Transfer news LIVE! Arsenal Mudryk price lowered; Fernandez to Chelsea near; Tottenham latest gossip

Transfer news LIVE!

The January transfer window is open and Arsenal and Chelsea are wasting no time splashing the cash. The Gunners are still locked in talks to Mykhaylo Mudryk, with a second improved bid now made as talks continue with Shakhtar Donetsk. Arsenal have also been linked with Joao Felix but, along with the Blues and Manchester United, are reluctant to meet Atletico Madrid’s demands.

Chelsea are closing in on a stunning club-record deal with Benfica for Enzo Fernandez that would make Argentina’s World Cup-winning midfielder the most-expensive capture in Premier League history aged just 21. The Blues are also set to complete deals for Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile and Brazilian wonderkid Andrey Santos.

Tottenham continue to be linked with a number of names, including the likes of Denzel Dumfries, Stefan de Vrij, Pedro Porro and Sofyan Amrabat after Antonio Conte fired a fresh January warning, while Liverpool are looking into a deal for Wolves midfielder Matheus Nunes and Man United have emerged as favourites to land Marcus Thuram. Follow all the latest transfer news, rumours and gossip live below!

Transfer news and rumours

• Key progress in Arsenal’s Mudryk talks

• Chelsea close in on stunning Fernandez signing

• Tottenham push for Pedro Porro deal

• Chelsea, Arsenal and Man United reluctant over Felix

Man United seek striker

14:41 , Marc Mayo

Erik ten Hag has accepted that Manchester United “need” to sign a forward in January.

He said: “I think we have a good team when all the players are available.

“But with many games coming up, I think there is a need.

“But you need one who can have an impact, otherwise you are just burning money and you don’t strengthen the squad and it doesn’t help you.”

Mudryk ‘spotted in the capital'

14:24 , Marc Mayo

Mykhaylo Mudryk is NOT in London… yet.

Arsenal fans have been speculating online that the Arsenal target is currently holed up in London awaiting an agreement over his transfer future.

But transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has stated that Mudryk is not yet in the capital.

Spurs keep eye on De Vrij

14:05 , Marc Mayo

Tottenham are mulling over a contract offer to sign Stefan de Vrij.

The Inter Milan defender’s deal expires in the summer and he has received a renewal proposal worth £70,000-a-week over two years.

An answer is expected by the spring with La Gazzetta dello Sport naming Tottenham and Feyenoord as keen on his services.

Arsenal set out long-term transfer plan

13:45 , Marc Mayo

A left-sided central defender is on Arsenal’s wish list for future transfer windows.

Mikel Arteta is keen to add competition to Gabriel Magalhaes’ spot in the team, according to Standard Sport’s Simon Collings.

A new midfielder is also on their agenda following previous links with Youri Tielemans, who becomes a free agent in the summer.

Arsenal Mudryk price lowered

13:29 , Marc Mayo

Shakhtar Donetsk are now only seeking £61m for Mykhaylo Mudryk.

That is according to TMW, who report on Arsenal closing in on securing a deal for the Ukrainian winger.

Talks continue after Mudryk gave his nod to a five-year contract in north London.

Terrier injury could disrupt Spurs and Man United

13:14 , Marc Mayo

Tottenham and Manchester United will likely have to look elsewhere for a January signing after Martin Terrier was taken off on a stretcher on Monday night.

The Rennes forward, 25, has been linked with a £34million move to the Premier League after hitting 12 goals and five assists for the French club this season.

Manager Bruno Genesio told reporters: “We didn't talk too much about that at the break, but all the players went to see Martin in the physio’s room to comfort him.”

Read the full story!

How the Fernandez deal will work

12:43 , Marc Mayo

Chelsea will pay three instalments of £37.5m to sign Enzo Fernandez, in the latest round of talks over the Benfica star.

The Blues are thought to be nearing an agreement that will cost a total of £112m, with an extra £7m thrown in to sweeten the deal.

That is because they cannot afford to pay Fernandez’s £105m release clause due to FFP restrictions.

Spurs target cools January switch talk

12:18 , Marc Mayo

Weston McKennie is losing interest in a move to the Premier League.

Juventus want £25m for the American midfielder with Tottenham linked recently.

But TMW say Fulham are one club monitoring the situation, along with German teams, but McKennie is not keen on such a switch.

Enzo Fernandez touches down in Lisbon

11:49 , Marc Mayo

Enzo Fernandez has this morning been pictured arriving back at Benfica’s training ground amid talks over a move to Chelsea.

The Portuguese club were reportedly angry with Fernandez for skipping training yesterday and had issued an ultimatium over his return.

He is still set to be fined by Benfica, who are closing in on a deal worth £112m for their player.

Key progress in Arsenal’s Mudryk talks

11:29 , Marc Mayo

Standard Sport understand Arsenal hope to seal a deal for Mykhaylo Mudryk after agreeing to pay more of his transfer fee up front.

Shakhtar Donetsk have already turned down one bid with a second now made for the highly-rated winger.

The Gunners want to seal the Janaury transfer quickly so Mudryk can face Tottenham and Manchester United later this month.

Read Simon Collings’ full story!

World Cup talent on the move

11:08 , Marc Mayo

Arsenal, Leicester and Marseille are set to miss out on Azzedine Ounahi.

One of the stars of Morocco’s World Cup campaign is in talks to sign for Napoli after an initial transfer bid of £17m.

Corriere dello Sport report on the Italians loaning Ounahi back to Angers for six months as part of the deal.

Done deal!

10:42 , Marc Mayo

Leeds sign Austria international defender Max Wober on a four-year deal from RB Salzburg - the second time Jesse Marsch has signed him.

The transfer fee could reach £17m via add-ons.

Chelsea look to Serie A pair

10:13 , Marc Mayo

Chelsea are preparing to continue their busy month by opening talks over Rafael Leao and Denzel Dumfries.

Corriere della Sera say the AC Milan and Inter stars are on their agenda, the former still in talks to extend his contract at the San Siro.

Dumfries, also a Spurs target, would cost around £50m.

In addition, Inter want to open talks over a fresh loan deal for Romelu Lukaku which would involve a cheaper buy-out clause than previously discussed.

Crystal Palace update

09:44 , Marc Mayo

Crystal Palace winger Malcolm Ebiowei has agreed to join Championship side Hull on loan.

Read Simon Collings’ full story!

Cedric exit stalls

09:21 , Marc Mayo

Standard Sport understand wage demands are holding up Cedric Soares’ move from Arsenal to Fulham.

The Gunners have given the green light to a January transfer for the full-back, who has barely played this season.

But the deal has hit a snag with Cedric’s £65,000 wage demands.

Read Nizaar Kinsella’s full story!

Benfica set to fine Enzo Fernandez

08:53 , Marc Mayo

While talks over his move to Chelsea continue, Enzo Fernandez failed to show up for Benfica training yesterday.

Portuguese outlet Record say the Argentine’s acttions have angered manager Roger Schmidt with a fine coming Fernandez’s way.

In addition to a portion of Fernandez’s wages for the misdemeanour, Benfica are set to land north of £112m if they push ahead with his sale to Chelsea.

Arsenal submit new Mudryk bid

08:32 , Marc Mayo

Standard Sport understand Arsenal are in continued dialogue with Shakhtar Donetsk as they look to seal a deal for Mykhaylo Mudryk.

The Gunners are alone in negotiating for the 21-year-old winger despite rumours of Chelsea’s interest.

Donetsk remain keen on an £85m fee but Arsenal are confident of knocking that down with a deal based on add-ons and instalments.

Read Simon Collings’ full story here!

Ronaldo has Newcastle clause

08:09 , Alex Young

Cristiano Ronaldo has inserted a clause in his Al Nassr contract which would allow him to play Champions League football.

The 37-year-old would be allowed to join Newcastle on loan should the team qualify for Europe's top table, as they are owned by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund.

Modern football, eh!

Spurs close in on Porro

07:51 , Alex Young

Tottenham are closing in on Pedro Porro as their first January signing, according to the Daily Star.

Antonio Conte has demanded another right wing-back and wants the Sporting defender for the position.

Porro has a £45million release clause and Spurs hopeful of agreeing a fee slightly less than that figure, closer to £35m.

Chelsea close in on Enzo Fernandez

07:39 , Alex Young

Chelsea are locked into negotiations over the structure of a club-record deal to sign Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from Benfica, writes Nizaar Kinsella.

The 21-year-old has broadly agreed personal terms with Chelsea and even failed to turn up for Benfica training in a bid to force a move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea want to pay the transfer fee for Fernandez in instalments as they bid to stay in line with UEFA financial fair play rules.

After spending £273million in the summer, Chelsea are among four Premier League clubs on a UEFA financial watch list.

Read more here.

Could Man United recall Amad Diallo?

Monday 2 January 2023 23:46 , George Flood

One option for United this month could be to recall Amad Diallo from his loan spell at Sunderland.

The Ivorian winger has shone in the Championship so far this term, scoring six goals in 20 appearances including a thumping effort in the 4-1 rout of Wigan on Thursday.

And while Erik ten Hag insists that all options are on the table in January, he is reluctant to hamper Diallo’s impressive progress.

“We consider everything. I have a little reservation because I don’t want to stop the process, he is making good progress there,” said Ten Hag.

“When we decide (he needs) to come back he has to be a player who can compete for the starting 11 or at a minimum of coming on for a lot of games to have an impact.”

Ten Hag update on Man United striker search

Monday 2 January 2023 23:43 , George Flood

Erik ten Hag has insisted once again that Manchester United do need to find a new forward in January, but insists the club won’t “burn money” in pursuit of any old signing to fill the void.

The Dutchman is keen to find the right fit and does not want to just fo splashing the cash for the sake of it.

“You need one who can have an impact otherwise you are just burning money, you don’t strengthen the squad and it doesn’t help you,” Ten Hag said ahead of United’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Tuesday evening.

“We have a good team when all are available. We have (a number nine), Anthony Martial, I’m really happy with his performances across many games.

“He has had a really good impact. If you see his minutes and the impact he has had it’s been huge.”

Man United favourites to land Marcus Thuram

Monday 2 January 2023 22:54 , George Flood

Manchester United are said to be the front runners in the race to sign Marcus Thuram.

The French international is on the radar of a number of top clubs across Europe after impressing at the World Cup, with Borussia Monchengladbach potentially set to cash in on their top asset.

According to Italian outlet La Repubblica, Inter Milan have now been priced out of a move for Thuram, which could open the door for United as they seek their long-term successor to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Chelsea on verge of huge £112m Fernandez deal

Monday 2 January 2023 22:44 , George Flood

Huge breaking news from a Chelsea transfer perspective tonight.

Fresh reports claim that Argentina World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez is now on the verge of completing a blockbuster club-record switch from Benfica to Stamford Bridge.

Transfer specialist Gianluca Di Marzio says that only the last details are to be ironed out before things become official.

Journalist Colin Millar reports that Chelsea will make Fernandez the most expensive Premier League signing of all time at a whopping cost of £112m.

He says they have agreed to pay £6m over the 21-year-old midfielder’s release clause to ensure the fee is paid in instalments.

Chelsea, Arsenal and Man United reluctant over Felix

Monday 2 January 2023 22:36 , George Flood

Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United are all reluctant to meet Atletico Madrid’s demands to pay a £10million loan fee to sign forward Joao Felix, writes Nizaar Kinsella.

The 23-year-old is highly-regarded by the Premier League giants but that fee, along with his £250,000-a-week wages, have made him less desirable to suitors.

Portugal international Felix would also command a €100m (£86m) option to buy after the Spanish giants set the terms of a possible transfer.

Atletico could be open to further negotiation as the January transfer window wears on after a breakdown in the relationship between the player and the club’s manager Diego Simeone.

Chelsea and Arsenal are both open to signing a forward this month after suffering long-term injuries to Armando Broja and Gabriel Jesus respectively.

Read the full article here

Liverpool return for Matheus Nunes deal

Monday 2 January 2023 21:11 , George Flood

Liverpool fans hoping for a distraction after tonight’s woeful Premier League loss at Brentford look to have a new transfer story to sink their teeth into.

After already clinching the signing of Dutch World Cup star Cody Gakpo for £44m from PSV Eindhoven, they are now reportedly back on the trail of Matheus Nunes.

According to The Telegraph, Liverpool are exploring a potential deal to sign the Portuguese midfielder from Wolves as per an agreement reached last summer when he almost went to Anfield from Sporting Lisbon, but ended up at Molineux instead.

It seems that such a deal could also be worth £44m and would happen in the summer. Bit of a strange one, but few can deny that Liverpool need to strengthen that midfield.

Arsenal and Chelsea target Mac Allister ‘in no rush' to leave Brighton

Monday 2 January 2023 20:40 , George Flood

Alexis Mac Allister insists he is in no rush to leave Brighton.

The Argentina playmaker has been linked with a big-money exit from the Amex after playing a key role in his country’s World Cup triumph in Qatar, with the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal both mentioned in connection with January deals.

However, Mac Allister insists he is not looking to secure a swift exit from Brighton, who laid on a brilliant reception for their returning hero on Monday - complete with a fake trophy and ticker tape celebration.

"I try not to read too much (speculation)," he told Albion TV. "I always say I am happy here, I don't have any rush to leave. I feel really good, I'm really grateful with this club, my team-mates and all the people who work here. I'm just focused on the next game and this club.

"It was a good World Cup for this club and for the players who went to the World Cup. We know we've got a good team with really good players. This is a tough league, it will be hard, but we will try to finish as high as we can."

Milan in for Balogun

Monday 2 January 2023 17:57 , Matt Verri

AC Milan are reportedly considering a summer move for Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun

The 21-year-old is currently on loan at Reims and having an incredibly successful spell, with ten Ligue 1 goals already to his name.

Calciomerato claim that Milan are keeping tabs on Balogun’s situation, with the club looking to bolster their options. Divock Origi has struggled since his arrival, while Olivier Giroud is out of contract in the summer.

It’s suggested that Arsenal could be open to a sale too, with others ahead of Balogun in the pecking order.

Done deal!

Monday 2 January 2023 17:38 , Matt Verri

Former Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren has signed for Lyon.

The 33-year-old spent three seasons with the Ligue 1 side earlier in his career, and has now made his return after leaving Zenit Saint Petersburg.

Silva hints at move away from Man City

Monday 2 January 2023 16:58 , Matt Verri

Bernardo Silva has suggested he would be open to a move away from Manchester City.

The Portuguese star was linked with Barcelona in the summer, but ultimately stayed with the Premier League champions.

His current deal expires in the summer of 2025, and Silva has revealed he will likely look for a “new project”.

“In June we’ll talk again to see what’s best,” he told Record.

“I’m focused on City project and my contract would end at 31. I won’t hide that my goal in recent years, if something good happens elsewhere, will probably be to move to a new project.”

Keane to West Ham?

Monday 2 January 2023 16:39 , Matt Verri

Michael Keane has been linked with a January move to West Ham.

The Everton centre-back has played just 22 minutes in the Premier League this season following the arrivals of Conor Coady and James Tarkowski, putting his future in doubt.

It’s reported by journalist Paul Brown that West Ham could be a possible destination, with it being a move that could be completely relatively quickly in the weeks ahead.

De Zerbi on Mac Allister speculation

Monday 2 January 2023 16:03 , Matt Verri

Roberto De Zerbi believes it’s in Alexis Mac Allister’s best interests to remain at Brighton amid interest from a number of top clubs.

The midfielder has now returned to Brighton following his World Cup exploits, with it reported that Arsenal and Chelsea are among those to have made enquiries.

“I am happy if he wants to stay with us until the end of the season and I think it is better for him,” De Zerbi said.

“For us, for sure, but also for him because in this moment changing team in January can be a problem for him. For us, but also for him.”

De Jong shows Man United interest

Monday 2 January 2023 15:43 , Matt Verri

The Frenkie de Jong to Manchester United rumours are back.

It was one of the sagas of the summer and it could soon be back on the agenda, with Fichajes reporting that De Jong has told Erik ten Hag he would now be willing to join the club.

Whether Barcelona are keen on a sale remains to be seen, but it would certainly ease their financial situation, which is set to become a problem again.

Gunners back in for Mudryk

Monday 2 January 2023 15:19 , Matt Verri

Arsenal have made a new and improved offer for Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk as talks with the Ukrainian club heat up over a blockbuster January transfer, writes Simon Collings.

The Gunners have made Mudryk their top target in this transfer window and have already had an initial bid of around £55million rejected.

Talks have continued between the two club since then and it is understood Arsenal have now conveyed a willingness to increase their offer.

Read the full story on that here

Klopp: Liverpool cannot play Monopoly

Monday 2 January 2023 15:04 , Matt Verri

Jurgen Klopp has downplayed talk of Liverpool being particularly active in the January transfer window after the arrival of Cody Gakpo, insisting the Reds do not have the ability to keep spending.

“I am now seven years and a few months here and every transfer window is pretty much the same,” the Liverpool boss said.

“We talk about these things as though money wouldn’t play a role. Like, ‘Who cares’.

“It is never like this, that you could just spend money. I don’t want to disappoint anybody but we signed an outstanding player like Cody Gakpo and the next thing you can read is, ‘Who next?’

“It is like we didn’t have a team, honestly. We cannot play like Monopoly. We never did and I don’t understand it. Of course, we cannot just spend and never could, surprisingly.”

Ronaldo held MLS talks

Monday 2 January 2023 14:49 , Marc Mayo

Cristiano Ronaldo almost signed for Sporting Kansas City.

The MLS club held long talks with the free agent striker before he signed for Al-Nassr, according to ESPN.

Ronaldo is due to be unveiled by his new club soon but rivals Al-Hilal have fired a Lionel Messi-shaped barb…

Read the full story!

Arsenal make second Mudryk bid

Monday 2 January 2023 14:17 , Marc Mayo

Arsenal have made a bid worth under £60m for Mykhaylo Mudryk.

Transfer journalist Ben Jacobs reports on the second offer from the Gunners, who are said to be confident of knocking down Shakhtar Donetsk’s £86m demands for the winger.

At the very least, Shakhtar want around £50m up-front if they are to sell Mudryk, with Arsenal relying on a deal with numerous add-ons so far.

Bidding war set to begin for Mac Allister

Monday 2 January 2023 14:05 , Marc Mayo

Arsenal and Chelsea have made enquiries for Alexis Mac Allister.

La Gazzetta dello Sport name the two clubs alongside Manchester United, Atletico Madrid and Juventus as keen on the Brighton midfielder.

But a fee exceeding the £60m the Seagulls got for Marc Cucurella will be required to sign Mac Allister after his World Cup heroics.

Mac Allister returned to Brighton today with one hell of a welcome...

Spurs target staying put

Monday 2 January 2023 13:48 , Marc Mayo

One of those players, Milan Skriniar, is set to hold further talks with Inter Milan over his future.

PSG are lurking for a defender that has been linked to Chelsea and Tottenham in the past.

Gazzetta dello Sport say Inter are set to seal Skriniar’s future after an improved offer.

Wealth of free agents up for grabs

Monday 2 January 2023 13:28 , Marc Mayo

The January transfer window is open and that means clubs can begin to negotiate pre-contract agreements with players whose deal expires in the summer.

English clubs cannot agree such deals with players from other English clubs, however.

It does mean that a huge supply of stars are now technically available on free transfers.

To name but a few: Luka Modric, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, Marcus Thuram, David De Gea, Marco Asensio, Jorginho, Roberto Firmino, Milan Skriniar, Toni Kroos, Youri Tielemans, Angel Di Maria…

*Deep breath*

Ilkay Gundogan, Memphis Depay, Thomas Lemar, Evan Ndicka, Caglar Soyuncu, Raphael Guerreiro, Naby Keita, Ben Brereton Diaz, Alex Sandro, Reiss Nelson…

Mudryk backed to shine at Arsenal

Monday 2 January 2023 13:00 , Marc Mayo

Mykhaylo Mudryk can provide the missing ingredient in Arsenal’s Premier League title fight with Manchester City, according to Jamie Carragher.

“They’re after Mykhaylo Mudryk, when I’ve seen him play in the Champions League, he’s been left wing and Gabriel Martinelli is there right now, he’s been outstanding,” he told Sky Sports.

“If they want to compete with Manchester City – and they are doing that right now but I’m talking about in all competitions and for the next few years like Liverpool have done – you need options from the bench. Mikel Arteta knows that.”

Read the full story!

Fernandez to Chelsea update

Monday 2 January 2023 12:23 , Marc Mayo

Chelsea want to pay just 25 per cent of Enzo Fernandez’s transfer fee this month, with the rest in instalments.

Brazilian journalist Bruno Andrade reports on Benfica still demanding the player’s full £106m release clause up front as talks continue with the Blues.

Manchester United are said to be monitoring the situation.

Arsenal ward off Saka fears

Monday 2 January 2023 11:57 , Marc Mayo

Manchester City’s pursuit of Bukayo Saka has received a key setback.

Arsenal, according to multiple reports, have triggered a 12-month extension option in the winger’s contract.

That means the Gunners have until the summer of 2024 to sign Saka up to a long-term renewal amid talks with the player’s camp.

Benfica eye Fernandez replacement

Monday 2 January 2023 11:32 , Marc Mayo

Still in talks with Chelsea over Enzo Fernandez, Benfica are scouring the market for a replacement if the midfielder is sold.

Feyenoord midfielder Orkan Kocku is the latest name to appear on the club’s radar, according to Record.

Velez’s Maximo Perrone, also wanted by Manchester City, has also been identified.

Fernandez spent New Year’s Eve in Buenos Aires and his agent’s Instagram post of them together prompted a flurry of angry comments from Benfica fans.

Potter responds to Badiashile deal

Monday 2 January 2023 11:12 , Marc Mayo

Graham Potter claimed he knew nothing of a £33m deal to sign Benoit Badiashile after Chelsea’s draw at Nottingham Forest.

“Until someone has told me they have been signed it would be unfair of me to comment,” he told Sky Sports.

Reports suggest the French defender will undergo a medical in London today.

Chelsea outcast set to return

Monday 2 January 2023 10:43 , Marc Mayo

Tiemoue Bakayoko’s future is up in the air.

No clubs have come forward willing to take the Chelsea midfielder after he was left on the sidelines at AC Milan.

His two-year loan spell ends in the summer, who is still under contract in west London until 2024.

Certain conditions must be met to trigger a permanent transfer obligation clause in Bakayoko’s deal - which now appears highly unlikely.

Spurs face fight for Amrabat

Monday 2 January 2023 10:02 , Marc Mayo

Competition is growing for Sofyan Amrabat.

Tottenham have been joined by Liverpool, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Sevilla in tracking the £43m-rated World Cup star.

Amrabat returns to Fiorentina tomorrow after his World Cup break with it reported by Corriere dello Sport that Liverpool will launch a £35m bid for his services.

Joao Felix latest

Monday 2 January 2023 09:32 , Marc Mayo

Joao Felix will cost £18.5m to sign on loan for just six months.

That is according to The Athletic, who say Arsenal and Chelsea have baulked at paying the Atletico Madrid striker’s wages in full.

Both clubs would be willing to pay around half the current demands amid talks with Felix’s agent, Jorge Mendes.

Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano adds that Chelsea are not as invested in the deal right now due to focusing on Enzo Fernandez.

Manchester United are also keen but PSG have not made an approach.

Spurs have edge in Dumfries race

Monday 2 January 2023 09:08 , Marc Mayo

Tottenham are ready to offer Emerson Royal in a bid to beat Chelsea to Denzel Dumfries.

The two London rivals are both eyeing a deal with Bayern Munich and Manchester United also keen with the Inter Milan wing-back’s transfer fee tipping £50m.

Transfer journalist Marco Barzaghi has claimed Spurs have the upper hand due to their willingness to offer Royal.

Arsenal reach Mudryk agreement

Monday 2 January 2023 08:37 , Marc Mayo

Mykhaylo Mudryk has agreed a five-year contract with Arsenal.

Ukrainian outlet Sport Arena say personal terms are settled for the winger.

Now all that is left is for the Gunners to agree a transfer fee with Shakhtar Donetsk, with a second bid expected soon.

Chelsea on verge of two signings

Monday 2 January 2023 08:31 , Marc Mayo

Chelsea could today announce their second and third signings of the January transfer window.

Brazilian teenager Andrey Santos is in London to complete a deal worth £20m after agreeing to a switch from Vasco da Gama.

Benoit Badiashile could also undergo his medical in the capital today, after Chelsea last night struck a £33m agreement to sign the defender.

A contract running through to 2029 has been provisionally agreed in that one.

Watch this space!

New signing Fofana watches Chelsea draw

Sunday 1 January 2023 21:36 , George Flood

Chelsea were watched by new signing David Datro Fofana during Sunday’s meeting with Nottingham Forest.

The Ivorian striker was present in the stands at the City Ground as Graham Potter’s side opened 2023 with a frustrating Premier League draw against struggling opponents, seeing an early effort from Raheem Sterling deservedly cancelled out after the interval by former Tottenham full-back Serge Aurier.

The result left Chelsea sitting eighth in the Premier League and still seven points adrift of the top four with a tough league and FA Cup double-header to come next against Manchester City, stunting their green shoots of recovery after a 2-0 win over Bournemouth in midweek that had ended a dismal run of three straight defeats suffered before the World Cup break.

The Blues remain far from convincing away from Stamford Bridge this season, having won just three of their nine top-flight away matches in 2022/23 to date - and none since mid-October.

Click here to read the full article

Potter responds to Badiashile transfer talk

Sunday 1 January 2023 20:59 , George Flood

Graham Potter is remaining tight-lipped on Chelsea’s impending deal for Benoit Badiashile.

Standard Sport understands that the Blues have now agreed a £33m fee with Monaco for the France centre-back, who will undergo a medical on Monday after verbally agreeing a six-and-a-half year contract at Stamford Bridge until the summer of 2029.

Badiashile will become Chelsea’s third signing of the embryonic January transfer window already, following deals for Molde striker David Datro Fofana - who watched Sunday’s 1-1 Premier League draw with Nottingham Forest from the stands at the City Ground - and Vasco da Gama youngster Andrey Santos, both seen as exciting talents for the future.

However, Badiashile is obviously a more immediate first-team signing and was not named in the Monaco matchday squad for their Ligue 1 win over Brest at the Stade Louis II on New Year’s Day as he prepares to travel to west London, having already reportedly bid farewell to his team-mates in the principality.

Chelsea had been targeting a new left-sided defender as a priority this month with the likes of Wesley Fofana and Ben Chilwell out injured and the evergreen Thiago Silva yet to agree an extension to his current contract that expires over the summer.

Click here for the full article

New Arsenal bid for Mudryk

Sunday 1 January 2023 16:56 , Marc Mayo

Arsenal have now made their second transfer bid for Mykhaylo Mudryk.

According to Foot Mercato, the Gunners have launched an unspecified offer having seen a £45m approach rebuffed.

Shakhtar Donetsk want as much as £85m for Mudryk but this latest report states all parties are confident of reaching an agreement with the January window now open.

Chelsea in Fernandez FFP fears

Sunday 1 January 2023 16:38 , Marc Mayo

Standard Sport understand Financial Fair Play issues are behind Chelsea’s decision to negotiate over Enzo Fernandez.

Benfica would be powerless to stop the Blues taking up Fernandez’s £105m release clause.

But Chelsea want to spread their payments over a number of seasons to keep in line with financial rules.

And that means negotiating a deal which could well exceed the player’s release fee.

Read Nizaar Kinsella’s latest Chelsea transfer update!

Thuram eyed for Premier League move

Sunday 1 January 2023 16:16 , Marc Mayo

Manchester United are preparing a swoop for Marcus Thuram.

A host of clubs, including Arsenal, have been tipped to sign the French forward ahead of his contract expiring in the summer.

The Mail say United will make a push for the Borussia Monchengladbach star, who was previously said to be going for just £10m this month.

Spurs youngster wanted in Serie A

Sunday 1 January 2023 15:43 , Marc Mayo

Salernitana are not giving up on a loan deal for Tottenham’s Pape Matar Sarr.

Il Mattino report on the Italian side plotting a bid amid heavy competition.

Benfica youngster Cher Ndour is their alternative to the Spurs youngster.

Chelsea begin Dumfries talks

Sunday 1 January 2023 15:07 , Marc Mayo

Chelsea have started talks with Denzel Dumfries’ representatives over a summer transfer.

According to TMW, the Dutch wing-back is being eyed after Reece James suffered a setback in his injury comeback.

However, Inter Milan will demand at least £50m for the Dutchman.

Kessie snubs Spurs

Sunday 1 January 2023 14:37 , Marc Mayo

Franck Kessie has rejected a January move away from Barcelona.

Tottenham and Inter Milan were keeping tabs on the Ivorian midfielder with a £13m bid reportedly landing from the English side.

But despite Barcelona being content with cashing in, Kessie will stay put and fight for his place.

Why Benfica want a big fee for Fernandez

Sunday 1 January 2023 14:09 , Marc Mayo

One big reason Benfica want the full £106m fee for Enzo Fernandez is his sell-on clause.

The Chelsea target has a sizeable 25 per cent stipulation in his contract that will divert a quarter of his next transfer fee to River Plate.

That would amount to a chunky £26m.

Spurs near Porro deal

Sunday 1 January 2023 13:41 , Marc Mayo

Tottenham are on the verge of signing Pedro Porro.

The Daily Star claim a £35m deal is in the offing for the right wing-back.

The deal could signal the end of Emerson Royal’s stay in north London.

Breaking news!

Sunday 1 January 2023 13:18 , Marc Mayo

Chelsea have reached an agreement over a £33million fee to sign Benoit Badiashile from Monaco, Standard Sport understand.

Read Nizaar Kinsella’s full report!

Breaking news!

Sunday 1 January 2023 12:43 , Marc Mayo

Newcastle have recalled Martin Dubravka from his loan spell at Manchester United.

Read the full story!

Maguire told to quit Man United

Sunday 1 January 2023 12:24 , Marc Mayo

Rio Ferdinand has told Harry Maguire he should look for a new club after being left out of the Manchester United XI at Wolves in favour of Luke Shaw.

“It raised eyebrows when you saw Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire on the bench – it shows what Ten Hag thinks of those two guys!” he said on BT Sport.

“I’d be telling my agent to go and find me a new club where I can play regularly and enjoy my football.”

Read the full story!

No bids for Mac Allister

Sunday 1 January 2023 11:56 , Marc Mayo

Alexis Mac Allister is set to become a key figure in the 2023 transfer market.

Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea have been linked with Brighton’s World Cup winning midfielder although The Athletic say no official contact has come from any club.

It is added that Brighton will demand a huge fee for Mac Allister, well north of the £60m they recouped for Marc Cucurella.

Old Spurs target seeks new club

Sunday 1 January 2023 11:16 , Marc Mayo

Ruslan Malinovskyi is still dreaming of a move to Tottenham.

CalcioMercato report on the Atalanta winger looking to leave Italy after a summer transfer saga.

West Ham have recently enquired over Malinovskyi along with previous interest from Marseille.

Benfica admit Fernandez fear

Sunday 1 January 2023 10:49 , Marc Mayo

Benfica head coach Roger Schmidt has admitted that Chelsea target Enzo Fernandez may have played his last game for the club.

Standard Sport understands the Blues are ready to meet the World Cup winner's £105million release clause to sign the 21-year-old in January.

Schmidt said: “I don't know if that was the last match of Enzo. I think Enzo is a great player. Since he arrived at Benfica, hes played fantastic football.

“Also, as a person, he's completely identified with the club.”

Read the full story!

Arsenal prepare new Mudryk offer

Sunday 1 January 2023 10:13 , Marc Mayo

Arsenal will return with a better offer for Mykhaylo Mudryk this week.

That is according to the Mail, who detail Chelsea’s threat to the Gunners’ deal.

Arsenal remain the favourites for a January deal but Shakhtar Donetsk are holding out for £85m.

Chelsea complete Andrey Santos deal

Sunday 1 January 2023 09:45 , Marc Mayo

Chelsea are set to announce Andrey Santos’ arrival imminently.

Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has reported on the Brazilian youngster signing his contract to join the Blues for £12.5m

Only a medical is left to seal Chelsea’s second January signing.

Chelsea’s Fernandez talks to continue TODAY

Sunday 1 January 2023 09:26 , Marc Mayo

Chelsea will attempt to strike a New Year’s Day deal with Benfica for Enzo Fernandez.

The Mail report on the Blues’ “aggressive” January strategy which also involves talks over Joao Felix and Benoit Badiashile.

Fernandez is available for a full, up-front £106m release clause but Chelsea are negotiating a bigger fee based on more manageable instalments.

Mudryk fires fresh Arsenal hint

Sunday 1 January 2023 09:16 , Marc Mayo

Mykhaylo Mudryk watched Arsenal beat Brighton as the Gunners prepare an improved bid for the Shakhtar Donetsk winger at the start of 2023.

Mudryk posted an image on his Instagram of himself watching Arsenal as they moved seven points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League with victory at Brighton.

Arsenal have had an opening bid of around £55million for Mudryk rejected by Shakhtar, who are holding out for a much higher fee for the Ukraine international.

Read the full story!

Chelsea consider Dumfries swoop

Saturday 31 December 2022 14:49 , Matt Verri

Chelsea are believed to be considering a January move for Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries.

The Blues have concerns over Reece James’ injury record and want a strong option in that position in his absence, with Sport Italia reporting that Dumfries is the player being considered.

It’s suggested he would cost in the region of £50m, a figure Chelsea would be willing to go to.

Maguire on the move?

Saturday 31 December 2022 14:11 , Matt Verri

Rio Ferdinand has urged Harry Maguire to leave Manchester United.

The England centre-back once again missed out on the side as United travelled to face Wolves, with Erik ten Hag preferring Luke Shaw at centre-back over Maguire.

“If I’m Harry Maguire, I’d be looking for a new club right now — at Man United it hasn’t worked out,” Ferdinand told BT Sport.

Latest on Fernandez

Saturday 31 December 2022 13:34 , Matt Verri

Enzo Fernandez has accepted Chelsea’s contract offer as the Blues continue to push to sign the midfielder.

That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, who reports that it now comes down to Benfica and their decision, with Fernandez not looking to disrespect the club by forcing through a move.

Chelsea want to wrap up the deal in January, rather than waiting until the summer.

Moyes on West Ham’s January plans

Saturday 31 December 2022 13:09 , Matt Verri

West Ham are on a miserable run of form, but don’t expect them to spend big over the next few weeks.

“The January transfer window is about to open and there is always a great deal of speculation during this time,” Moyes said.

“Our plan throughout was to make signings during the calmer summer period and we envisage very little business next month unless circumstances change.

“A number of new players were brought in last summer and they are still becoming used to West Ham and the challenges the Premier League presents.”

Aboubakar on the move

Saturday 31 December 2022 12:50 , Matt Verri

Vincent Aboubakar has previously been very outspoken about Mohamed Salah - safe to say he’s not the biggest fan.

“I don’t give a toss if people don’t like it – I’m not impressed by him,” the Cameroon forward said.

“I can do what he does. I just don’t have the opportunity to play in a big club.”

It sounds like Aboubakar is going to leave Al Nassr after Ronaldo’s arrival. Time for Liverpool to sign the 30-year-old and give everyone what they want...

Spurs want Edwards and Porro

Saturday 31 December 2022 12:23 , Alex Young

Tottenham have made their first move to bring Marcus Edwards back to the club, claim A Bola.

Spurs are looking for both a forward and a right-back in the January window, and believe former player Edwards and full-back Pedro Porro - both of Sporting - would fit the bill.

Porro’s release clause is €45m, while Edwards’ is €60m but Spurs are due 50% of any sale of Edwards, so would only have to pay €30m for him.

Man United identify Gakpo alternative

Saturday 31 December 2022 10:32 , Alex Young

Manchester United are weighing up a move for Marco Asensio after missing out on Cody Gakpo.

That's according to Sport, who claim United are prepared to offer the Real Madrid forward a significant pay bump to lure him to Old Trafford.

Atletico Madrid pair Joao Felix and Alvaro Morata had both been touted as targets but United are currently wary of the fees involved.

Chelsea may join Mudryk race

Saturday 31 December 2022 10:07 , Alex Young

Chelsea could hijack Arsenal's move for Mykhailo Mudryk, reports the Guardian.

The Blues are reluctant to trigger Enzo Fernandez's £105million release clause, so could turn to Mudryk as a cheaper option with Shakhtar Donetsk hoping to recoup £85m for their winger.

Arsenal trigger two contract extensions

Saturday 31 December 2022 09:30 , Alex Young

Arsenal have tied both William Saliba and Charlie Patino down to longer contracts, by triggering clauses in their current deals.

Real prepare Jude bid

Saturday 31 December 2022 09:20 , Alex Young

Real Madrid are prepared to spend upwards of €100million (£89m) to sign Jude Bellingham, ESPN claim.

The Borussia Dortmund and England midfielder is expected to be at the centre of a huge transfer tussle in the summer, with Liverpool also very keen.

But the Spanish giants have made clear their intentions.

Benfica make Enzo admission

Saturday 31 December 2022 09:11 , Alex Young

Benfica head coach Roger Schmidt has admitted that Chelsea target Enzo Fernandez may have played his last game for the club.

He said: "I don't know if that was the last match of Enzo. I think Enzo is a great player. Since he arrived at Benfica, hes played fantastic football. Also, as a person, he's completely identified with the club.

"Like I said before the match, sometimes things in football happen and then players have to make decisions. We will see what happens [in the] next weeks."

Read more here.

Ronaldo new eyewatering salary

Saturday 31 December 2022 08:57 , Alex Young

Cristiano Ronaldo’s full salary break down at Al Nassr has been revealed.

Not a bad gig if you can get it. Read more here.

ICYMI: Antonio Conte addresses Clement Lenglet’s long-term Tottenham future

Saturday 31 December 2022 07:00 , Jonathan Gorrie

Asked whether Lenglet could stay on beyond the summer, Conte added: “I don’t know the situation about his contract.

“I can make an evaluation about what I see in training and on the pitch, then I can give my opinion to the club. But you know, the club has the last decision.”

Read the full story here!

ICYMI: Cristiano Ronaldo completes move to Al-Nassr

Saturday 31 December 2022 06:30 , Jonathan Gorrie

Cristiano Ronaldo has completed a move to Al-Nassr, the club have confirmed.

Al Nassr posted a picture on social media of the five-time Ballon d’Or holding up the team’s jersey, with the club hailing the signing as “history in the making.”

“This is a signing that will not only inspire our club to achieve even greater success but inspire our league, our nation and future generations, boys and girls to be the best version of themselves,” the club wrote.

It also gives the 37-year-old Ronaldo a massive payday in what could be the final contract of his career. Media reports have claimed the Portugal star could be earning up to $200 million a year from the deal.

Read the full story here!

Ten Hag hints at ‘financial criteria’ holding back Man United after Gakpo failure

Saturday 31 December 2022 06:00 , Jonathan Gorrie

Erik ten Hag has suggested Manchester United are not able to splash the cash in the January transfer window after missing out on Cody Gakpo.

Liverpool have won the race to sign the Dutch forward from PSV Eindhoven for £45million, leaving United without a key target after they held summer talks with Gakpo and subsequently lost Cristiano Ronaldo.

Reports have claimed United will focus on loan signings in January and Ten Hag said on Friday that the finances must be right on any deal.

“I think we have a squad,” he told reporters.

Read the full story here!

ICYMI: Benfica hit back at claims they will sell Chelsea target Enzo Fernandez in January

Saturday 31 December 2022 05:30 , Jonathan Gorrie

Reports that Benfica are ready to sell Enzo Fernandez in January are “totally false”, the club have stated.

Chelsea are joined by Real Madrid, Manchester United and Arsenal in chasing a deal for the World Cup winner whose £105million release clause has raised hopes of a January transfer.

Benfica president Rui Costa even suggested they would sell Fernandez next month if it “pleases” the player, however the comments have been strongly refuted by the Portuguese club.

Read the full story here!

ICYMI: Arsenal told top target Mudryk is a ‘future Ballon d’Or winner’ as talks continue

Saturday 31 December 2022 05:00 , Jonathan Gorrie

Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi has backed Mykhaylo Mudryk to win the Ballon d’Or.

The Shakhtar Donetsk winger is Arsenal’s leading target ahead of the January transfer window and the Premier League leaders have already seen an offer worth £55m rejected.

Talks are continuing and another bid is expected, with the Ukrainian club admitting they would be open to selling the 21-year-old should the right offer - which they hope to be something approaching the £100m that took Jack Grealish to Manchester City from Aston Villa - emerge.

Read the full story here!

Cristiano Ronaldo completes move to Al-Nassr after Manchester United exit

Friday 30 December 2022 21:34 , Jonathan Gorrie

Cristiano Ronaldo has completed a move to Al-Nassr, the club have confirmed.

The 37-year-old was a free agent after leaving Manchester United in November.

“This is more than history in the making,” read a statement on the Saudi Arabia-based outfit’s Instagram account.

Read the full story here!

Cristiano Ronaldo set to sign for Al-Nassr

Friday 30 December 2022 18:35 , Jonathan Gorrie

It’s been coming.

According to CBS Sports, Cristiano Ronaldo will now fly to Saudi Arabia to complete his medical and formally sign for Al-Nassr on a two-year contract.

Mikel Arteta hopeful William Saliba will sign new Arsenal contract as talks continue

Friday 30 December 2022 18:00 , Jonathan Gorrie

Mikel Arteta is hopeful Arsenal will tie down William Saliba to a new contract, insisting the defender is “really happy” at the club.

Saliba is about to head into the final 18 months of his current deal and Arsenal are in talks with him over an extension.

That is one of a number of deals that Arsenal are working on, as they also want to agree fresh terms with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.

Arsenal’s sporting director Edu is leading the negotiations and asked if they are progressing well, Arteta said: “I hope so.

Read the full story here!

David Datro Fofana’s agent speaks out on Chelsea transfer

Friday 30 December 2022 16:58 , Jonathan Gorrie

David Datro Fofana’s agent Atta Aneke tells VG: “Chelsea want to sign the best young talents in the world, it’s clear — for David, it was a dream”.

“Chelsea have a very clear plan on how to make them succeed, they want to proceed with top talents as best as possible”.

Enzo Fernandez: Benfica could leave Chelsea target out of starting lineup

Friday 30 December 2022 16:46 , Jonathan Gorrie

Could a £105m transfer be moving closer?

Graham Potter hails ‘patient’ Denis Zakaria as Chelsea outcast finally makes impact at club

Friday 30 December 2022 16:35 , Jonathan Gorrie

Graham Potter has hailed Denis Zakaria for holding his nerve to prove his quality at Chelsea.

Zakaria delivered a crucial midfield showing on his Blues Premier League debut as Chelsea saw off Bournemouth 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.

The Juventus loanee had to stay calm after joining on Thomas Tuchel’s watch, only to see the German coach quickly sacked by the new Chelsea owners.

Nicknamed ‘The Octopus’, Switzerland star Zakaria finally appears to be wrapping his tentacles around life at the west London club.

Read the full story here

Arsenal told top target Mudryk is a ‘future Ballon d’Or winner’ as talks continue

Friday 30 December 2022 16:02 , Jonathan Gorrie

Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi has backed Mykhaylo Mudryk to win the Ballon d’Or.

The Shakhtar Donetsk winger is Arsenal’s leading target ahead of the January transfer window and the Premier League leaders have already seen an offer worth £55m rejected.

Talks are continuing and another bid is expected, with the Ukrainian club admitting they would be open to selling the 21-year-old should the right offer - which they hope to be something approaching the £100m that took Jack Grealish to Manchester City from Aston Villa - emerge.

Read the full story here!

Could Clement Lenglet stay at Tottenham?

Friday 30 December 2022 15:14 , Jonathan Gorrie

Antonio Conte admitted being surprised by the Barcelona loanee’s unstinting attitude, but refused to be drawn on whether the 27-year-old could stay at Spurs beyond the summer.

“Clement is a really good player, don’t forget that we are talking someone who played five years in Barcelona,” said Conte.

“When you play for many years in this type of club, with great history, great importance, it means that you are a good player.

“I think about him he needed to put himself in a new challenge.

“And when I spoke with him in the summer I was very clear with him, if you decide to play you have to come with us, you will play, a really good player good personality, technically and good choices in the game.

“I can tell you that he was a big surprise for me in a positive way for his attitude, commitment, behaviour.

“He’s always 120 per cent during the training sessions, if he starts or if he knows he’s not going to start.”

Asked whether Lenglet could stay on beyond the summer, Conte added: “I don’t know the situation about his contract.

“I can make an evaluation about what I see in training and on the pitch, then I can give my opinion to the club. But you know, the club has the last decision.”

Ten Hag offers honest assessment of Man United transfer plans

Friday 30 December 2022 14:56 , Marc Mayo

Erik ten Hag has suggested Manchester United are not able to splash the cash in the January transfer window after missing out on Cody Gakpo.

He said: “Not only numbers, you need quality players to cover that and also that you need competition. And you need also that you can make tactical choices.

“So, we are looking for the right player for our squad and has to match our sporting criteria but also our financial criteria.”

Read the full story!

Spurs rivalled for McKennie

Friday 30 December 2022 14:37 , Marc Mayo

Borussia Dortmund have entered the race for Tottenham target Weston McKennie.

Tuttosport say the Germans are ready to mix it with Spurs and Manchester United for the Juventus midfielder.

Often tipped as up for sale, Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri remains a fan of McKennie’s, however.

Benfica line up Fernandez replacement

Friday 30 December 2022 14:10 , Marc Mayo

Benfica are already seeking out replacements for Enzo Fernandez.

The £105m Chelsea target is wanted by many clubs across Europe and Ole name Velez teenager Maximo Perrone as an option for the Lisbon side if they lose Fernandez.

O Jogo say Carlos Alcaraz of Racing is another alternative, costing around £22m.

Spurs enter Terrier chase

Friday 30 December 2022 13:45 , Marc Mayo

Martin Terrier has entered Tottenham’s radar for a January move.

A £35m fee will be required to sign the Rennes attacking midfielder, according to Media Foot.

Manchester United and Arsenal are also linked with the Frenchman, who has eight Ligue 1 goals in 15 games this year.

Click here to read the full blog on The Evening Standard's website