Premier League Transfer Rumours: Jacquet, Palmer & Putellas in January Spotlight
As the January transfer window enters its final five days, the rumour mill is buzzing with potential moves that could reshape teams across English football. From high-profile Premier League targets to ambitious Women's Super League signings, clubs are making late pushes to strengthen their squads.
Liverpool and Chelsea Battle for French Defender
The most intriguing story centres on Jérémy Jacquet, the Rennes defender who has attracted serious interest from both Liverpool and Chelsea. According to reports, Chelsea currently lead the race as Jacquet's preferred destination, but Liverpool have intensified their pursuit in recent days. Bayern Munich are also monitoring the situation, though any transfer is more likely to occur in the summer window as Rennes are determined to retain their talented centre-back for the remainder of the season.
Manchester United's Ambitious Palmer Bid
In what would be a sensational move, Manchester United are reportedly preparing an audacious bid for Chelsea and England star Cole Palmer. Sources suggest the departure of Enzo Maresca from Stamford Bridge has made Palmer more open to a return to his home city of Manchester. However, Chelsea's firm stance and Palmer's contract until 2033 mean any deal would require a British record fee of approximately £150 million, creating significant financial hurdles for United's hierarchy.
Internal Struggles at Old Trafford
Meanwhile, interim Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faces internal disagreements regarding defender Harry Maguire. While Carrick wants to keep the experienced centre-back, other decision-makers at Old Trafford prefer to give younger talents like Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven more opportunities in the first team, creating a potential conflict as the transfer deadline approaches.
Midfield Movements Across the League
Several other Premier League clubs are active in the market. Burnley are close to securing a loan deal for set-piece specialist James Ward-Prowse, who has become somewhat overlooked despite the current tactical emphasis on dead-ball situations. Wolves are targeting former England international Angel Gomes, currently at Marseille, as they seek reinforcements for their relegation battle. Wolves are also monitoring Mali and Auxerre forward Lassine Sinayoko, though Championship clubs Coventry and Middlesbrough could offer more immediate promotion prospects for the £8 million-rated striker.
Spanish Transfer Developments
In Spain, Real Madrid are planning to activate an €8 million buy-back clause for academy graduate Victor Muñoz, currently impressing at Osasuna. The 22-year-old winger's return would follow a modern football strategy of regaining control of his contract with the intention of selling him later at a profit, highlighting the business-oriented nature of contemporary transfers.
Women's Super League Ambition
The Women's Super League could witness a landmark signing as London City Lionesses are linked with former Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas. The Barcelona and Spain playmaker was spotted watching London City's recent match against Manchester City in Bromley, fueling speculation about a potential move. With owner Michele Kang reportedly planning one more significant signing this winter, Putellas' arrival would represent a major coup for the ambitious club.
As the transfer window reaches its climax, these rumours demonstrate the strategic planning and financial maneuvering that characterise modern football. From Premier League giants to WSL contenders, clubs are positioning themselves for crucial second-half campaigns, making these final days potentially transformative for the season ahead.
