Premier League LIVE: Saudi to bid for Duran, West Ham discuss Brobbey loan, Arteta on Arsenal signings, Chelsea eye Garnacho

Saturday, January 25

Sunday, January 26

Villa set for Saudi Duran bid

Saudi Pro League side are preparing an offer for Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran, talkSPORT understands.

Duran has a contract that runs until 2030 at Villa, who don't want to sell the 21-year-old Colombian.

Al Nassr are still set to attempt a deal, although it's going to take at least €100million [£84.4million] for their offer to stand a chance.

Duran is Villa's top scorer this season with 12 goals in all competitions, two more than Ollie Watkins.

He was linked with a summer move to West Ham, who saw a January bid of £57million rejected recently.

Madrid facing longer wait for Trent

Real Madrid will reportedly find it 'almost impossible' to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold this month.

Spanish outlet MARCA report that an agreement between Madrid and the Liverpool defender is 'well advanced'.

However, it is expected to be finalised in the summer and therefore there is little chance of the move being completed in January.

Alexander-Arnold's contract at Liverpool expires at the end of the season and he has been a long-term target for Madrid.

The LaLiga leaders have been missing right-back Dani Carvajal since October after he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament.

Destination - Champions League

Pep Guardiola insists that Manchester City can still qualify for the Champions League despite their underwhelming season.

City are fifth in the Premier League and two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea, who they host on Saturday evening.

Victory would see them leapfrog the Blues into the top four whilst they already face the prospect of exiting the Champions League this season.

"Very important," Guardiola said on the importance of the match against Chelsea this weekend.

"For the quality of the side, the way Chelsea have been, they're close in the table.

"Even the big, big problems we had in the past and risen past, yeah, the goal this week is really, really important.

"The next two games are finals for us so with our people, they're going to support us to do the performance, take the result and win it."

"We can make it," Guardiola said when asked about whether it'd be a concern if they missed out on the Champions League.

Then when questioned on his confidence in doing so, Guardiola replied: "Why should [I] think differently?"

Van Nistelrooy isn't backing down

Ruud van Nistelrooy has emphasised his motivation to change Leicester City's fortunes.

The Foxes have suffered seven consecutive defeats in the Premier League and dropped into the relegation zone.

Leicester are two points away from safety but face tough upcoming fixtures against teams including Tottenham and Arsenal.

However, manager Van Nistelrooy is determined to turn their season around and offer hope of avoiding the drop.

"It's clear that what we have now, I believe in these players that we have now," he said in his press conference on Friday.

"We're looking to strengthen with possibilities that really strengthen this squad, that is the focus for now."

"The relationship with players and the manager and coaches is one of development, of improvement, of praise.

"Things that are done well are addressed, and what can improve are addressed, we're aligned with that.

"We're a unit, we're united as players, as a squad and as staff. There's very good communication there.

"I'm very motivated to change this situation round, and it's the only way you can get out of a difficult situation.

"As you all know, when you are in adversity, it's about unity, it's about hard work, it's about dedication, it's about keep going, it's about rolling up your sleeves, it's about staying together.

"That's where we are at the moment."

Strong statement

Manchester United have announced they will investigate away fans in the home end at Old Trafford on Thursday night.

Numerous Rangers fans were spotted amongst home supporters in United's 2-1 Europa League win over the Scottish giants.

This came after clashes on the streets of Manchester ahead of kick-off that led to police making 39 arrests for a variety of offences.

During the match, Rangers fans could be see celebrating Cyriel Dessers' equalising goal amongst home fans.

United have released a statement saying: "In anticipation of the risks around tonight’s game, we took the strictest possible measures to prevent sales to away fans in home areas.

"Tickets were only allocated to people who existed on our database prior to the draw taking place in August. Hospitality tickets had the same restrictions applied.

"Tickets forwarded by season ticket-holders and members also had the same restrictions applied [i.e. they could only be forwarded to fans on our database prior to the draw].

"Whilst the unauthorised touting of tickets has become more difficult since our introduction of in-app digital ticketing, it cannot be completely eliminated.

"All examples of away fans in home areas will be investigated over the coming days, with the strongest possible sanctions taken against the registered holders."

'Couldn't be prouder'

Ange Postecoglou has lauded his Tottenham squad for how they've dealt with the clubs continuous injury issues.

Spurs have been without a number of key stars in recent weeks and seen fluctuant results across all competitions as a result.

Guglielmo Vicario, Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are among the most notable absentees.

Postecoglou also revealed on Thursday night after their 3-2 win over Hoffenheim that Dominic Solanke is set for six weeks out.

However, he has praised his players for overcoming their recent fitness challenges: "It's not about me, it's about the players.

"It is getting increasingly difficult for them to maintain performance, for sure, because they're giving everything and it's a small group.

"We should have some light at the end of the tunnel in the next couple of weeks, it's not as dire.

"But at the same time, there's always the possibility that before those guys come back, the loads we're putting on these guys, we might lose a couple of these.

"So that's always the challenging bit, that's what we've been going through, it's been two months of hard grind for the players.

"As I keep saying, just trying to support them as much as we can and help them through it.

"We're working awfully hard on not just the game time but in between games to recover and give themselves the best chance of putting in the performances that are needed at this level.

"Obviously our schedule is not going to ease up at all, we've got a massive game this week and a massive week coming in a couple of weeks' time [Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Liverpool].

"But at the same time, the resilience and the determination of the players to still get out there and perform is a fantastic thing for me to witness, I couldn't be prouder of them."

City 1-0 Newcastle

Eddie Howe has spoken on the harsh reality of the transfer market after Newcastle missed out on one of Manchester City's new arrivals.

Abdukodir Khusanov signed for City from Lens on Monday in a deal worth £33million plus add-ons.

Khusanov's agent Gairat Khasbiullin has since revealed in an interview with Championat that Newcastle were keen on the defender.

"Newcastle was very close to a deal," he said. "They were even one of the favourites, and then they were the last to leave the race with City.

"As far as I understand, financial fair play also played a role. And they didn’t have enough time. Perhaps, if they had made an offer earlier, they would have managed to reach an agreement.

"Then City put so much pressure on Lens that it was difficult to make a comparable offer. The fact that the French needed this saving money also played a role."

Howe was asked about Khasbiullin's comments in his press conference and said: "We did the work.

"We've identified players that we'd like to sign, we've spoken to the representatives because you have to do the process right.

"If something happens and we are able to recruit, you can't then start from zero.

"So of course we're seeing players that we've identified and liked, targeted, move to other clubs, but that's always part of the game."

Arteta needs the right man

Mikel Arteta has insisted that Arsenal will only make an attacking signing this month if they're 'the right player'.

There's a sense that the Gunners need to strengthen their attack if they are to win this season's Premier League title.

Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus have become long-term absences through injury so January presents the chance to sign additions.

Arsenal are yet to welcome any signings in the window but Arteta says they won't sign anyone for the sake of it.

"My opinion is clear," he said in his pre-match press conference.

"We lost two very important players, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. So we lack goals, we lack people, we lack options in the front line, it's clear."

When asked if it's essential for Arsenal to sign forward option, he said: "If we can get the right player, that's why we are actively looking at it. Any player? No.

"Someone that makes us better and has an impact in the team. It's clear from the period that we've lost them, ideally we need some help.

"We're very short already and we're even shorter as a team that still copes with that. But we have to do what is right with the club."

Arteta was also asked about their links to Wolves star Matheus Cunha but he replied: "I prefer not to talk about individuals."

'I'm happy'

Enzo Maresca has no concerns with his winger options at Chelsea amid their interest in Alejandro Garnacho.

talkSPORT understands the Blues are ready to open talks with Manchester United over a January deal for the Argentine.

United's asking price is understood to be between £60-70million, with Napoli falling short of this fee.

Garnacho could arrive as yet another winger option for Chelsea, but head coach Maresca is already content with his current choices.

"I'm happy with the ones we have at this moment," he said.

"We said many times, on the right side it's Pedro [Neto] and Noni [Madueke], the left side is Jadon [Sancho].

"Misha [Mykhailo Mudryk] was with us but now he's not with us. Tyrique [George] I think is a young profile that can help us so in this moment, we are ok."

'Not expecting months'

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has provided an update on Curtis Jones' fitness after he came off at half-time against Lille.

Jones didn't emerge after the break in their Champions League win and now Slot has ruled him out of their clash with Ipswich.

The Reds boss said this morning: "It's mostly not a good sign and it wasn't, because he won't be available.

"The rest we have to see. Not expecting months but let's see if he can play against Bournemouth or PSV."

He continued to speak about Ibrahima Konate who has been managing a knee injury in recent weeks.

"You have seen how we managed that [injury]," Slot explained.

"Jarell [Quansah] played against Lille and Accrington. That is a bit because he has some pain, we don't exaggerate it but he feels it a bit.

"It's safe for him to play but you're aware of playing someone evetry 3 days when they have been out for a bit.

"He is not in a moment where he can play 3 times a week."

Incoming

West Ham are discussing a deal to sign Ajax striker Brian Brobbey on loan, talkSPORT understands.

Brobbey has emerged as the Hammers' top target after positive talks between the two clubs on Thursday.

The 22-year-old scored 22 goals in all competitions last season, but has struggled this campaign with just four in 28 appearances.

Graham Potter seems to have moved onto his next option after missing out on Jhon Duran.

Aston Villa rejected a huge £57million bid earlier this week.

West Ham are also in talks with RB Leipzig for Andre Silva but Potter would prefer Brobbey.

Zinchen-going

Oleksandr Zinchenko could be set to leave Arsenal.

The Telegraph have reported that the Gunners defender is expected to depart before the end of the transfer window.

Borussia Dortmund are also said to be ready to move for Zinchenko this month.

The left-back has made just two Premier League starts for Arsenal this season and played only 408 minutes across all competitions.

Myles Lewis-Skelly has recently been a preferred option in the position for Mikel Arteta.

Leaving it late

Bruno Fernandes scored a stoppage-time winner against Rangers to take Manchester United one step close to the Europe League last 16.

A Jack Butland own-goal gave United an early second half lead before Rangers hit back with two minutes to play through Cyriel Dessers.

However, Fernandes struck from a Lisandro Martinez cross in front of the Stretford End to seal the 2-1 win.

United have risen to fourth in the Europa League and are on course to advance straight through to the last 16 of the competition.

All 36 competing clubs play their final fixtures next Thursday, with Ruben Amorim's side travelling to FC Steaua Bucuresti.

Solanke facing long lay-off

Ange Postecoglou has revealed that Dominic Solanke is set for six weeks on the sidelines.

Solanke twisted his knee during training last week and missed their 3-2 defeat to Everton at the weekend.

He was also absent on Thursday night for the 3-2 Europa League victory at Hoffenheim and won't return for their next run of games.

"With Dom [Solanke] the information now is around the six week mark with him," Postecoglou said afterwards.

"No surgery but we're looking around six weeks. It might be quicker but we'll see."

Garnacho starts

Amid all of the talk surrounding Alejandro Garnacho and a potential move to Chelsea before the end of the window...

He starts for Manchester United tonight!

talkSPORT brought you the news earlier that Chelsea are ready to open talks over a potential move for Garnacho.

But the Argentinian is part of the United front three against Rangers in the Champions League.

Antony is on the bench for Ruben Amorim's side too, despite being expected to complete his move to Real Betis soon.

You can follow the action from Old Trafford live HERE.

Wood extends

Nottingham Forest have confirmed that Chris Wood has signed a new contract until 2027.

Wood has been one of the Premier League's best players this season, netting 14 goals in 22 games so far.

His scoring tally has him fourth in the charts alongside Cole Palmer and four behind top scorer Mohamed Salah.

The 33-year-old has been rejuvenated under Nuno Espirito Santo and he's played a huge part in Forest's success this campaign.

Tying down their frontman will be a major boost for the Midlands side as they look to continue their push for the Champions League.

Wood said after signing his new deal: “I’m very excited and very happy to have it completed and done, and I’m looking forward to the next couple of years, at least.

“I saw the ambition when I first arrived. When I spoke to the owner and his family and saw where they want to be and where they see this Club to be - it was clear they have high ambitions and big dreams.

"He has backed the Club for years, even before promotion to the Premier League, which is fantastic, and the team is pushing in the right direction. 

“I’m excited for the future. This Club has a lot of potential to continue to grow and build, and that is what I want to be a part of.

"I can’t thank the fans enough, they always come in voice and they’re always behind the team and myself, it’s a pleasure playing in front of them. Here’s to a few more years together."

In and out

Tom Cannon has left Leicester City to join Sheffield United.

The striker was recalled from his loan at Stoke City last week, but now he's exited the Foxes permanently.

Cannon will be heading to Sheffield to return to Championship football and boost their promotion bid.

Leicester will be hoping to use the £10million fee to help add some new faces and fight against relegation.

Speaking after the signing was announced, Cannon said: "I am absolutely delighted to finally get it all done.

"To be a Sheffield United player, it is just amazing to get it over the line and I am just looking forward to stepping out at Bramall Lane and getting going.

"Everybody knows the size of the club, and the fanbase.

"I am just delighted to be here and after speaking to the manager, I heard nothing but good words about the place."

It's on

Chelsea are ready to open talks with Manchester United over a potential move for Alejandro Garnacho, talkSPORT understands.

United have been in discussions with Napoli over academy product Garnacho but the Italian side’s offer fell below United’s asking price of between £60 and £70 million.

Chelsea have been monitoring the situation and are weighing up whether to make a formal bid.

As exclusively revealed by talkSPORT this week Garnacho is reluctantly open to leaving Old Trafford over fears about where he fits into Ruben Amorim’s system.

Bade move

Aston Villa's proposed transfer for Loic Bade is on the rocks, talkSPORT understands.

The Villans were in negotiations with Sevilla over the centre-back, but the player is having second thoughts about the move.

Villa are therefore ready to pull the plug on the whole thing.

The Premier League side have submitted an offer worth a total of 25 million Euros, but Bade isn't convinced he'll get game time.

If the move collapses, it would leave Unai Emery's men short at the back, having decided to sell Diego Carlos to Fenerbahce.

Odd-one Edouard

Crystal Palace striker Odsonne Edouard has reportedly rejected a move to Atlanta United.

South London Press' football reporter Edmund Brack states that the MLS side submitted a £15 million offer for the forward.

However, the player didn't want to make the move, so the deal is off.

Edouard is currently on loan with Leicester City, but he is firmly third choice.

Jamie Vardy and Patson Daka are ahead of him in the pecking order.

He has played just 142 minutes of top-flight football this season and hasn't appeared since a 3-0 defeat to Manchester United in November.

Not everything is as it appears

If you look at this image of Amad Diallo in training very closely, you will notice something very unusual about it.

On the surface all appears fine, but if you dig deeper, you can see that the badge is upside down.

Clearly, someone has had a bit of a nightmare.

But one fan is adamant that kit has been bought from DH Gate and is a fake.

We'll probably never know either way, but it's funny.

George the fridge

talkSPORT understands that talks between Middlesbrough and Ipswich Town are underway regarding a permanent move for George Edmundson.

Affectionately known as 'the fridge', the defender can only play for Boro or the Tractor Boys this year having spent the first half of the season on loan with the Teesiders.

The 27-year-old's contract expires in the summer, meaning he'll be a free agent.

However, Michael Carrick's side are trying to finalise a deal for the centre-back.

During his time with Middlesbrough, Edmundson made 20 Championship appearances.

Missing out

talkSPORT understands that Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi is set for a £10 million move to Rennes.

The Japanese international has been on the radar of plenty of Premier League teams, but he has elected for a move to France.

The forward moved to Scotland in 2021, and he has gone on to score 85 goals in 165 appearances for the Bhoys.

Interestingly, Jota could return to Celtic Park in a separate deal from Rennes.

The Portuguese winger departed the Bhoys for a move to Saudi Arabia that never worked out, and he ended up in France.

But a return is on the cards.

Not so lucky black cat

talkSPORT understands that Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil is attracting the attention of two Premier League clubs.

West Ham and Everton are looking at January moves for Neil.

However, with the Black Cats looking to seal promotion to the top-flight this year, they are keen to hold onto Neil.

The 23-year-old is an academy graduate and boyhood Sunderland fan and the club captain.

Neil has made 28 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring once and setting up a further three.

Done deal

Ipswich Town have confirmed the loan signing of Julio Enciso until the end of the season.

The Paraguayan international has only made 12 Premier League appearances for Brighton this year, and he could make his debut against Liverpool at the weekend.

This follows on from an injury-hit campaign last year.

As a result, the attacking midfielder has been allowed to leave the south coast, and he can't wait to get started.

Speaking to the club's website, he said: “I am so happy to be here.

“The conversations with the Manager have been good. I am very grateful to him and the Club for believing in me. I can’t wait to get going.

“I’m a real fighter and I will do my best in every game.”