EPL Transfer News: Guehi to Bayern, Gallagher to Man United, Rodri’s Contract and More
Bayern Munich Step Up Interest in Marc Guéhi
Bayern Munich’s director of sport, Max Eberl, has hinted that the German champions are actively exploring the transfer market, with Crystal Palace centre back Marc Guéhi emerging as a prime target.
After a Deadline Day move to Liverpool fell through, Guéhi has become one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe. The Reds are expected to revisit their interest when his contract expires next summer, while Real Madrid and Barcelona are also believed to be preparing rival bids for the England international.
Reports in Germany revealed that Eberl recently met Guéhi’s agent in Munich, suggesting Bayern could be preparing an early move to secure his signature. When questioned about the meeting by DAZN, Eberl didn’t name Guéhi directly but confirmed that Bayern are in the market for a new central defender.
“It’s absolutely clear that we as Bayern Munich are exploring the market,” Eberl explained. “Our clear goal is to extend [Dayot Upamecano]’s contract. That’s our ultimate goal. If that doesn’t work out, we have to be prepared. We would be foolish not to. That’s the reason. I’ve not confirmed anything, but we are active in the market.”
Like Guéhi, Dayot Upamecano is also entering the final year of his contract, and his uncertain future could lead to significant defensive changes at the Allianz Arena. Both Liverpool and Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring the Frenchman’s situation closely.
Premier League Scouts Monitor Bayern Starlet Lennart Karl
While Bayern’s senior squad is the focus of major transfer speculation, attention is also turning to one of the club’s brightest emerging stars — Lennart Karl.
According to reports from Germany, scouts from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City are keeping close tabs on the 17-year-old winger, who has made a striking impact under Vincent Kompany this season.
Karl made his debut at the Club World Cup and has already featured 11 times for Bayern’s first team, scoring in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League. His rapid rise has been accelerated by the club’s failure to sign Florian Wirtz from Liverpool during the summer, opening a door for the youngster to prove himself on the big stage.
According to BILD, the Premier League trio are watching Karl’s progress closely, sparking concerns in Munich over a potential future exit. However, the player is currently tied to Bayern until 2028, having signed a new deal last summer. Sky Germany adds that Karl has already agreed to a professional extension that will activate when he turns 18 in February 2026.
There is no release clause included in his contract, and Karl’s focus reportedly remains on developing at Bayern. As one of the most hyped young talents in German football, he is attracting significant attention as the 2025–26 season gathers pace.
Manchester United Eye Conor Gallagher and Morten Hjulmand
Manchester United are reportedly preparing a £52.4 million bid for Atlético Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher in the January transfer window, according to Fichajes.
The Red Devils are also pursuing Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand, who is expected to cost around £50 million. However, both Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur are also in the race for the 26-year-old Dane, reports Football Insider.
Liverpool’s January Ambitions and Transfer Concerns
Liverpool are planning a move for Club Brugge centre back Joel Ordóñez in January and are reportedly willing to exceed his £34.9 million price tag, as reported by Bolavip. The Reds are also said to be ready to offer the player a lucrative salary package.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian clubs are preparing another attempt to sign Mohamed Salah next summer, according to indykalia. The Egyptian forward remains a long-term target in the Saudi Pro League’s efforts to lure global superstars.
Chelsea’s Defensive Overhaul Plans
Chelsea are expected to prioritise strengthening their defence in January. According to Football Insider, the Blues want to replace Trevoh Chalobah with a higher-profile centre back as part of their winter transfer strategy.
The club’s recruitment team are evaluating multiple targets as they aim to reinforce their back line and continue the squad overhaul under their current project.
Nottingham Forest Demand £120 Million for Elliott Anderson
Nottingham Forest have been alerted to growing interest in midfielder Elliott Anderson from both Manchester United and Newcastle United.
As per Florian Plettenberg, Forest are prepared to demand as much as £120 million for the player — a figure that could make him one of the most expensive transfers in Premier League history if a deal materialises.
Tottenham and Bayern in Race for Jonathan David
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly preparing to challenge Bayern Munich for Juventus striker Jonathan David.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, David’s underwhelming form in Turin has opened the door for a potential January departure, with both clubs ready to make moves for the Canadian international.
Manchester City Confident of Rodri Extension
Manchester City are said to be optimistic about securing a contract extension for star midfielder Rodri before the end of the calendar year, reports TBR Football.
Rodri remains a central figure in Pep Guardiola’s plans, and the club are keen to reward his consistency and leadership with a long-term deal.
Premier Lig Kulüpleri Chase Igor Thiago
Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are all planning January bids for Brentford striker Igor Thiago, according to CaughtOffside.
Thiago’s impressive performances have caught the eye of several top-flight clubs, setting up a potential transfer battle during the mid-season window.
Vinicius Junior Sparks Premier League Bidding War
Vinicius Junior’s growing desire to leave Real Madrid could trigger a fierce Premier League bidding war, claims The Sun.
Chelsea and Manchester City have previously shown strong interest in the Brazilian star, while Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United are also expected to join the race should he decide to move to England.
Tottenham Set £100 Million Price for Micky van de Ven
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly demanding £87.3 million to sell centre back Micky van de Ven amid interest from Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, according to Fichajes.
The Dutch defender has become a cornerstone of Tottenham’s back line, and the club are determined to resist offers unless their valuation is met.
Multiple Clubs Pursue Joshua Zirkzee and Endrick
Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee has attracted interest from Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion, and West Ham United, as per CaughtOffside.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have set firm conditions for any potential loan of striker Endrick. According to TEAMtalk, the Spanish giants want clubs to cover his salary in full in addition to paying a loan fee. Aston Villa and West Ham are exploring temporary deals, while Brighton are reportedly pursuing a permanent move.
