The January transfer window is fully up and running, and the phones have been ringing nonstop. From Premier League clubs scrambling for cover to ambitious lower-league sides dreaming big, it’s been one of those days where movement feels inevitable — even when deals aren’t quite done yet. Here’s a full run-through of the latest developments, reshaped and retold from today’s conversations around the game.
Jesse Lingard Nears a Decision on His Next Chapter
Jesse Lingard is edging closer to settling his future. The former Manchester United and England forward, now a free agent after leaving FC Seoul in December, has spoken with several clubs in Britain over the past few days — including teams in the Premier League.
But momentum appears to be building elsewhere. Sources suggest the 33-year-old is now deep in discussions with clubs in Italy’s Serie A, with negotiations progressing quickly. Nothing is signed yet, but Lingard looks closer than ever to choosing his next destination.
Ipswich Stand Firm as Derby Test the Water for Szmodics
Derby County have had an approach knocked back after trying to prise Sammie Szmodics away from Ipswich Town.
The 33-year-old striker remains central to Ipswich’s plans, particularly as the club looks to strengthen its own attacking options.
Derby are now weighing up whether to return with an improved bid, but Ipswich are reluctant to weaken up front unless they can secure suitable replacements.
Adama Traore Reunites With Familiar Faces at West Ham
Adama Traore is officially a West Ham player. The winger has completed his move from Fulham in a deal worth £1 million, with a further £1 million payable should the Hammers avoid relegation.
Traore is reuniting with Nuno Espirito Santo and couldn’t hide his enthusiasm after sealing the switch.
He spoke about belief, constant improvement, and embracing challenges — themes that have followed him throughout his career.
Fulham, meanwhile, continue working behind the scenes on potential deals for Manchester City’s Oscar Bobb and PSV striker Ricardo Pepi.
Their initial £28m bid for Pepi was rejected, but discussions are ongoing around a package that could rise to £35m.
Douglas Luiz Set for Aston Villa Return After Medical
Douglas Luiz is undergoing medical checks ahead of a return to Aston Villa.
The midfielder’s loan spell at Nottingham Forest has been cut short so Villa can bring him back amid an injury crisis.
The deal includes an option to buy for £21m plus add-ons, and Villa’s need has intensified following confirmation that Youri Tielemans will be sidelined for around eight weeks.
Salford Plot Ambitious Move for McAtee
Salford City are lining up an eye-catching bid for Bolton Wanderers midfielder John McAtee as they chase promotion. McAtee, who cost Bolton £1m when he joined from Luton Town, has drawn interest from several League One sides including Lincoln City, Bradford City and Huddersfield.
While game time has been limited at points this season, Bolton have won both matches McAtee has started recently.
Salford believe a return to his hometown could be a compelling pitch — even as they look to bounce back from a costly defeat to Chesterfield.
Burnley Close In on Ward-Prowse Loan
Burnley are set to finalise the loan signing of James Ward-Prowse from West Ham.
The experienced midfielder has travelled north for his medical and is expected to link up with Scott Parker imminently.
Sam Surridge Leaning Toward Staying in MLS
Ipswich Town have asked about Nashville SC striker Sam Surridge after his prolific start to life in Major League Soccer.
The former Nottingham Forest forward has caught the eye with his scoring form in Tennessee.
Despite interest from England, Surridge is currently inclined to remain in the United States, where he has settled well and continues to thrive.
Moyes Looks Elsewhere Despite Norton-Cuffy Availability
David Moyes has cooled interest in Genoa right-back Brooke Norton-Cuffy for now.
While Everton remain keen to strengthen at right-back and up front, the former Arsenal youngster is no longer a priority.
Other names — including Bologna’s Emil Holm and Strasbourg’s Guela Doue — have been discussed internally, but Moyes is still searching for the right balance.
Dembele Calm as PSG Contract Questions Linger
Ousmane Dembele is unfazed by speculation linking him with a move to Saudi Arabia
. The Ballon d’Or winner remains happy at Paris Saint-Germain and maintains strong relationships with both club president Nasser El Khelaifi and head coach Luis Enrique.
While comments about PSG’s wage structure raised eyebrows, Dembele still has two and a half years left on his deal, and no formal talks over an extension have begun.
West Ham Explore Defensive Loans After Squad Shake-Up
West Ham have opened talks over loan deals for Tottenham goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky and Chelsea defender Axel Disasi following the return of Igor Julio to Brighton.
With two domestic loan slots now available, the Hammers are assessing several defensive options.
Traore’s arrival is expected to be confirmed imminently, while Ward-Prowse’s move to Burnley is close to completion.
Wolves Keepers Attract Premier League Attention
Tottenham have approached Wolves regarding a potential loan move for Sam Johnstone — a move that would allow Kinsky to leave North London.
However, Wolves’ situation is complicated by Nottingham Forest’s interest in their other goalkeeper, Jose Sa.
Villa Strengthen Further With Abraham and Luiz Deals
Aston Villa have agreed terms to bring Douglas Luiz back from Juventus on loan, ending his Forest spell early.
That move follows confirmation of Tammy Abraham’s £18.25m transfer from Besiktas.
The England striker has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract as Villa continue an aggressive window.
Wolves Chase Angel Gomes and Sinayoko
Wolves are targeting Marseille midfielder Angel Gomes on loan as they look to bolster their midfield.
They are also keen on Auxerre forward Lassine Sinayoko, with talks ongoing.
Bournemouth Land Brazilian Starlet Rayan
Bournemouth have completed the signing of teenage winger Rayan from Vasco da Gama in a deal that could reach £30.3m.
The 19-year-old has committed to a five-and-a-half-year contract, which includes a hefty £86.8m release clause.
Ipswich Test Leeds’ Resolve Over Piroe
Ipswich Town have enquired about Leeds United striker Joel Piroe but face resistance, with the forward reluctant to move during this window.
The club have, however, confirmed the loan signing of Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil.
Hull Move for Koumas as Mrozek Eyes MLS Switch
Hull City are pushing to sign Liverpool youngster Lewis Koumas on loan, while also finalising a deal for Manchester United midfielder Toby Collyer.
Elsewhere, Liverpool goalkeeper Fabian Mrozek is in talks over a loan move to MLS side FC Cincinnati, with the option for the deal to become permanent.
Brighton Face Competition for Defensive Targets
Paris FC want Brighton defender Diego Coppola on loan, while Brighton, Crystal Palace and Wolfsburg are all tracking Toulouse centre-back Charlie Cresswell.
Brighton have also turned away an enquiry from Nottingham Forest for captain Lewis Dunk.
Burnley, Birmingham and Beyond: More Moves Take Shape
Burnley full-back Oliver Sonne is due to undergo a medical ahead of a loan switch to Sparta Prague.
Birmingham City have confirmed the £7m signing of winger Carlos Vicente from Deportivo Alaves.
Conor Coady is in talks over a loan exit from Wrexham to Charlton Athletic, while Leicester City continue negotiations to sell Boubakary Soumare to Qatari side Al-Duhail SC.
Sheffield United’s Ryan One is heading to Lincoln City on loan, Coventry have landed Jahnoah Markelo from FC Zurich, and Club Bruges are monitoring Reading teenager Andre Garcia.
What Comes Next?
With days still to run and pressure building, this window shows no signs of slowing down.
Big names, bold gambles, and last-minute twists are all firmly on the table — and that’s before the deadline panic truly kicks in.
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