Transfer Market Buzz: Alexander-Arnold's Madrid Move Falters Amid City Interest
The January 2026 transfer window is heating up with a flurry of rumours and potential deals across Europe's top leagues. One of the most intriguing stories centres on Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose high-profile transfer to Real Madrid has reportedly not gone to plan, sparking speculation about a sensational return to the Premier League.
Liverpool's Defensive Dilemmas and Alexander-Arnold's Potential Exit
Liverpool's recent struggles have been compounded by the departure of Alexander-Arnold, a move that some fans reluctantly acknowledge has impacted the team. The right-back's time in Madrid has been underwhelming, leading to talk that Manchester City could swoop in. With City lacking a senior right-back, they are rumoured to be considering a loan deal for Alexander-Arnold this window or a permanent transfer in the summer, a prospect that would undoubtedly stir emotions on Merseyside.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have reportedly pulled out of a deal to send Andy Robertson to Tottenham, a transfer that had puzzled many observers. The decision appears linked to defensive shortages highlighted by Saturday's loss at Bournemouth. As a long-term solution to their left-back issues, Liverpool are said to be targeting Antonee Robinson of Fulham for the summer.
Other Key Transfer Stories Unfolding
Flamengo's Pursuit of Paquetá: A long-running saga involving Lucas Paquetá may be nearing its conclusion. Flamengo are close to securing the West Ham midfielder's return to Brazil, with Paquetá unlikely to stay and fight relegation in London. The move could be finalised swiftly, coinciding with Flamengo's Serie A opener against São Paulo on Thursday.
Bournemouth's Brazilian Winger: In a reverse trajectory, Vasco da Gama winger Rayan has arrived in the UK ahead of a medical with Bournemouth scheduled for Monday. The young Brazilian is being touted as the next Vinícius Júnior, adding excitement to the Cherries' attacking options.
Fulham's Striker Search: Marco Silva's demands for reinforcements at Fulham, possibly tied to his own future, seem to be gaining traction. The club are exploring moves for PSV's USMNT forward Ricardo Pepi as an alternative to Raúl Jiménez, alongside interest in Genk's Oh Hyeon-gyu and Manchester City's Oscar Bobb.
Chelsea's Youth-Focused Transfer Strategy
Chelsea continue their policy of acquiring young talent, with several centre-backs in their sights. Twenty-year-old Argentinian Aaron Anselmino, owned by the BlueCo group, is returning from a loan at Borussia Dortmund. Crystal Palace are rumoured to be keen on Chelsea youngster Josh Acheampong, highly rated by the club's hierarchy, with Bayern Munich also monitoring the situation. A loan to Palace could see Acheampong fill the void left by Marc Guéhi.
Additionally, Chelsea retain interest in Rennes' France Under-21 centre-back Jérémy Jacquet and teenager Mohamed Kader Meité, the latter also wanted by Manchester United. The club are also linked with Paris Saint-Germain's Senegalese forward Ibrahim Mbaye, another target for Manchester United, indicating shared scouting insights. PSG, however, are unlikely to let Mbaye leave cheaply after his impressive Afcon performances.
As the transfer window progresses, these rumours highlight the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of football's player market, where not every deal materialises but speculation keeps fans and pundits engaged.
