting the club are exploring creative ways to compete for one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards.
According to TEAMtalk, the Gunners have discussed the possibility of including Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli as part of a potential deal to sign Julian Alvarez from Atlético Madrid.
The mere suggestion shows how ambitious Arsenal’s recruitment strategy has become under Mikel Arteta.
Álvarez has developed into one of the most complete forwards in Europe, combining relentless work rate with elite-level finishing and intelligent movement.
Since arriving at Atlético, he has remained a regular fixture in Diego Simeone’s system, contributing goals and assists.
Arsenal are looking for reliable striker to lead their attack
Julian Alvarez celebrates scoring for Atletico Madrid (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
For Arsenal, the interest reflects a desire to add a genuinely elite No.9 who can elevate them in the biggest matches.
The Gunners signed Viktor Gyokeres in a big money move last summer but it appears like they are not fully convinced with his performances this season.
Although Gyokeres scored for Arteta’s team in their latest win, a comfortable 4-0 win against Leeds United, the constant reports of Arsenal looking for a striker perhaps shows that Gyokeres has not convinced them.
Including an established player in negotiations could be seen as a calculated attempt to bridge the valuation gap and make their proposal more attractive to Atlético.
Both Jesus and Martinelli have been linked with uncertain futures at the Emirates.
Jesus has endured an injury-disrupted campaign, limiting his run of starts and rhythm.
Martinelli, meanwhile, has experienced fluctuating form, alternating between decisive contributions and quieter spells.
Atlético are believed to admire both players, viewing them as profiles capable of adapting to La Liga’s tactical demands.
However, Arsenal face stiff competition. Barcelona are reportedly Álvarez’s preferred destination should he leave Madrid, while Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea have also been contacted by intermediaries.
Financial power and sporting guarantees elsewhere mean Arsenal would need a compelling sporting project and possibly a player-plus-cash structure to gain an edge.
A potential January exit for Brahim Díaz is emerging as a realistic scenario at Real Madrid, with the player’s limited involvement this season prompting renewed transfer discussions across Europe.
Opportunities have been hard to come by during the current campaign for the Morocco international.
Competition for places remains fierce, and Díaz has struggled to secure a consistent run of starts.
As a result, his representatives have begun exploring options elsewhere, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
England is viewed as the preferred destination should a winter move materialise, largely due to the promise of regular minutes and a more defined attacking role.
Real Madrid are firmly in the middle of a title race and are understandably reluctant to weaken their squad depth midway through the season.
However, they are not entirely opposed to a sale if their valuation is met. Madrid are seeking a fee in the region of €60 million.
Newcastle United need a versatile player like Díaz
Brahim Diaz in action for Real Madrid (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Since returning from international duty at AFCON, his role has been even more limited, further fuelling speculation that a change of scenery may be in his best interests.
He is a versatile player that Eddie Howe would love at Newcastle United. His ability to play across the front line is something that the Magpies need.
His technical skill set, ability to operate in multiple attacking roles, and experience at the highest level make him an attractive proposition for the clubs looking to sign him.
Real Madrid’s stance will likely depend on timing and offers. Should the right bid arrive, a deal could suit all parties.
Pisa have officially announced the dismissal of coach Alberto Gilardino after managing just one victory in 23 Serie A games.
There had been reports swirling around on Saturday evening that the 3-1 home defeat to Sassuolo would be the final straw in a situation that had become increasingly untenable.
The club released a formal statement late into the night confirming that Gilardino had been sacked from his position and they are seeking a new coach.
Gilardino fired by rock bottom Pisa
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Fans of Pisa Sporting Club let off flares during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
He had taken over in the summer following their promotion from Serie B, a return to the top flight after several decades in the Calcio wilderness.
However, Gilardino oversaw just one win, 11 draws and 11 losses this season in Serie A.
There was also one victory and one defeat in the Coppa Italia.
Despite the serious Giovanni Di Lorenzo injury, Napoli will reportedly go ahead and complete the swoop for Sporting CP wide striker Alisson Santos, on loan with option to buy for a total €20m.
Di Lorenzo was stretchered off during today’s 2-1 win over Fiorentina and coach Antonio Conte suggested they fear he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli injured during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Alisson Santos of Sporting Clube de Portugal battles for possession with Leonardo Spinazzola of SSC Napoli during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between SSC Napoli and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
However, Sky Sport Italia claim that will not change their transfer strategy, so the focus remains on investing in a new attacking wide man.
That will be Alisson Santos, who is expected to arrive over the weekend on loan for €3.5m from Sporting CP.
There is an option to buy that is not an obligation, which would bring the entire cost of the operation to circa €20m.
The 23-year-old Brazilian is right-footed and attacks down the left flank, scoring three goals with two assists in 30 competitive games this season.
There are growing reports that Pisa could pull the plug on Alberto Gilardino following today’s defeat to Sassuolo, with Marco Giampaolo approached to take over.
The newly-promoted club knew it would be a tough campaign, but find themselves in joint last place alongside Hellas Verona after 23 rounds.
Gilardino struggling to turn Pisa around
NAPLES, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 22: Alberto Gilardino Pisa SC heaad coach greets Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Pisa SC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on September 22, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
They were beaten 3-1 by Sassuolo this afternoon on home turf and now have just one victory, 11 draws and 11 defeats in Serie A this season.
Gilardino was sitting out a one-match touchline ban and so had to watch from the stands.
Nonetheless, it was unusual that Pisa did not send anyone to speak with the media after the final whistle.
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 12: Marco Giampaolo, Head Coach of US Lecce, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Juventus and Lecce at Allianz Stadium on April 12, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
According to Sky Sport Italia, the club is losing faith in Gilardino’s ability to turn this situation around and a decision could be made to axe him within 48 hours.
The first choice to take over is Giampaolo, who has been a free agent since his experience at Lecce ended in June 2025.
His former clubs include Milan, Torino, Sampdoria, Empoli and Cremonese.
Serie A clubs were busy today as they race to wrap up deals before the transfer window closes on Monday.
Youssef Maleh joined Cremonese on loan from Lecce, Genoa activated their option to sign Leo Ostigard on a permanent deal and Cyril Ngonge and Luca Marianucci left Napoli on loan moves.
Which transfers were announced in Serie A on January 31, 2026?
Football Italia takes a look at every confirmed transfer involving clubs from Italy’s top flight today.
Ostigard joined Genoa on a permanent basis for just €5 million, after impressing on loan so far this season. Ngonge joined Espanyol on loan for €2 million, whilst M’Bala Nzola joins Sassuolo on loan from Fiorentina.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – OCTOBER 29: Cyril Ngonge of Torino FC during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Torino FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on October 29, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Lecce saw two players leave today, with Frenchman Balthazar Pierret returning to his home country with Red Star FC in Ligue 2, and Maleh joining fellow Serie A side Cremonese on loan until the end of the season.
All Serie A transfers confirmed on January 31, 2026
Balthazar Pierret – Lecce to Red Star FC (Undsc.)
Sandro Kulenovic – Dinamo Zagreb to Torino (Loan €500,000)
M’Bala Nzola – Fiorentina to Sassuolo (Loan)
Leo Ostigard – Stade Rennes to Genoa (€5 million)
Luca Marianucci – Napoli to Torino (Loan)
Youssef Maleh – Lecce to Cremonese (Loan)
Stefan Mitrovic – Verona to Asteras Aktor (Loan)
Cyril Ngonge – Napoli to Espanyol (Loan €2 million)
Cagliari put themselves comfortably mid-table with a spectacular Semih Kilicsoy scissor-kick volley the highlight of their 4-0 win against 10-man Hellas Verona.
This was a big relegation tussle, as Hellas were in joint last place with Pisa going into this weekend, while the Sardinians had broken away following back-to-back wins over Juventus and Fiorentina. Michael Folorunsho, Andrea Belotti and Mattia Felici were still out injured, while the visitors missed Rafik Belghali, Armel Bella-Kotchap and Tomas Suslov.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Elia Caprile and Mina Yerry of Cagliari shake hands during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 31, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Mazzitelli had the first real chance with a well-taken volley from the D, which Simone Perilli had to fingertip round the base of the near post at full stretch.
Roberto Gagliardini was struggling after an early knock to the ribs and eventually had to be substituted, so new signing Sandi Lovric made his debut just hours after completing the transfer from Udinese.
Cagliari opened the scoring when Marco Palestra rode two tackles to pull back from the by-line, Adam Obert intelligently saw Mazzitelli behind him and provided the assist with a back-heel flick to drill in at the near post.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Luca Mazzitelli of Cagliari scores his goal 1-0 during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 31, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Sebastiano Esposito fired just over from the edge of the box following another strong Palestra run down the right, then Semih Kilicsoy had the ball in the net with a spectacular scissor-kick volley at the back post on Esposito’s cross after a corner. At first, he was flagged offside, but that decision was reversed following the VAR review.
Things went from bad to worse for Verona, as Amin Sarr received his second yellow card. Both were for clumsy rather than malicious challenges, going in late on first Mazzitelli and then Ze Pedro.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Gift Emmanuel Orban of Hellas Verona in action during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 31, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Nonetheless, Hellas threatened with Daniel Mosquera’s deflected finish looping up, forcing Elia Caprile to fingertip it over the bar.
Perilli scrambled across to push a Sebastiano Luperto snapshot round the near post and Lovric’s Verona debut did not last long, as he went off with a minor injury.
Cagliari added a third late on when Perilli made an extraordinary reaction save on Michel Adopo’s header from a corner, but could do nothing on Ibrahim Sulemana’s follow-up.
Verona visibly lost all confidence and capitulated to a fourth in the final minute, as Gabriele Zappa whipped a cross from the right for Riyad Idrissi to nod in from close range. He only has two Serie A goals, both scored against Verona.
Alessio Romagnoli is set to stay at Lazio after a chaotic final day of the Qatari transfer window saw the deal go from off, to on, to off again, in the space of a few hours.
Al-Sadd, where Italian Roberto Mancini now coaches, were close to completing the deal.
Reports from Manuel Baiocchini, and later confirmed by Gianluca Di Marzio, claim that the agreement between the two clubs had been reached, contracts had been signed but that there was not enough time for the Qatari side to file the transfer before the window slammed shut.
Therefore, Romagnoli will now likely return to Lazio, in strange circumstances.
LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Alessio Romagnoli of SS Lazio after the Serie A match between US Lecce and SS Lazio at Stadio Via del Mare on January 24, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Romagnoli saga drags on, Al-Sadd pay the price
The sage was a complicated and drawn out one.
Originally, Al-Sadd were reported to be interested and Romagnoli interested in joining up with Mancini in Qatar.
Then, Lazio posted a sensational statement on their official channels to claim that no such transfer would be happening and that Romagnoli would stay at the club, where he is contracted.
Romagnoli said goodbye to fans at the end of Lazio’s draw with Lecce and was left out of the squad that faced Genoa on Friday – although he did watch on from the stands.
LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 24: After the Serie A match between US Lecce and SS Lazio at Stadio Via del Mare on January 24, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Earlier today, it was reported that Lazio had finally accepted an offer from Al-Sadd for the centre-back and that the green light had been given, yet it was clear the Qatari side had to act quickly.
The Qatari window shut this evening, earlier than in other countries, and Al-Sadd and Romagnoli lost out because there was not enough time to get the deal done.
It now leaves a rather awkward situation where Romagnoli must return to the club he had said his goodbyes to, despite everything being in place for him to leave.
Ademola Lookman is edging closer to Atletico Madrid, after reports the Spanish side improved their personal terms and agreed a deal with Atalanta, unlike Fenerbahce.
The Nigeria international had been trying to push for the exit over the summer towards Inter, but La Dea wouldn’t sell to a direct competitor within Serie A for under €50m.
Lookman torn between Atletico Madrid and Fenerbahce
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta controls the ball whilst under pressure from Moises Caicedo of Chelsea during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Atalanta BC and Chelsea FC at Stadio di Bergamo on December 09, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
He had seemed to be ready for Fenerbahce in January, but the Turkish team would not provide the financial guarantees demanded by Atalanta.
This would reportedly be a €40m package with most of the money upfront, as much as €35m.
BERGAMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 22: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Atalanta BC and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio di Bergamo on October 22, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Lookman had at first resisted the idea, as he had already agreed personal terms with Fenerbahce, with reports they were offering him €9m per season plus bonuses.
This evening, Sportitalia, Sky Sport Italia, Fabrizio Romano and Sports Digitale all report that Atletico Madrid improved their proposal to Lookman, who is beginning to open the door to the Colchoneros.
The player was left out of the squad for tomorrow’s Serie A match against Como, so that he can focus on these last-minute negotiations.
Atalanta also favour Atletico Madrid because they already did business in January with Giacomo Raspadori’s move to Bergamo.
Antonio Vergara is the man of the moment at the minute in Naples.
Napoli are currently going through the motions as the Scudetto holders face a growing injury list, an awkward early exit from the UEFA Champions League and a real fight on their hands to retain the Serie A trophy.
However, if there was one silver lining amongst all these dark clouds it would be the impressive performances of Vergara.
The 23-year-old had not played a senior minute for the Partenopei before this season, and spent the last two seasons on loan with Reggiana in Serie B.
Despite this, it is Vergara who has won the heart of Naples in the last couple of weeks.
Vergara thrust into the limelight for Napoli but thrives
On Saturday, Vergara scored again, this time in Napoli’s 2-1 win against Fiorentina, that helped ease the pressure on the side after the disappointing Champions League exit. The Italian also assisted the other goal on the night, as he continues to impress.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Antonio Vergara of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
It is strange, though, that his opportunity was only really born out of the ongoing injury crisis in Naples.
Without the circumstances, it was unlikely Vergara was going to see much first team football this season and, at 23-years-old, he is moving past the point of being sent out on loan again and again but Napoli.
When Napoli have a full roster again, it will be interesting to see whether Conte rewards Vergara’s impressive run of form with more minutes, or if he falls back down the pecking order completely.
What does the future hold for Vergara?
Regardless of that, Vergara can only gain from his continued performances – in the sense that he may be able to convince another Serie A side to take a gamble on him – and Napoli may choose to cash in if he’s not deemed of the right level for the first team.
A move to a club like Genoa or Sassuolo could suit the Italian, where he would be able to get more game time than at Napoli and I would not be surprised if this was the case.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Antonio Vergara of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
We shall see what happens – and obviously it feels exceedingly premature to be having these sorts of hypothetical conversations about a player with just 12 appearances to his name for Napoli.
However, Vergara is winning the hearts of Napoli fans and impressing pundits, and right now he is a much needed breath of fresh air in Naples.
Torino have officially signed Sandro Kulenovic from GNK Dinamo Zagreb and Luca Marianucci from Napoli, but deals for Tottenham’s Callum Olusesi and Kevin Jappert of Barracas Central stalled.
The Granata are having a very active spell on the transfer market as we approach the January deadline.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan is challenged by Luca Marianucci of Napoli during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Marianucci completed his loan move from Napoli and there is no option to make it permanent at the end of the season.
The Croatian centre-forward turned 26 last month and the cost of the operation is believed to be circa €4m.
Torino hits and misses on the transfer market
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Torino FC coach Marco Baroni during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Torino FC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 24, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
However, other transfers are proving decidedly more difficult for Torino to complete.
Instead, the Granata turned towards Atletico Rafaele-owned Jappert, but Sky Sport Italia warn that too has run into issues.
He is currently on loan at Barracas Central, who have seemingly refused to let him interrupt that experience early.
The same source also reports that Torino had agreed a loan with option to buy for Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Olusesi, and he even flew in for a medical on Friday, but problems emerged to stall the whole thing.
Paolo Vanoli feels Fiorentina ‘deserved something more’ from their 2-1 defeat to Napoli and is open to a new heavy strike partnership in future.
The Viola had been revitalised in 2026, but have now lost three on the bounce in all competition after defeats to Cagliari, then Como in the Coppa Italia, and this evening Napoli.
Antonio Vergara and Miguel Gutierrez had put the Partenopei 2-0 up, but Manor Solomon got one back and set up a tense finale at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Vanoli saw Fiorentina progress against Napoli
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Paolo Vanoli ACF Fiorentina head coach with his player Pietro Comuzzo during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“We need to stay in the game more, because I said that the first half would mean suffering under pressure, we shouldn’t have conceded that goal,” Vanoli told DAZN Italia.
“Individual errors are becoming very damaging at the moment. We did better after the restart and in my view deserved something more.”
Moise Kean was only fit for the bench, but when he came on as a substitute, formed a new partnership with Roberto Piccoli.
When both are fit, is it possible for Fiorentina to start them together upfront?
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Alessandro Buongiorno of SSC Napoli battles for possession with Roberto Piccoli of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“At times, Roberto struggled with the step up to a club like Fiorentina, but he works hard and I liked the pairing this evening,” replied Vanoli.
“Now we’ve got to get Moise back to full fitness. We are a decent team now, but need to whittle down those little errors that saw us drop points against Lazio and Milan.
“We always struggled against the smaller sides because we didn’t have enough balance, so in those fixtures we’ll understand if we have really improved.”
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Manor Solomon of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Vanoli is no stranger to Antonio Conte’s tactics, as he was part of the Napoli coach’s staff at Chelsea and Inter before going it alone.
With this in mind, he had a warm hug with ex-Inter striker Romelu Lukaku after the final whistle.
“Those were good memories, I was Conte’s assistant at Inter and Romelu was an important part of that squad. When a player comes over to hug you, it means you gave them something special in their career.”
Antonio Conte confirms Giovanni Di Lorenzo has probably torn his ACL, then lashes out angrily at Napoli directors, UEFA and more. ‘We need a bigger squad, otherwise it’s suicide.’
The Partenopei were in dire need of a boost after back-to-back defeats against Juventus in Serie A and Chelsea in the Champions League, the latter sealing their early elimination.
Antonio Vergara scored his first senior Napoli goal in that midweek tie and this evening got his first in Serie A, followed by Miguel Gutierrez for a 2-1 victory over Fiorentina.
Conte confirms season probably over for Di Lorenzo
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli injured during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
There was bad news too for Napoli, as captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo was stretchered off in agony after his left knee seemed to hyper-extend, prompting fears of ligament damage.
“There’s not much we can say, it’s game upon game upon game, we have to keep using players who ought to be rested and yet can’t, it leads to these situations,” Conte told DAZN Italia.
“I tore my cruciate ligament, I know it’s a traumatic injury. I continue to say playing all these matches, it kills the players and kills football.
“Now there are restrictions on who you can have in the squad, and ours is even smaller because we don’t have many players from the youth academy, and the ones we do have want to go out on loan to play more regularly.
“We pulled Vergara out the hat, then there are age limits, but if we have to play 60 games per year, we need a bigger squad, otherwise it’s suicide.”
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Albert Gudmundsson of ACF Fiorentina battles for possession with Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Di Lorenzo has not had the tests yet, but Conte suggests the initial feedback from the medical staff is very bad indeed.
“The sensation is he’s done serious damage to his knee and it’s the cruciate ligament. It’s nasty. You know full well what Di Lorenzo means for us.
“People say I complain, but we’re doing anything but complaining considering this is an infinite series of injuries. They are bad injuries too, not just muscular ones for 2-4 weeks out, these are serious.
“We are managing to plug the holes because these lads are doing extraordinary things. Once again, there weren’t many options on the bench.”
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Miguel Gutierrez of SSC Napoli celebrates with his head coach Antonio Conte after scoring his side second goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Conte then lashed out at the Napoli hierarchy, but at the football calendar in general with the expanded Champions League and Supercoppa Italiana.
“Clubs don’t seem to understand it’s like a dog chasing its own tail. You fight to qualify for all these tournaments to get more money, but it’s ephemeral, because the more competitions you are in, the more players you have to buy, the more the wage bill goes up.
“If they don’t understand that, then football will go in a bad direction and leads to this sort of thing. I don’t just mean Napoli, I am speaking out in general to defend players and it’s a shame everyone turns their backs on players in favour of the clubs, leagues, UEFA, etc. I say this as an ex-player.”
This is a team already stretched thin without Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, David Neres, Matteo Politano, Amir Rrahmani, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Miguel Gutierrez of SSC Napoli celebrates with his head coach Antonio Conte and Juan Jesus after scoring his side second goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
When Di Lorenzo was injured, why did Conte introduce Mathias Olivera rather than centre-back Sam Beukema?
“I introduced Mathias because right now he gives me more guarantees than Beukema, that’s it,” shrugged the Napoli coach.
“We are talking about a team trying to do its best with what we have at our disposal. Fortunately, we picked up these points, but if the season had started today and we had this squad, what position do you think Napoli would be challenging for? Be realistic.
“We have the Coppa Italia, we want to qualify for Europe, but it becomes very difficult, especially as the other clubs are bringing in reinforcements, while we are under a transfer embargo.
“That is just fantastic,” added Conte sarcastically. “We are the only club running at a profit of €240m and are banned from making transfers.
“Honestly, I am really p***ed off about Di Lorenzo, so it’s best we wrap this up or I’ll say something else and get into trouble.”
Napoli bounced back from their midweek Champions League exit to pick up an important three points in Serie A with a 2-1 win against Fiorentina.
Young forward Antonio Vergara, only really in the squad because of the extensive injuries to Antonio Conte’s squad, impressed once again and was Football Italia’s Player of the Match with a goal and an assist.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Miguel Gutierrez of SSC Napoli celebrates with his head coach Antonio Conte and Juan Jesus after scoring his side second goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Napoli 2-1 Fiorentina – Player Ratings
Napoli: Meret 7; Di Lorenzo 6 (Olivera 5.5), Juan Jesus 6, Buongiorno 6; Gutierrez 7, Lobotka 6, McTominay 6.5, Spinazzola 6; Vergara 8 (Giovane N/A), Elmas 6.5; Hojlund 6
Best Napoli player: Antonio Vergara – The youngster once again shines after his impressive solo goal against Chelsea during the week. Tonight he scored a goal and assisted the other, effectively winning his side the three points.
Lowest Napoli rating: Mathias Olivera – Came on for the injured Di Lorenzo in the first half but struggled a little. Was not bad but struggled to get the better of his marker.
Coach: Antonio Conte 6.5 – Still working with a very limited squad, and off the back of an exhausting 90 minutes against Napoli during the week, the coach did well to secure the three points.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Manor Solomon of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Best Fiorentina player: Manor Solomon – Scored Fiorentina’s goal and looked more dangerous than the rest of Fiorentina’s offensive players. Was not overly involved put did not put a foot wrong when he did have possession.
Lowest Fiorentina rating: Pietro Comuzzo – The young defender was disappointing this evening, in keeping with recent form. He struggled in his duels, both on the ground and in the air, and was beaten far too easily on more than one occasion.
Coach: Paolo Vanoli 6 – Set up his team well against the Champions but was unable to come away with anything to show for it. A decent display from the Viola coach, all things considered.
Antonio Vergara and Miguel Gutierrez got their first ever Serie A goals to put Napoli back on track against Fiorentina, but Giovanni Di Lorenzo was stretchered off.
The Partenopei were coming off back-to-back defeats to Juventus and Chelsea, the latter sealing their Champions League elimination midweek. The epic injury crisis meant there was no room for squad rotation, as Vanja Milinkovic-Savic was only fit for the bench, with David Neres, Matteo Politano, Amir Rrahmani, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour out. The Viola also lost two on the bounce, 2-1 to Cagliari in Serie A and a Coppa Italia exit to Como. Tariq Lamptey was the only absentee, as Moise Kean returned to the bench after an ankle issue.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Antonio Vergara of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Miguel Gutierrez volleyed just wide from the edge of the area, but Napoli broke through with an emotional moment for Vergara. The hometown player scored his first Champions League goal against Chelsea, and here got his first in Serie A.
The long Alex Meret ball was meant to be for Rasmus Hojlund, but as Marin Pongracic brought him down, it kept going with Vergara sprinting clear to beat the on-rushing David De Gea.
Scott McTominay’s acrobatic bicycle kick went over the bar, while Pongracic charged down another Vergara strike.
Hojlund twice tried to tap in a roll across from the right, but it was charged down right on the line by Pietro Comuzzo, who deflected it onto the base of the upright.
Moments later, Fiorentina had a huge double opportunity from a free kick, as first Roberto Piccoli’s header bounced off the upright, then the move continued and Alex Meret made an extraordinary reaction save on Albert Gudmundsson from point-blank range.
During that move, Giovanni Di Lorenzo’s left knee buckled and he was stretchered off in agony, replaced by Mathias Olivera.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli injured during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Eljif Elmas rode three tackles for a shot deflected by Marco Brescianini, then McTominay tested De Gea on the rebound, while Hojlund struck the side-netting on a Vergara lay-off.
Rolando Mandragora came on and immediately skimmed the upright with a free kick, but Napoli doubled their lead instead.
Vergara spread the play down the right for Miguel Gutierrez, who cut inside Robin Gosens and bent a left-foot finish into the far bottom corner, with De Gea perhaps unsighted.
Fiorentina did get one back when Dodo sent Piccoli through the middle, forcing a Meret save, but Manor Solomon was ready to turn in the rebound.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Manor Solomon of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Hojlund twice aimed weak finishes into the arms of De Gea, while Kean was offside when he dribbled around Meret to clip the outside of the upright.
Kean did force a tricky save out of Meret at the near post moments later, and Mandragora’s strike was charged down from the resulting corner.
A deflected McTominay attempt was tricky for De Gea and Giovane’s volley was charged down, but Piccoli turned wide when off balance in stoppages from six yards on a Dodo cross.
Kean sprung the offside trap on Fagioli’s floated ball only to scuff the angled drive wide after a heavy first touch.
However, Palace are now reluctant to give the green light to any departure until they secure a suitable alternative up front, as per Sky Sport Italia.
The Premier League side are wary of weakening their squad mid-season, especially with limited time left in the window and a thin market for proven centre-forwards.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 18: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Crystal Palace FC and KuPS Kuopio at Selhurst Park on December 18, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Mateta unhappy as Crystal Palace block Milan move
The Eagles completed a loan move For Aston Villa forward Evann Guessand on Friday but the London club likely want a more substantial replacement before letting their star forward leave.
As a result, negotiations have slowed, leaving Milan waiting to see whether conditions can change in the coming days.
For the Rossoneri, Mateta remains a concrete target, but the deal now depends less on financial terms and more on Palace’s ability to solve their own attacking needs first.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 04: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace looks on prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Crystal Palace at St James’ Park on January 04, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
A breakthrough is still possible, though the situation has become significantly more complicated.
Mateta, meanwhile, is unhappy with the situation. Taking to Instagram to vent his frustration with a story featuring a very stroppy emoji.
AC Milan have secured the long-term future of captain Mike Maignan, with the goalkeeper putting pen to paper on a new contract that runs until June 2031.
In an official statement, the club confirmed they were “delighted to announce the renewal of Mike Maignan’s contract until 30 June 2031,” highlighting his leadership, reliability and importance both on and off the pitch.
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 15: Mike Maignan of AC Milan celebrates his team-mates goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AC Milan at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Maignan signs new Milan deal
Since arriving in 2021, Maignan has grown into a cornerstone of the Rossoneri project, becoming captain and one of the most influential figures in the dressing room.
The France international has made 188 appearances for Milan so far and played a decisive role in the 2021-22 Scudetto triumph, later adding a Supercoppa Italiana to his honours.
Individually, he was also named Serie A’s best goalkeeper in his debut season in Italy, underlining the impact he made immediately after replacing Gianluigi Donnarumma.
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 15: Mike Maignan of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AC Milan at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The renewal puts an end to speculation over his future, with several European heavyweights, such as Chelsea, previously linked with a move.
Instead, Maignan has chosen continuity, committing himself to the club’s long-term ambitions as Milan look to build around a core of experienced leaders and emerging talent.
The Partenopei were leading 1-0 through an Antonio Vergara goal and had just seen Roberto Piccoli’s header bounce off the upright when Di Lorenzo went to charge down an effort.
As he landed, his left knee seemed to buckle under him, and he immediately called to the bench for medical assistance.
Napoli worried by Di Lorenzo injury
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 07: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli celebrates and shows the Supercoppa Italia to his supporters before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 07, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The captain was visibly in a great deal of pain as he was loaded onto a stretcher and taken away by ambulance, where he will undergo tests at the local hospital.
It is just the latest blow in an epic injury crisis at Napoli, who are already missing Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, David Neres, Amir Rrahmani, Matteo Politano, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour.
Ademola Lookman’s future at Atalanta has suddenly become one of the hottest transfer sagas of the window, with both Fenerbahce and Atletico Madrid pushing to sign the Nigerian forward.
However, the negotiations have reportedly stalled over payment terms. Atalanta are said to want a larger portion of the fee paid upfront, while the Turkish side prefer a more staggered structure.
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta runs with the ball away from Elia Caprile of Cagliari during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Transfer battle erupts for Lookman as Atletico & Fenerbahce tussle
According to those same sources, via Sport Mediaset, Fenerbahce are reluctant to alter their proposed schedule and are now waiting on Atalanta’s final stance.
At the same time, Atletico Madrid have also struck an agreement in principle with the Bergamo club on a similar overall package.
The key difference appears to be the financial structure, with the Spanish side not facing the same demands regarding advance payments.
Despite that, the move is far from done, as the player himself has not yet fully opened the door to joining the Colchoneros.
BERGAMO, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC controls the ball whilst under pressure from Niccolo Fortini of Fiorentina during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and ACF Fiorentina at Gewiss Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The reports claim that Atletico’s proposed salary is nowhere near that of the Turkish Super Lig side, giving Lookman further food for thought.
With two clubs circling and negotiations running on parallel tracks, Lookman’s omission from the Atalanta squad has only fuelled speculation that an exit could be imminent. The coming days are likely to be decisive as all parties try to find a formula that works.
Roberto De Zerbi’s time at Olympique Marseille could be coming to an end, and new Fiorentina director Fabio Paratici reportedly wants to bring him back to Serie A.
There had already been rumours in France over the last few days that De Zerbi had handed in his resignation and asked to leave Marseille following their Champions League elimination.
That was seemingly rejected by the club, but the situation remains tense and the Italian is expected to walk away at the end of the season.
De Zerbi could return to Serie A
MARSEILLE, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 25: Roberto De Zerbi, head coach of Olympique de Marseille reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Olympique de Marseille and Newcastle United FC at Stade de Marseille on November 25, 2025 in Marseille, France. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
According to Calciomercato.it, new Fiorentina director Paratici has plans to bring De Zerbi back to Serie A at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
It would be from next term, assuming of course that current boss Paolo Vanoli manages to keep them in the top flight.
The Italian coach has not worked in Italy since leaving Sassuolo on 2021, having experiences abroad for Shakhtar Donetsk, Brighton and Hove Albion, and since 2024 at Olympique Marseille.
Antonio Conte admits he has mixed feelings about Napoli’s Champions League exit, because it would’ve been ‘honestly impossible’ to continue with more games during the injury crisis.
This evening they host Fiorentina at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
The Partenopei only have Serie A and the Coppa Italia to focus on now, as the 3-2 defeat to Chelsea here saw them eliminated from the Champions League just 67 hours ago.
Conte sees Napoli ‘on right track’
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 28: Antonio Conte, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, reacts from the technical area during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between SSC Napoli and Chelsea FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 28, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
“I tried to evaluate the game with them, which I thought was very positive,” Conte told DAZN Italia.
“We created many chances and were not suitably rewarded for them, so we have regrets at going out of this competition. At the same time, we must gain belief from seeing we are on the right track at a European level, so can achieve great satisfaction.
“Like every journey, you need a bit of luck, and we are still missing a lot of players. There are things we can learn and develop so that in future we can do better.”
The injury crisis continues to take its toll, ruling out Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, David Neres, Matteo Politano, Amir Rrahmani, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour.
NAPOLI, ITALY – AUGUST 31: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli talks with his coach Antonio Conte during the Serie A match between Napoli and Parma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on August 31, 2024 in Napoli, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Luca Marianucci officially completed his loan to Torino today, but how long will it take for Romelu Lukaku to be ready for Napoli?
“Lukaku played 19 minutes over two games. Romelu had a really nasty injury, he is speeding up the recovery process, but we need patience and will try to set up some midweek friendlies to get him back to match fitness.
“That was difficult so far, as we had barely any training sessions and a game every three days. Romelu is an important figure both within the team and the locker room, so we hope he and others can get back to fitness.
“It’s fortunate really that the number of matches have been reduced now, otherwise it would’ve been honestly impossible to continue,” concluded Conte.
Milan are not expected to announce it until Sunday, but today Mike Maignan signed the new contract to June 2030 with option until 2031.
The goalkeeper had been on the verge of an exit over the summer, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season.
There is no shortage of clubs who want to snap up the France international as a free agent, including Chelsea, Barcelona and Manchester United.
Maignan commits his future to Milan
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 15: Mike Maignan of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AC Milan at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It will run to June 2030 and there is an option to extend until June 2031, which can be activated by the club.
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – JANUARY 06: Mike Maignan of AC Milan celebrates with the Italian Super Cup Trophy after his team’s victory in the Italian Super Cup Final between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Kingdom Arena on January 06, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Napoli try to put Champions League disappointment behind them and focus on Serie A with Rasmus Hojlund, Scott McTominay and Antonio Vergara, while Fiorentina look to Albert Gudmundsson.
CREMONA, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Coach Antonio Conte of SSC Napoli reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and SSC Napoli at Stadio Giovanni Zini on December 28, 2025 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
The Partenopei crashed out of Europe on Wednesday with their 3-2 home defeat to Chelsea, as the epic injury crisis continues to take its toll.
There is no room for squad rotation, as Vanja Milinkovic-Savic is still not fully fit, with David Neres, Matteo Politano, Amir Rrahmani, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour out.
Luca Marianucci was loaned to Torino today, with new signing Giovane on the bench after his debut as a substitute in the 3-0 defeat to Juventus.
The only changes from the side that lost to Chelsea are in position, with Miguel Gutierrez and Leonardo Spinazzola expected to swap flanks in a 3-4-2-1 formation.
Antonio Vergara continues to impress after his wonder goal against Chelsea, supporting Hojlund with Eljif Elmas.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 28: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between SSC Napoli and Chelsea FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 28, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Fiorentina remain in the relegation zone, but had certainly improved in 2026 with two wins and two draws before their 2-1 home loss to Cagliari.
They were knocked out of the Coppa Italia on Tuesday in a 3-1 defeat to Como as well.
Tariq Lamptey is the only remaining absentee, as Moise Kean is fit enough for a spot on the bench after a recurring ankle issue.
Roberto Piccoli, Dodo and Rolando Mandragora also shook off knocks, as the centre-forward had limped off during that Coppa Italia tie.
January buys Manor Solomon, Giovanni Fabbian, Marco Brescianini and Jack Harrison bolster the squad options.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 07: Robin Gosens of ACF Fiorentina celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates Albert Gudmundsson and Nicolo Fagioli during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on January 07, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Napoli vs. Fiorentina line-ups
Napoli: Meret; Di Lorenzo, Juan Jesus, Buongiorno; Gutierrez, Lobotka, McTominay, Spinazzola; Vergara, Elmas; Hojlund
Domenico Berardi made the ideal return to the starting XI, scoring and forcing an own goal in Sassuolo’s 3-1 victory away to rock bottom Pisa.
The team in last place missed suspended Arturo Calabresi and coach Alberto Gilardino, plus Adrian Semper, Raul Albiol, Daniel Denoon, Juan Cuadrado and Mateus Lusuardi after fumbling a lead to lose 6-2 with Inter. The Neroverdi were fairly comfortable mid-table, though Fali Cande, Daniel Boloca and Edoardo Pieragnolo were out of action. Domenico Berardi got his first start since November 28.
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Fans of Pisa Sporting Club let off flares during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Pisa had the ball in the net within four minutes, but full debutant Rosen Bozhinov was offside when knocking back the Antonio Caracciolo cross to the back post.
Michael Aebischer curled just wide, while Armand Lauriente tested Simone Scuffet from the tightest of angles.
It was Sassuolo who scored on the counter-attack, as Berardi got down the right and scored from a tricky angle into the roof of the net using his weaker right foot. He hadn’t found the net since November 9.
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Domenico Berardi of US Sassuolo scores a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Berardi nearly added another soon after, his volley on a Lauriente cross flashing wide, then fired inches over the bar after Kristjan Thorstvedt failed to pick the right pass.
Arijanet Muric flapped at a cross and was fortunate to parry Stefano Moreo’s follow-up, while Simone Scuffet rushed out for a desperate save on Ismael Kone from eight yards.
Sassuolo doubled their lead on the resulting corner, as Berardi’s cross-shot was accidentally deflected into his own net by Caracciolo.
Pisa made a triple change at half-time, with Mehdi Leris immediately stinging Arijanet Muric’s gloves.
The hosts got back into it when Rafia Durosinmi laid it off to the edge of the area for Michel Aebischer to thump a powerful strike into the top corner.
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Michel Aebischer of Pisa Sporting Club celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Just 60 seconds later, it was almost 2-2, but Jay Idzes sprinted back for a decisive goal-line clearance on the Leris angled drive that had beaten Muric.
Berardi also tested Scuffet at the base of the near post on the counter, and Sassuolo restored their two-goal cushion when Nemanja Matic got down the right and rolled across for Kone to sweep in first-time from 12 yards.
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Ismael Kone’ of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Berardi’s nutmeg sent Lauriente down the right, where he was bundled over by Tramoni for a penalty, but VAR showed the initial contact was just outside the box.
Andrea Pinamonti’s header flashed inches over, while a Matic scorcher was just wide.
Muric crashed into Durosinmi, who had sprung the offside trap to chest down a long ball going clear on goal. It would’ve been a red card for Sassuolo goalkeeper, but he was rescued because the Pisa striker’s kneecap was offside.
Durosinmi also should’ve done better with a glancing header well wide from six yards.
Pisa 1-3 Sassuolo
Berardi 25 (S), Caracciolo og 45 (S), Aebischer 51 (P), Kone 59 (S)
The Rossoneri are looking to the Premier League during this January transfer window, also on the verge of securing striker Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace.
Disasi has his sights set on Milan move
Axel Disasi of Chelsea of Chelsea during the UEFA Conference League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Chelsea FC and Shamrock Rovers FC at Stamford Bridge on December 19, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
It remains to be seen what terms Chelsea and the Rossoneri will be able to agree to, a loan with an option to buy at the end of the season being the most likely.
The defender turns 28 in March and spent part of last season on loan at Aston Villa.
Chelsea paid €45m to buy the Frenchman from AS Monaco in the summer of 2023, but he hasn’t played for the senior squad at all this season.
A statement from Lazio announced that tests performed at the Villa Mafalda clinic had shown a medium-grade lesion to the oblique muscle in his abdomen.
Zaccagni not expected back until March 2026
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Mattia Zaccagni of SS Lazio in action during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on February 15, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
The report from Sky Sport Italia warns this kind of injury should keep Zaccagni out of action for at least four weeks.
It is a blow to the Aquile and the Italy squad, as Zaccagni had scored four goals with one assist in 20 games this season between Serie A and the Coppa Italia.
Lazio are still missing Gil Patric and Samuel Gigot, but signed Kenneth Taylor, Daniel Maldini, Petar Ratkov and Adrian Przyborek in the January transfer window.
Manchester United are looking to improve their midfield unit with the signing of Joao Gomes from Wolves.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, they are prepared to make a late move for the 24-year-old Brazilian midfielder if the right opportunity presents itself. The player is reportedly keen on a move away from Molineux as well.
Joao Gomes could fancy a move
The opportunity to join Manchester United will be exciting for him, and it remains to be seen whether all parties can come to an agreement.
Wolves are fighting for survival in the Premier League. They are likely to go down at the end of the season, and they could lose multiple key players in the summer. Selling the Brazilian this month could fetch a substantial sum.
Manchester United are considering multiple midfield options, and it will be interesting to see whether they decide to wait until the summer transfer window. The report claims that they could decide to hold out on signing a midfielder this window and invest at the end of the season instead.
A move to Manchester United would be ideal for him as well, and he would help the Red Devils tighten up at the back and better control games in the middle of the park.
Club Brugge midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent weeks.
According to journalist Matteo Moretto, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have recently scouted the player in action. It remains to be seen whether they decide to sign the player in the near future.
Man United & Spurs are scouting Aleksandar Stankovic
Speaking on Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel, Moretto said: “Many English clubs have gone to watch him and scout him live – Tottenham, Manchester United, lots of teams.”
“But Inter are continuing to follow Stankovic’s development, and they’re staying very calm. Why? Because they have the option to bring him back home either in summer 2026 (July 2026) by paying €23 million, or in July 2027 by paying €25 million. So basically, in the end, it’s all in Inter’s hands.”
The midfielder joined the Belgian club from Inter Milan, and he has done quite well for them. Meanwhile, Inter are keeping tabs on his progress and have an option to bring him back to the club. They could sign him for a fee of €23 million at the end of the season or for a fee of €25 million in the summer of 2027. That clearly gives the Italian club an advantage in the transfer race.
Harry Kane of Bayern Munich has an attempted shot whilst under pressure from Aleksandar Stankovic of Club Brugge (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
It remains to be seen whether Manchester United or Tottenham follow up on their interest with an official proposal to complete the deal. The young midfielder can play as a defensive midfielder or a central defender. His versatility would be a huge bonus. Both clubs need more quality in the defensive midfield department, and the 20-year-old would be a long-term acquisition. They have the resources to pay more than Inter Milan, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops.
The midfielder could be attracted to playing in the Premier League, which is a huge global brand and which will attract hoards of fans looking into how to buy Tottenham vs Manchester City tickets and other big games this weekend.
It would be a huge step up for him, and he would get to play for some of the biggest clubs in the world. Manchester United need a long-term replacement for Casemiro, and signing Stanković makes a lot of sense. On the other hand, Tottenham will need to replace Yves Bissouma, who is expected to leave the club in the summer.
Arsenal are looking to improve the team with the signing of Real Madrid defender Victor Valdepenas.
According to a report from the Daily Mail, the 19-year-old is the latest target for the Premier League club, and they have been tracking him for some time.
Victor Valdepenas in action for Real Madrid (Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Real Madrid might not be keen on letting the player leave either. They are looking to build a formidable squad, and the 19-year-old could be a key part of their future.
He has the potential to become a quality defender with the right guidance. Real Madrid need more quality and depth in the defensive unit, and they might choose to hold onto the young defender. The player is unlikely to force a move away from the Spanish club, and it could be difficult for Arsenal to convince both the player and his club.
It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
There is no doubt that Arsenal are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and they have the financial muscle to get the deal done. If they can promise regular opportunities for the young defender, he could be tempted to join them.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly under pressure from the club hierarchy after the recent defeat against Manchester United.
According to Fichajes, the hierarchy has sent a firm message to the manager that he will only continue at the club next season if Arsenal manage to win the league title. The Gunners are currently on top of the league table, but their performances have been mediocre in recent weeks.
Mikel Arteta handed a warning
They have struggled to score despite spending millions of pounds on high-quality attacking players. It will be interesting to see if Arteta can get the best out of his team in the coming weeks. There is no doubt that they have a formidable squad, and they should be doing better.
The Spanish manager has spent more than £1 billion since joining the club in 2019, and he has won the FA Cup and two Community Shields. The trophy haul is quite insignificant given the investment, and he will need to deliver major trophies now. It remains to be seen whether Arsenal can win the league title or the UEFA Champions League this season. They are certainly well placed to win the league title. The likes of Manchester City have been quite mediocre, and Arsenal are firm favourites to go all the way.
Mikel Arteta applauds the Arsenal fans (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Arteta has done well to rebuild the team following their decline after the departure of Arsène Wenger. However, he needs to deliver trophies now. The club hierarchy has backed him with substantial funds and is now looking for tangible returns.
Arsenal invested in Viktor Gyökeres, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke during the summer transfer window to solve their attacking problems, but all three players have been quite poor. They need to get the best out of their new signings if they want to finish the season strongly.
It will be interesting to see if the Blues can close the deal this month. They are in desperate need of defensive reinforcements, and the 20-year-old would be a solid long-term acquisition. He has proven himself to be one of the brightest young defensive prospects in Ligue 1, and he has the quality to thrive in the Premier League as well.
Will Chelsea progress the Jacquet deal today?
Chelsea and Rennes will be in action on Saturday evening, and the Sky Sports reporter has revealed that there could be developments after their respective matches.
He wrote: “Jeremy Jacquet only wants to sign for Chelsea. Personal terms have been fully agreed. Both Chelsea and Rennes are playing on Saturday evening. Expect developments after the games.“
Chelsea will certainly hope to get the deal across the line before the window closes. He would be a long-term acquisition for them.
The Blues need to tighten up at the back if they want to do well during the second half of the campaign. They will be desperate to secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming campaign. They have had multiple injury issues at the back, and players like Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile have fallen out of favour. Chelsea will need to replace them, and signing the young Frenchman would be ideal.
The defender has also been linked to clubs like Liverpool, but it seems he is determined to move to London. The development will come as a blow to the Premier League champions and will certainly give Chelsea the encouragement to wrap up the formalities soon.
Brahim Diaz has been linked with a move away from Real Madrid in recent weeks.
The 26-year-old has struggled for regular opportunities under Alvaro Arbeloa, and he needs to move on in order to play more often.
Spurs and Villa keen on Brahim Diaz
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa would be willing to provide him with an exit route. They have already made enquiries about the availability of the Moroccan international. It remains to be seen whether they submit an offer for him in the coming days.
The 26-year-old is a versatile attacker who is capable of operating anywhere across the front three. He will add goals and creativity to the team.
Brahim Diaz in action for Real Madrid (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Tottenham are in desperate need of more quality in the final third, and the Moroccan certainly fits the profile. He could be the ideal addition for them. They have missed a dynamic attacker like him since the departure of Son Heung-min.
The opportunity to join Tottenham will be exciting for the Moroccan as well. He will look to prove himself in the Premier League and play regularly with them.
On the other hand, Aston Villa have an exciting project. They are pushing for Champions League qualification, and they have a top-class manager like Unai Emery.
It will be interesting to see what the player decides if the two clubs come forward with an offer for him.
Meanwhile, the report claims that Newcastle United are also monitoring his situation and have contacted the player’s representatives to express their interest. They could use more depth in the final third, and the dynamic Moroccan could support the likes of Anthony Gordon and Anthony Elanga.
A late move in January is still very much possible, and it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.
Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has been linked with a move away from the club in recent months.
The 18-year-old Frenchman is highly rated across Europe and is expected to become a future star. Naturally, multiple clubs are interested in securing his signature.
Man United and Real Madrid eyeing Ayyoub Bouaddi
According to a report from Footmercato, Manchester United and Real Madrid are in the running to secure his signature. On the other hand, Arsenal have already made their move for the player. They have yet to submit a formal offer, but they seem to be the most serious contender in the race.
It will be interesting to see if Arsenal follow up on their interest with an official proposal. They could use more control and creativity in the middle of the park, and Bouaddi would be an excellent long-term investment for them. He is a young player with great potential, and Arsenal could groom him into a future star. However, competition for his services is intense, and Arsenal will have to act quickly to complete the deal.
Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for Lille against Bologna (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The player recently extended his contract until 2029, and therefore, he is likely to cost a lot of money. It will be interesting to see if Arsenal are willing to pay a premium for him. They have shown that they are willing to invest in the right player, and there is no doubt that they have the finances as well.
The opportunity to join Arsenal could be exciting for the 18-year-old. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and they have a formidable team. He would be able to fight for trophies with them.
On the other hand, Manchester United need midfield depth as well. The 18-year-old could be an excellent acquisition for the Red Devils if they manage to get the deal done. However, they have not been able to fight for major trophies in recent seasons, and Arsenal could be a more attractive destination for the player.
Liverpool defender Jeremie Frimpong picked up an injury against Qarabag in the UEFA Champions League during midweek.
The Netherlands international is expected to be sidelined for a significant period, and the team is now considering potential alternatives.
Liverpool want Denzel Dumfries
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Premier League champions have now made enquiries for the Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries.
The Netherlands international has been linked with a move to the Premier League before, and it will be interesting to see whether Liverpool makes an offer for him. The player is currently sidelined with an injury, and it would be quite surprising if Liverpool made a move for him while he is not fit and available.
The 29-year-old is a quality player who has shown his ability in Italian football. He has done quite well for his country internationally. There is no doubt that he would be a useful acquisition for Liverpool. He has the quality and the experience to play for them, and he could help Liverpool at both ends of the pitch.
Denzel Dumfries in action for Inter Milan (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The opportunity to move to the Premier League could be exciting for him at this stage of his career.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan are unlikely to sanction his departure without signing a quality replacement. They are keeping tabs on Norton-Cuffy as a potential alternative.
Despite the links with the Netherlands international, a January move seems highly unlikely, mainly because of the player’s injury situation. Liverpool need someone who can come in and make an immediate impact. Conor Bradley and Frimpong are sidelined with injuries, so it does not make sense for them to sign another full-back who is recovering from injury.
Sources have informed CaughtOffside that Tottenham have shown interest, but they’re not alone. London rivals West Ham, Fulham, and Crystal Palace are also in the race, with Sterling’s desire to stay in the capital for family reasons giving them an edge.
Fulham’s connection with Marco Silva, Palace’s squad planning, and West Ham’s need for attacking depth all make him an appealing option. Brentford’s name has also been mentioned, though financial constraints weaken their chances.
The key factor is Sterling’s willingness to take a huge pay cut. From earning €375,000 per week at Chelsea, he’s ready to sign for less than a third of that amount.
This flexibility has attracted interest from abroad as well, with Juventus, Napoli, Bayern Munich, and Roma all monitoring the situation. MLS clubs have made approaches too, but Sterling’s priority is to remain at the top level and, ideally, join a team competing in the Champions League.
Raheem Sterling in action for Chelsea (Photo by Jeff Dean/Getty Images)
Sterling should look to join a club where he will play regularly. He has struggled for regular football in recent months. His time at Chelsea did not go according to plan; he scored 19 goals and recorded 15 assists in 81 appearances. He will look to return to his best with regular football. There is no doubt that he could be a very effective signing in the right team. He has tremendous quality and a wealth of experience playing at the highest level.
Tottenham need a dynamic attacker who can slot into multiple roles and contribute with goals and assists. The England International could be ideal for them.
He has won major trophies, including the Premier League, and his experience could prove invaluable for Tottenham.
Tottenham have reportedly heightened security measures for their senior officials following a surge in frustration from the fanbase.
According to a Daily Mail report, tensions between the Spurs hierarchy and supporters have reached a breaking point, leading the club to take proactive steps to protect its leadership during recent away fixtures.
Senior executives have been intentionally kept away from fans during arrivals and departures, with a heightened security detail now a standard fixture for the board.
The move comes as the “Change for Tottenham” protest group intensifies its calls for a total overhaul of the club’s ownership and transfer strategy.
Tightened security for hierarchy amid growing unrest
(Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images)
The decision to bolster protection for the board follows a series of tensed atmospheres at matches.
At recent away games, including the 3-2 defeat at Bournemouth and a 2-2 draw with Burnley, directors have reportedly been whisked through private entrances to avoid confrontations with angry travelling supporters.
However, figures such as CEO Vinai Venkatesham and the sporting directors have inherited the scrutiny.
Fans have voiced frustration over high ticket prices and a perceived lack of ambition, leading the club to prioritise “separation zones” to ensure the safety of officials.
Fans and players involved in recent altercations
The toxicity has not been limited to the boardroom; it has spilled onto the pitch.
Worrying domestic form vs Impressive Champions League run
It has been a rather strange season, similar to last season. Domestically, Tottenham find themselves sitting 14th in the Premier League, having won just two of their last 14 league games.
They have already been eliminated from both the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup.
In stark contrast, Spurs finished the Champions League league phase as the fourth-best team in Europe, cruising into the Round of 16 with a 2-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt this week.
Opponent
Venue
Result
Score
Villarreal
Home
W
1–0
Bodø/Glimt
Away
D
2–2
Monaco
Away
D
0–0
Copenhagen
Home
W
4–0
Paris Saint-Germain
Away
L
3–5
Slavia Praha
Home
W
3–0
Borussia Dortmund
Home
W
2–0
Eintracht Frankfurt
Away
W
2–0
Tottenham Champions League 25/26 League Phase results
While the European run provides a silver lining, the prospect of a relegation battle remains a genuine fear for fans, ensuring the pressure on the hierarchy remains at an all-time high.
Ben Jacobs has dismissed speculation surrounding Liverpool enquiring for Inter Milan’s Denzel Dumfries following the recent injury to Jeremie Frimpong.
Despite reports from Italy suggesting the Reds had made contact with the Nerazzurri, it appears Anfield officials may not be pursuing a deal for the Dutch wing-back as the January transfer window enters its final hours.
The rumors gained traction after Liverpool’s defensive depth was pushed to the breaking point, but Jacobs’ latest update suggests the club is looking elsewhere, or perhaps nowhere at all, before Monday’s deadline.
(Photo by Luca Rossini/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Ben Jacobs update on Denzel Dumfries to Liverpool
Taking to social media to clarify the situation, Ben Jacobs was quick to pour cold water on the growing narrative that Dumfries could be the solution to Liverpool’s right-back crisis.
“Told there is nothing in links for January with Liverpool and Denzel Dumfries,” Jacobs posted on X.
Told there is nothing in links for January with Liverpool and Denzel Dumfries.? pic.twitter.com/f7ZjW9efBh
The dismissal comes despite high-profile claims from Italian journalists, including Gianluca Di Marzio, who suggested Liverpool had reached out to Inter to gauge the 29-year-old’s availability.
That said, Dumfries is currently sidelined with his own fitness issues and is unlikely to be back on the pitch until late February/March, making it an unlikely option for Liverpool to pursue as an emergency January signing.
Liverpool’s right-back crisis
The urgency for defensive reinforcements at Anfield is real, regardless of the Dumfries denial.
Arne Slot is currently navigating a nightmare scenario on the right flank following a series of unfortunate setbacks.
Conor Bradley has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2026 season following a awful knee injury sustained against Arsenal.
Jeremie Frimpong, the summer signing from Bayer Leverkusen, limped off just minutes into the midweek 6-0 win over Qarabag. While Slot confirmed the injury is “not as bad as feared,” he is still set to miss several weeks.
Player
Injury
Conor Bradley
Knee Injury
Giovanni Leoni
Knee Injury
Jeremie Frimpong
Thigh Injury
Joe Gomez
Hip Injury
List of Liverpool defenders out injured
Joe Gomez, the versatile defender capable of playing right-back, is also currently unavailable due to a hip issue, though he is expected to return sooner than the others.
With no fit senior right-backs available for the upcoming clash against Newcastle, Slot may be forced to play midfielders like Wataru Endo or Dominik Szoboszlai in a makeshift back four.
While the club remains alert to market opportunities, Jacobs’ update indicates that fans shouldn’t expect Dumfries to be the one arriving at the AXA Training Centre this winter.
Liverpool may have just been handed an unexpected transfer opportunity and it could help Arne Slot solve one of the biggest problems threatening their season.
Liverpool could use Curtis Jones to sign Denzel Dumfries
According to Romano, the Nerazzurri have identified Jones as their primary candidate to replace Davide Frattesi, who is closing in on a move to Nottingham Forest.
While discussions have reportedly begun around a loan with an option to buy, this latest development could open another door for the Reds.
According to reports emerging from Italy, later covered by The Mirror, Liverpool have made enquiries about Inter wing-back Denzel Dumfries.
With Inter needing a technical midfielder and Liverpool desperate for a right-back, there is an opportunity for a potential exchange involving the two stars that could be discussed as the clubs look to find a solution before Monday’s deadline.
(Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty Images)
Liverpool’s growing defensive urgency
Arne Slot confirmed on Friday that summer signing Jeremie Frimpong is set to miss several weeks with a muscle injury, joining Conor Bradley who is expected to be out for the season.
With no senior right-backs available, a move for Dumfries makes sense.
The Dutch international, who has frequently been linked with a move to Manchester United, would bring the Champions League experience, tactical versatility, and the kind of athletic profile suited to Premier League football.
Denzel Dumfries 24/25 stats for Inter Milan
A loan deal could be the ideal short-term fix to keep Liverpool’s top-four hopes alive.
Curtis Jones sacrifice may become necessary
While losing a homegrown talent like Curtis Jones mid-season would be a blow, it may be a sacrifice that the Reds will need to make.
Jones has struggled for consistent starts under Slot, finding himself behind the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Florian Wirtz.
With midfield depth intact and defensive options stretched thin, Liverpool may be forced to prioritise addressing defensive crisis over midfield depth.
There is one potential complication, Dumfries is currently managing a minor injury himself and is not expected back until late February.
Still, Liverpool could see this as an opportunity too good to ignore, especially with top-four ambitions hanging in the balance.
Inter Milan have entered direct club-to-club negotiations with Liverpool for the signing of midfielder Curtis Jones, according to a bombshell update from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The Italian giants are reportedly pursuing a loan deal that includes a purchase option clause as they look to bolster their squad for the second half of the 2026 season.
The deal is part of a complex transfer domino effect currently unfolding across Europe. Inter’s move for the 25-year-old is directly linked to the potential exit of Davide Frattesi, who is currently a target for Nottingham Forest.
(Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
Inter Milan in talks with Liverpool for Curtis Jones
With the January window reaching its final stages, Romano has revealed that Inter and Liverpool officials are in active discussions.
Inter are eager to add technical quality to their midfield as they fight for the Serie A title and compete in the Champions League knockout stages.
“Inter are in direct club to club talks with Liverpool for Curtis Jones on loan deal with buy option clause. Negotiations ongoing but linked to Davide Frattesi exit with #NFFC waiting for an answer.”
???? Inter are in direct club to club talks with Liverpool for Curtis Jones on loan deal with buy option clause.
Negotiations ongoing but linked to Davide Frattesi exit with #NFFC waiting for an answer.
The prospect of losing Jones could go either way for the Reds in what is going to be a crucial second half of the season for them.
While the Scouser has never quite been an undisputed nailed on starter, he has matured into a vital squad player under Arne Slot.
In a season plagued by injuries, particularly in the defensive and midfield departments, Jones has provided essential tactical flexibility.
He has been deployed as a holding midfielder, an advanced “number ten,” and even filled in at right-back during an injury crisis earlier this year.
Letting him leave on loan without a direct replacement could be seen as a massive gamble for Slot, especially given the club’s current form.
Curtis Jones time at Liverpool
A product of the club’s academy since the age of nine, Jones has already surpassed 200 appearances for the Reds.
He has been a fixture of the first-team squad since 2020, helping the club secure two Premier League titles and multiple domestic cups.
Team
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Liverpool FC
208
19
23
Liverpool FC U21
34
13
5
Liverpool FC U18
29
15
6
Liverpool UEFA U19
18
13
3
Total
289
60
37
Curtis Jones – Liverpool stats across all levels via Transfermarkt
Known for his exceptional ball retention and scouse swagger on the pitch, Jones has often been hailed by coaching staff and teammates for his leadership qualities and his technical ability.
However, with his contract entering its final 18 months, both the player and the club may feel that a fresh challenge in Italy represents the best path forward if a regular starting role at Anfield remains elusive.
Leicester City are looking to improve their squad and has identified Valencia youngster Raul Jimenez as a target.
According to a report from Spanish publication AS via Sport Witness, Leicester City have submitted an attractive offer for the Spain Under-20 international. It will be interesting to see if Valencia are willing to sanction his departure.
Raul Jimenez is a top talent
The 19-year-old goalkeeper joined the La Liga club’s academy in 2020, and he is highly rated at the club. He has been a star for the Spanish national team at the youth level, but he is in the final year of his contract with Valencia, and Leicester City are looking to capitalise on that.
Valencia are unwilling to let the player leave, and they are prepared to renew his contract until 2028. They will include a €60 million release clause in his contract if the player commits his long-term future to them. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Leicester City will certainly hope that the player does not sign a new contract with Valencia, as they are unlikely to be able to afford €60 million for him.
Jimenez is highly rated in Spain, and he has a bright future. He could develop into a quality player for Leicester City if they can get the deal done. They have had a disappointing season in the Championship so far, and they are fighting for survival. They will look to build a formidable team for the future, and signing the 19-year-old would be a solid long-term investment.
It will be interesting to see if the player is willing to join a second-division club in England. The move to England could be an exciting opportunity for him, especially if the Foxes are willing to provide him with ample opportunities at a high level. It could accelerate his development and help him fulfil his potential.
Uruguay international goalkeeper Sergio Rochet has now slammed Aston Villa star Emiliano Martinez for his arrogance on the pitch.
The Uruguayan international explained that the Argentine star can be quite provocative, especially during penalty shootouts, and his style of play does not sit right with the Uruguayan.
There is no doubt that Martinez has been a quality player for club and country. However, his provocative style of play can rub the opposition the wrong way. Rochet admitted that the Aston Villa star is a phenomenon and a very good goalkeeper; however, his attitude is questionable.
He also admitted he does not like the Argentine international’s personality.
Rochet on Emiliano Martinez
“Personally, I don’t like his way of being like that. As a goalkeeper, honestly, he’s a phenomenon. A very good goalkeeper,” he said speaking to El Espectador Deportes in Uruguay.
“It doesn’t quite sit right with me because of the attitudes he has. Everyone has their own personality. I don’t like it, I’m more low-profile. It worked for him and that’s fine, if he feels comfortable like that,” Rochet added.
“Those things don’t appeal to me, I don’t like arrogance. I try, as a person, to be like that, and to advise teammates when I can, to keep that profile, because that’s our profile as Uruguayans,” he explained.
He has been a quality performer for the Premier League club, but he has looked mediocre in recent weeks, and this could be the right time for Aston Villa to cash in on him.
Leeds United striker Joel Piroe has been linked with a move away from the club this month.
The striker has struggled for regular opportunities this season, and the 26-year-old needs to leave the club in order to play more often. He has secured just 324 minutes of first-team action in all competitions this season.
According to a report via MOT Leeds News, Italian club Como are interested in signing the player. They hope to secure his signature this month, but it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done.
Meanwhile, Spanish outfit Real Betis have also registered their interest in the player. However, the 26-year-old striker is not desperate for an exit, and he is prepared to stay and fight for his place at Leeds United.
It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
Leeds United are currently fighting for survival in the Premier League and could use more quality and depth in the squad. Keeping the 26-year-old at the club might not be a bad idea. They have been overly dependent on Dominic Calvert-Lewin for goals, and the 26-year-old could support the former Everton star.
Joel Piroe of Leeds United shoots. (Photo by Cameron Howard/Getty Images)
Piroe is at the peak of his career right now, and he needs regular game time in order to fulfil his potential. It will be interesting to see if he can convince Daniel Farke to give him more opportunities during the second half of the season.
Meanwhile, Leeds have been linked with multiple strikers in recent months, and it is clear that they are looking to improve in that area of the pitch. If they decide to sign another centre-forward, it would be bad news for the 26-year-old and it would push him further down the pecking order.
Nottingham Forest are exploring a stunning deal to sign Manchester City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega before the January transfer deadline.
The German shot-stopper, who has been a reliable deputy for Pep Guardiola over the last few seasons, is reportedly set to leave the Etihad Stadium as he searches for regular first-team football.
With the 2026 winter window entering its final hours, Forest have emerged as the frontrunners to secure his signature.
Nottingham Forest eyeing move for Stefan Ortega
(Photo by Emilee Chinn – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg has revealed that Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are now “pushing” to finalise a deal.
According to the update, negotiations between the two Premier League clubs are already underway.
“Forest exploring deal to sign Stefan Ortega,” Plettenberg shared. “Talks are now underway with Manchester City. More teams are keen on him. Forest now pushing. Ortega is set to leave Manchester City before Deadline Day.”
?? EXCLUSIVE | Forest exploring deal to sign Stefan #Ortega.
Talks are now underway with Manchester City. #NFFC
While several clubs across Europe, including interest from Italy and Spain, have monitored Ortega’s situation, Forest’s aggressive approach suggests they are determined to add proven Premier League and Champions League experience to their ranks for the second half of the season.
Ortega has fallen down the pecking order at Manchester City
The sudden availability of Ortega follows a dramatic reshuffle in Manchester City’s goalkeeping department.
Despite signing a contract extension in 2024, Ortega has found himself effectively sidelined following a high-profile summer rebuild in 2025.
The arrivals of Italian international Gianluigi Donnarumma from PSG and the homecoming of James Trafford from Burnley have reshaped the hierarchy.
With Donnarumma established as the undisputed number one and Trafford serving as the primary cup goalkeeper, Ortega has plummeted to third or even fourth choice.
At 33, the German is far too talented to remain a spectator.
Arsenal are interested in signing the Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.
According to TEAMtalk, they are prepared to step up their efforts to sign by including first-team players in a potential player-plus-cash deal. Gabriel Jesus or Gabriel Martinelli could be included in a deal for him.
Barcelona are interested in the player, and they are the player’s preferred choice. However, they are going through financial difficulties, and it remains to be seen whether they can afford the World Cup winner.
Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez warming up (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Arsenal have been scouting him extensively in the last two weeks, and it will be interesting to see if they follow up with an official proposal at the end of the season.
He could prove to be a major upgrade on Viktor Gyokeres, who has not been able to find the back of the net consistently. Alvarez is one of the best strikers in European football right now, and he could make a defining impact in the attack for Arsenal.
They will be hoping to win league titles and the UEFA Champions League. They need elite players like Alvarez, and the South American could transform them.
Alvarez is more than a goal scorer, and he will add creativity and link up to the site as well. He is excellent at taking set pieces as well.
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