🔥 Liverpool Close in on Double Deal as United Face Mainoo Crisis

Happy Sunday! Welcome to today's Transfer News Podcast newsletter. The January window is absolutely heating up, and we've got some massive developments to cover - from Liverpool's double swoop to a potential crisis at Manchester United with Kobbie Mainoo. Let's dive into all the action from January 4, 2026.

Liverpool are making serious moves this January, with two significant deals reportedly in the works. First up, Ordonez is close to joining the Reds as Arne Slot looks to strengthen his squad depth across multiple competitions. With Liverpool competing on all fronts, this addition could prove crucial for squad rotation.

But the real headline grabber? Antoine Semenyo reportedly prefers a move to Liverpool over all other suitors. The Bournemouth winger has been in exceptional form this season, and his preference for Anfield is a major boost for the Reds. However, this isn't a straightforward deal...

Semenyo's situation is developing into one of the window's most intriguing sagas. Five clubs are now reportedly in the chase for the Ghanaian international, including:

Manchester United are particularly interesting here. Ruben Amorim clearly sees Semenyo as someone who can provide the directness and goal threat United have been desperately lacking this season. His form at Bournemouth has been nothing short of excellent, making him one of the hottest properties in this window.

FPL Angle: Keep a very close eye on where Semenyo lands. If he joins Liverpool or United, his attacking returns could skyrocket with better service and more scoring opportunities. His current Bournemouth form already makes him an interesting asset, but a move to a top-six club could transform him into a premium midfield option.

Kobbie Mainoo reportedly wants to leave Manchester United - a bombshell development that could shake up the club's entire midfield plans. The young midfielder has been seen as a cornerstone of United's future, making this reported desire to exit particularly significant.

However, Manchester United could block any move. The club still values Mainoo highly, and manager Ruben Amorim may work to convince him that his future lies at Old Trafford. This situation bears watching closely as the window progresses.

In response to the potential midfield shake-up, United are considering moves for:

United are also monitoring James McAtee alongside Leeds United. The Manchester City midfielder could be available, and Amorim sees him as someone who could add quality to the squad.

FPL Angle: This is a developing situation to monitor. If Mainoo's game time becomes uncertain or he moves, it could affect United's midfield dynamics. Conversely, if Gallagher joins on loan, he could become an interesting budget option given his energy and attacking contributions. Garner's potential return is less exciting from an FPL perspective unless he nails down a regular starting role.

This one looks imminent. Brennan Johnson wasn't named in the Tottenham squad recently as his move to Crystal Palace edges closer. Oliver Glasner is looking to add pace and directness to his attack, and Johnson fits that profile perfectly.

Palace have now reportedly agreed personal terms with the Welsh winger. This transfer could be announced very soon, representing a significant coup for the Eagles as they look to add quality wide attacking options.

FPL Angle: Johnson's Fantasy potential changes dramatically with this move. At Spurs, his minutes were inconsistent. At Palace, he could become a regular starter under Glasner's system, which creates chances for attacking players. Monitor his price (likely to be mid-range) and early performances. If he hits the ground running with guaranteed minutes, he could become a differential option, especially if Palace's fixtures turn favorable.

Several clubs are actively hunting for striking reinforcements:

Fulham have set their sights on American striker Ricardo Pepi, valued at £40 million. Marco Silva is in the market for striking options as the Cottagers push for European qualification. Pepi's profile fits what Fulham are looking for - pace, technical ability, and a proven goal-scoring record.

FPL Angle: At £40m, Pepi would be a significant investment for Fulham, which suggests he'd be their main striker if the deal happens. Fulham create chances, and their push for Europe means they're taking the season seriously. If Pepi arrives and starts regularly, he could be worth monitoring, especially if priced as a budget forward option (sub-£7.0m). Watch his early performances and conversion rate.

Nuno Espirito Santo is desperately seeking goals at West Ham, with multiple strikers on the radar:

West Ham are also watching in-form Adam Clayton as Nuno explores multiple options to strengthen his squad for the second half of the season.

FPL Angle: West Ham's striker situation is crucial for FPL managers. They desperately need goals, so whoever arrives will likely be nailed on to start. Strand Larsen has Championship pedigree and physicality that could suit the Premier League. However, West Ham's underlying numbers and chance creation haven't been great, so any new striker would need time to settle. Probably one to watch rather than immediately buy.

Roma are experiencing a deadlock in their pursuit of Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutch forward's situation at Manchester United remains unclear, and negotiations have hit a stumbling block. This one doesn't look like it's progressing quickly.

Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi continues to attract serious interest from multiple top clubs:

Guehi's stock remains incredibly high despite Barcelona stepping back. Multiple European giants are monitoring his situation, and a big-money summer move looks increasingly likely.

FPL Angle: If Guehi moves to Manchester City in the summer, his FPL appeal could increase significantly. City defenders historically perform well due to clean sheet potential, though their defensive record has been shakier this season. For now, he remains a mid-priced Palace defender. His value really depends on where he ends up - a move to City would make him very interesting for next season.

Nathan Ake has rejected a move to West Ham. The Dutch defender appears content at the Etihad, which is a blow for Nuno Espirito Santo who's been actively searching for defensive reinforcements this window.

Two La Liga clubs are battling for Marcos Senesi from Bournemouth. The Argentine centre-back has been impressive in the Premier League, and Spanish clubs are taking notice of his performances.

Oscar Bobb is attracting serious attention, with Borussia Dortmund reportedly leading the race for his signature. The Norwegian youngster has impressed when given opportunities at Manchester City, and a loan move could be on the cards to ensure regular playing time and continued development.

FPL Angle: If Bobb moves to Dortmund on loan, he's off the FPL radar for this season. At City, his minutes were too sporadic to consider seriously. This is more relevant for long-term planning - if he excels in Germany and returns to City next season with a guaranteed role, he could become an interesting budget option. One to file away for future reference.

Mohamed Salah remains the top priority for the Saudi Pro League. The Egyptian's contract situation at Liverpool continues to be a major talking point, and the Middle Eastern clubs are circling with significant financial power. This saga will likely dominate headlines throughout the window and beyond.

Newcastle's Joelinton is also being targeted by Saudi Pro League clubs. The Brazilian has been integral to Eddie Howe's plans, so it'll be interesting to see if the Magpies entertain any offers or hold firm on keeping him.

FPL Angle: Salah's situation is critical for FPL managers. He remains one of the game's premium assets, but any uncertainty around his future could affect performance or playing time. For now, keep him in your team unless concrete news emerges about an imminent departure. His ownership and points potential are too high to drop on speculation alone. Joelinton's potential exit is less impactful for FPL - he's a rotation risk and not a common pick.

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That's everything from today's transfer roundup! The January window is absolutely flying, and we'll be back tomorrow with more updates, breaking news, and FPL insights. Make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss any crucial developments that could affect your team.

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