Chelsea remain active in the transfer market, though frustration has continued to build over deals that stalled late in the window.

Several high-profile names have surfaced in recent reports, while other moves fell through before reaching the finish line.

Here is a clear look at the latest Chelsea transfer rumours, separating real interest from deals that never got off the ground.

Chelsea must give up Enzo Fernandes in Jude Bellingham transfer

Chelsea have been linked with a surprise move for Jude Bellingham, but according to SportsBoom, Real Madrid would only consider negotiations if Enzo Fernandes was included in the deal.

Bellingham is viewed as central to Madrid’s long-term plans, while Fernandes remains a key figure at Stamford Bridge, making any such swap extremely complex.

Federico Valverde also linked to Stamford Bridge move

According to El Nacional, Federico Valverde has also been linked with a move to Chelsea after reports claimed he informed Real Madrid of interest from the Blues and Manchester United.

The midfielder is said to be open to a switch that would allow him to return to a central role rather than continuing at right back.

Blues face Premier League competition for Lennart Karl

As reported by fussballdaten, Chelsea are one of several Premier League clubs monitoring Bayern Munich teenager Lennart Karl, who has drawn interest from across Europe.

Arsenal and Manchester City have also sent scouts to watch the 17-year-old, while Bayern continue to view him as untouchable ahead of a future professional contract.

Chelsea’s failed deadline day deals

According to Jacob Steinberg, Chelsea failed to complete a late loan move for Josh Acheampong after turning down Crystal Palace’s approach to send the defender out for the remainder of the season.

The club also missed out on Nantes defender Tylel Tati, despite offering around €30m and proposing a loan to Strasbourg, with the player opting to remain in France, as reported by L’Équipe.

For now, Chelsea’s transfer activity reflects a blend of elite ambition and the realities of late-window negotiations.

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N’Golo Kante might end up staying at Al-Ittihad after all, with new issues reported around his move.

Chelsea were looking to add a midfielder in January but dropped those plans after missing out on Douglas Luiz. Instead, they stuck with what they had for the rest of the season.

Kante’s name came up as a possible loan target, though nothing ever got off the ground.

Instead of moving on loan, Kante was set to join Fenerbahce permanently. But that deal has yet to be completed, and now it looks like he may not go there after all.

Why N’Golo Kante thought his transfer would be approved

At 34, it’s no surprise that Kante preferred a permanent move rather than a short-term return to Stamford Bridge. But his switch to Fenerbahce still hasn’t been finalised.

Fabrizio Romano has reported that the deal is now off, with FIFA rejecting both clubs’ appeals.

The move had been verbally agreed, but paperwork issues prevented it from being completed in time.

Kante even submitted a petition before the decision was made, but it didn’t change the outcome.

Kante’s situation now very uncertain after failed move

Even in a window filled with dramatic moves, including Cristiano Ronaldo’s reported strike over Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante, this situation stands out.

It’s too early to know what comes next for Kante, but his hopes of making France’s squad for Euro 2026 now look even slimmer. Returning to Europe was supposed to help him stay in the mix for international selection.

There was a time when a Chelsea return would have felt like the perfect homecoming. But under Liam Rosenior, the focus is clearly on building around younger players, and there aren’t plans to change that approach.

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Manchester United have sanctioned a late transfer deadline day move, allowing one of their young attacking prospects to leave on loan in search of regular first-team football.

The decision reflects United’s ongoing approach to player development, prioritising minutes and experience over bench roles at Old Trafford.

For the receiving club, the arrival represents a significant boost at a crucial stage of the season.

Manchester United striker Ethan Wheatley joins Bradford City on loan

The move was confirmed publicly by Bradford City in an announcement shared on X, formally welcoming the United youngster.

“We are delighted to announce the loan signing of Manchester United’s Ethan Wheatley for the remainder of the season. Welcome to the Bantams, Ethan!” the club shared.

The loan agreement will run until the end of the current campaign, giving Wheatley the chance to gain consistent senior experience away from United.

It also ensures he will be operating in a competitive environment where results matter week to week.

Why Manchester United approved Ethan Wheatley’s deadline day exit

Wheatley has been regarded internally as a promising forward, but opportunities at senior level have been limited by competition and squad depth.

A temporary move was viewed as the most effective way to accelerate his development.

Bradford City provide a platform where he can be tested physically and tactically while adapting to the demands of regular first-team football.

From United’s perspective, the loan allows the coaching staff to monitor Wheatley’s progress in meaningful match situations. Deadline day timing suggests the move was carefully assessed rather than rushed.

For Bradford, adding a striker with Premier League academy pedigree strengthens attacking options for the remainder of the season.

The expectation is that Wheatley will be challenged immediately to contribute rather than eased in gradually.

As the window closes, the deal suits both clubs. United will gain a clearer picture of Wheatley’s readiness. Bradford will gain a motivated young forward eager to make an impact.

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Manchester City appeared to be cruising on Sunday after racing into a 2–0 lead against Tottenham.

Control of the match looked firmly in their hands, with Man City dictating possession and tempo.

However, that comfort vanished quickly once Thomas Frank’s side found a way back into the contest in the second half.

Dominic Solanke’s brace hauled Tottenham back to earn a 2–2 draw, with the first goal proving a major turning point.

Jamie Carragher explains what went wrong with Manchester City’s high line

Analysing the moment Spurs pulled a goal back, Carragher focused on City’s high defensive line and their attempt to step up rather than track the run in behind.

For Carragher, it was the type of mistake that can unravel an entire defensive structure.

“I don’t understand it because I’ve been in this position,” Carragher said. “I always go back, and I keep repeating myself about what I was brought up with, that we don’t play offside, they run offside.”

Carragher pointed to Marc Guehi as the first defender caught between decisions, arguing that his hesitation triggered a chain reaction.

“Marc Guehi was in a position where he could just go with the run. He doesn’t need to play offside,” Carragher continued. “But as soon as he lets the attacking player for Tottenham go, there’s a knock-on effect.

“So, you see Guehi, [Abdukodir] Khusanov, [Nico] O’Reilly, and the guy at the back post, [Rayan] Ait-Nouri, all go after one another.

“All they’ve gained is probably six inches in terms of going forward and trying to play someone offside. There’s absolutely no danger.”

Carragher was also keen to defend Ait-Nouri, who was criticised by some for playing Solanke onside.

“People will say he played them on. What is he supposed to do?” Carragher added. “How does he know at that split second those players are going to do that?”

How Pep Lijnders is influencing Manchester City’s defensive approach

Carragher’s analysis went beyond the individual error, linking the issue to City’s overall defensive setup.

He drew parallels with patterns he had seen before at Liverpool, as Pep Lijnders was Jurgen Klopp’s long-time assistant and is now part of City’s coaching staff.

Carragher recalled how Liverpool were often caught out when playing an aggressive high line.

“If I’m being honest, because I’ve seen it this season and I remember how Liverpool used to play under Jurgen Klopp, I think a lot of this is down to Pep Lijnders,” Carragher explained.

Carragher believes City are being encouraged to chase marginal offside calls rather than prioritising defensive security.

Michael Carrick’s short spell as Manchester United’s interim manager could still have a lasting impact on the club’s transfer business.

With United operating under temporary leadership, Carrick has been handed influence over immediate squad decisions as the club looks to steady itself.

That responsibility has led to clear priorities emerging in the middle of the pitch.

Michael Carrick pushes for Ruben Neves and Marc Casado

As United’s interim boss, Carrick is understood to have identified Ruben Neves and Marc Casado as the two midfielders he wants added before the deadline, according to a report from the Daily Star.

The focus reflects Carrick’s own footballing philosophy, shaped by his years controlling games from deep midfield.

Neves is seen as an experienced option who could provide immediate authority, composure, and leadership in high-pressure matches.

Casado, meanwhile, represents a younger profile with strong positional discipline and tactical awareness.

For Carrick, the appeal lies in balance rather than reputation. Both players are viewed as capable of improving United’s ability to manage games, retain structure, and dictate tempo.

Midfield rebuild driven by Casemiro exit and Bruno Fernandes uncertainty

The urgency behind Carrick’s request is tied directly to United’s evolving midfield situation.

Casemiro’s departure at the end of the season has already been confirmed, leaving a significant leadership and defensive gap in the centre of the pitch.

At the same time, speculation continues to swirl around Bruno Fernandes’ future, with rumours suggesting he could also move on.

Those two potential exits would strip United of experience, creativity, and control. Carrick likely sees Neves as a stabilising presence who could help fill the leadership void.

Casado would offer longer-term succession planning and energy in a reworked midfield unit. Even in an interim role, Carrick is focused on safeguarding United’s short-term competitiveness.

Whether both deals can be completed before the window shuts remains uncertain. But the reasoning behind the push is clear.

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Cristiano Ronaldo’s praise of Michael Carrick back in December 2021 was easy to miss at the time.

It came quietly, after Carrick had already stepped away from his short caretaker spell at Manchester United, with the club quickly turning the page.

There was little sense then that those comments would carry long-term significance.

Five years on, Carrick’s impact in 2026 has given Ronaldo’s words a very different weight. What once sounded like respectful backing now feels remarkably accurate.

What Cristiano Ronaldo said about Michael Carrick after his 2021 caretaker spell

Ronaldo spoke publicly about Carrick on 3 December 2021, when Carrick left his role as caretaker manager after Ralf Rangnick was appointed.

That brief spell had produced encouraging results, even if it was never framed as a long-term audition.

Under Carrick, United beat Villarreal 2–0 away in the Champions League, secured a hard-fought 1–1 draw at Chelsea, and edged Arsenal 3–2 at Old Trafford. It was after that period that Ronaldo offered a striking endorsement.

“Michael Carrick was a class act as a player and he can become a great coach as well,” Ronaldo said.

“Nothing is impossible for this guy. Personally, I’m proud to have played with him by my side as well as with him as a manager on our bench.”

Coming from Ronaldo, those words mattered. Few players in football history have worked under as many elite managers across different leagues and cultures.

Why Michael Carrick’s 2026 Manchester United team makes those words feel prophetic

Fast forward to 2026, and Carrick is once again at the helm of Manchester United, this time with genuine momentum behind him.

His start has been eye-catching, with wins over Manchester City 2–0, Arsenal 3–2 away, and Fulham 3–2.

Those results alone would draw attention. What has really shifted perception, though, is the way United have played under Carrick.

The football has been attractive and purposeful, with United dominating games rather than simply reacting. And supporters have responded quickly.

Carrick’s connection with the fans feels natural, rooted in his history at the club and his understated leadership style.

That atmosphere makes Ronaldo’s comments from 2021 resonate more strongly. He appeared to recognise Carrick’s qualities before results or headlines demanded attention.

Now, with performances matching belief, those words feel less like generosity and more like foresight.

There is unlikely to be much movement at Chelsea in terms of signings before the deadline, but a few players could be heading out. One of them might be on his way to Crystal Palace.

Chelsea’s search for a defender has not gone according to plan. Jeremy Jacquet is expected to join Liverpool in the summer, while their bid for Nantes’ Tylel Tati was turned down. There are no new midfielders on the horizon either.

But there are still a few departures expected before the 7pm cut-off. Aaron Anselmino and David Fofana are both set for loan spells at Strasbourg, with Fofana stepping in for Emmanuel Emegha.

Axel Disasi could end up joining West Ham before the deadline, and Jimi Touriainen and Harry McGlinchey are also tipped to move on. Charlie Austin has suggested another player might be heading across town to Selhurst Park.

Charlie Austin backs Josh Acheampong for potential move to Crystal Palace

Following Marc Guehi’s transfer to Man City, six months before his contract with the Eagles was due to expire, Crystal Palace are actively seeking a new defender across the capital. Although they have not yet made a signing, this situation may change today.

During an appearance on Sky Sports (02/02, 8.30AM), former Premier League forward Charlie Austin threw his support behind a potential move for Acheampong from Stamford Bridge.

Austin said: “You don’t want to look back and think ‘what if?’ Maybe there is a deal to be done with Chelsea for Josh Acheampong to go in there. Chelsea and Palace do good business, so that wouldn’t be a surprise.”

Why Josh Acheampong may consider leaving Chelsea

Despite reports of interest from both Crystal Palace and Bayern Munich, Chelsea have reportedly deemed Acheampong unavailable for a transfer this month. However, as the transfer window progresses, the player may seek a move away from the club.

The defender has started just two of Liam Rosenior’s seven games in charge, and Mamadou Sarr is set to be recalled from Strasbourg. Malo Gusto is back fit, and Tosin should return in a few weeks.

With playing opportunities shrinking, Acheampong knows he needs regular minutes to develop properly. While he cannot expect to start every week just yet, game time is still key at this stage of his career.

While Chelsea are understandably hesitant to let one of their academy products go, a loan deal might make sense if it means consistent game time for the England youth international between now and the end of the season.

Sandro Tonali’s name has been floated around in late Arsenal transfer rumours, but Newcastle United have quickly moved to put an end to the speculation.

Reports from Germany had claimed Arsenal were weighing up a deadline-day move for the Newcastle United midfielder, but the response from Tyneside was swift and clear.

With the January window entering its final hours, Newcastle’s position leaves little room for doubt.

Newcastle United dismiss talk of Arsenal interest

Newcastle United have firmly denied any approach from Arsenal for Sandro Tonali, dismissing the reports as unfounded.

The club have labelled the claims of a late move as “stupid” and “complete rubbish”, making it clear that Tonali is not for sale.

The speculation first emerged from Sky Sport in Germany, with reports suggesting Arsenal’s interest was linked to a foot injury suffered by Mikel Merino.

But Newcastle have reiterated that Tonali remains a key part of Eddie Howe’s plans and is not being considered for sale at any point during the window.

Sandro Tonali’s contract situation

Sandro Tonali is tied to Newcastle United on a long-term deal, and there has been no indication from the club that his future is under any sort of review.

Sources close to Newcastle have also said there has been no contact from Arsenal, while the club remain confident that no domestic rival could force their hand.

Tonali’s contract runs until 2029 following an extension agreed during his suspension period, further strengthening Newcastle’s negotiating position.

With the club unmoved by the rumours, Newcastle fully expect Tonali to remain a central part of their squad beyond the current transfer window.

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Arsenal are again at the centre of transfer speculation as potential attacking reinforcements and senior squad uncertainty shape their summer outlook.

Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, Julian Alvarez, and Martin Odegaard are all central to developing reports involving Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid ahead of the next transfer window.

Multiple European clubs have been linked as the Gunners assess both recruitment and retention scenarios. Those situations now form a growing list of talking points around Arsenal’s long-term planning.

Arsenal willing to offer two stars for Julian Alvarez

Arsenal have been linked with a renewed approach for Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez as they explore options to strengthen their attack.

TEAMtalk report that the Gunners are prepared to include first-team players as part of a potential deal.

Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli have been mentioned as possible makeweights, with intermediaries discussing what it would take to make a move viable.

Alvarez is said to be frustrated in Madrid, and Arsenal are among several clubs monitoring his situation.

Martin Odegaard could return to Real Madrid

Martin Odegaard has been linked with a potential return to Real Madrid amid reports of tension behind the scenes at Arsenal.

According to Fichajes, issues relating to his role and internal dynamics could influence his future.

Odegaard remains Arsenal’s captain, but Real Madrid are said to be monitoring developments closely, while Bayern Munich have also been linked.

Any move would be expected to take place in the summer rather than during the current window.

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Arsenal and Chelsea meet again with a place in the EFL Cup final on the line.

Arsenal host Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium for the second leg of their EFL Cup semi-final, with the Gunners holding a narrow advantage from the first meeting.

The London rivals reconvene after a dramatic opening leg that leaves the tie finely balanced. The outcome will determine who progresses to face either Manchester City or Newcastle United in the final.

Game Information

The EFL Cup semi-final second leg takes place on Tuesday night at the Emirates Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm UK time.

Arsenal enter the match with a 3-2 aggregate lead after the first leg, where a late Chelsea goal ensured the tie remains alive heading into the return fixture.

Where to watch

Team news

Arsenal: The Gunners continue to monitor Bukayo Saka after he was ruled out late in the warm-up against Leeds United.

Mikel Arteta described the issue as a minor niggle, with Noni Madueke impressing as his replacement and pushing for another start.

Chelsea: The Blues have injury concerns of their own after Jamie Gittens was forced off early during their win over West Ham.

His availability remains in doubt, while Liam Rosenior has already hinted at further rotation following seven changes in their previous outing.

Prediction

With Arsenal holding a slender advantage and playing at home, the tie is set up for another tight contest. Chelsea’s depth has been tested in recent weeks, while Arsenal have shown resilience after navigating injuries and pressure.

A narrow Arsenal win or draw would be enough to see them progress, but Chelsea’s late goal in the first leg ensures the semi-final remains finely poised until the final whistle.

Prediction: Arsenal 1-1 Chelsea (4-3 agg.)

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