🚨 Salah's Future REVEALED, Palace Close Johnson Deal & United Star Wants OUT

Happy Saturday, FPL managers! Welcome to your comprehensive transfer news briefing for January 3rd, 2026. The January window is in full swing and yesterday's developments have massive implications for your Fantasy Premier League squads. From Liverpool's Salah situation to Crystal Palace's exciting attacking addition and Manchester United's midfield crisis, we've got all the details you need to stay ahead of the game.

Liverpool are set to strengthen their backline with the signing of Ordonez, according to reports emerging yesterday. Manager Arne Slot is looking to maintain Liverpool's challenge across multiple competitions, and this defensive addition could provide crucial depth.

FPL Impact: While Ordonez himself won't be immediately FPL-relevant, this strengthens Liverpool's already impressive defensive structure. Their clean sheet potential remains elite, making Trent Alexander-Arnold (£7.0m), Andy Robertson (£6.5m), and Virgil van Dijk (£6.5m) excellent long-term holds. Liverpool defenders currently rank among the top point-scorers in their positions.

The big one: Mohamed Salah remains the top priority for Saudi Pro League clubs, with Roma also reportedly interested in a sensational return for the Egyptian superstar. His contract situation at Liverpool continues to dominate headlines as we enter the crucial final months of his current deal.

Current FPL Stats:

FPL Decision: Until there's concrete movement, Salah remains a must-own asset. The Saudi interest is nothing new, and Roma's reported interest seems more speculative. Keep him in your team unless official confirmation emerges. His fixtures and form make him undroppable right now, and Liverpool will be desperate to keep him performing at peak level through the title race.

BREAKING: Crystal Palace have agreed personal terms with Brennan Johnson and are set to complete the signing from Tottenham. The winger wasn't named in Spurs' squad recently, which confirms how advanced this deal is. Manager Oliver Glasner has secured the pace and directness Palace desperately need.

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank addressed Johnson's absence, saying they're 'close to some of the rumours' - about as clear a confirmation as you'll get from a manager.

FPL Impact:

For existing Johnson owners in FPL: Wait for official confirmation, but this move could actually improve his FPL viability if he becomes a guaranteed starter at Palace. The Eagles create chances but have lacked clinical finishing.

Kobbie Mainoo Wants Out

In potentially devastating news for United, Kobbie Mainoo reportedly wants to leave Old Trafford. The 20-year-old midfielder has been one of United's few bright spots, but United could block the move, recognizing his immense potential. Manager Ruben Amorim faces a serious challenge to keep his young star happy.

United's Transfer Activity:

FPL Impact: United's midfield uncertainty makes their assets risky. Bruno Fernandes (£8.3m) remains their most reliable FPL option, but Mainoo's potential departure could disrupt their entire system. If Gallagher arrives on loan, he could be interesting at the right price, but wait for confirmation of his role.

The Semenyo Complication: Here's where it gets interesting - Antoine Semenyo actually prefers a move to Liverpool if he leaves Bournemouth, despite United's interest. Five clubs are chasing his signature after his excellent form this season. At Bournemouth, he's proven to be a solid FPL mid-price option. His next destination will be crucial for his FPL value - Liverpool would make him more attractive, United more risky.

Nuno Espirito Santo is leaving no stone unturned in his search for attacking reinforcements. West Ham are pursuing multiple targets:

Defensive News: Nathan Ake rejected a move to West Ham, with the Manchester City defender content at the Etihad despite limited playing time. This is frustrating for Nuno as he searches for defensive reinforcements as well.

FPL Impact: This is a 'wait and see' situation. West Ham's attacking output has been inconsistent, so any of these signings could become relevant if they hit form. Sterling would be the most interesting from an FPL perspective if he rediscovers his form, but his recent seasons suggest caution. Castellanos could be a budget striker option if priced attractively. Monitor their fixtures once these deals progress.

Oscar Bobb is attracting serious attention, with Borussia Dortmund leading the race for the young Norwegian's signature. Pep Guardiola is keen to keep promising youngsters, but game time guarantees elsewhere can be tempting for developing talent.

James McAtee is being monitored by both Chelsea and Leeds United. The young midfielder needs regular football, and with Enzo Maresca at Chelsea and Daniel Farke at Leeds both looking for creativity, this could develop into an interesting battle for his signature.

Marc Guehi Pursuit: Manchester City are planning to target Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi in the summer. Barcelona have reportedly cooled their pursuit, but Bayern Munich are also planning talks. The England international is clearly one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe right now.

FPL Impact: If Guehi moves to City in summer, he becomes an immediate FPL consideration at £5.0-5.5m. City defenders historically offer excellent value. For now, keep an eye on his Palace performances - at £4.5m currently, he's already decent value for a nailed-on Premier League defender in a team that occasionally keeps clean sheets.

FULHAM - Ambitious Attacking Move

Fulham are showing ambition with interest in Ricardo Pepi, valued at £40 million. Marco Silva has been vocal about the club being on the same page regarding their clear transfer needs. Expect the Cottagers to be busy this month as they push for European qualification.

FPL Note: If Pepi arrives, monitor closely. Fulham create chances, and a clinical finisher could be FPL gold at the right price.

NEWCASTLE - Saudi Interest in Key Player

Joelinton is being targeted by Saudi Pro League clubs. Eddie Howe will want to keep the Brazilian, who's been crucial to Newcastle's system, but the financial power of the Saudi league is difficult to ignore. For FPL managers, this is concerning if you own any Newcastle assets - losing Joelinton would disrupt their entire midfield structure.

BOURNEMOUTH - Defensive Movements

Marcos Senesi is wanted by two La Liga clubs, showing the continued pull of Spanish football for South American players. Meanwhile, Celtic have agreed a loan deal for a Bournemouth defender, strengthening their Scottish Premiership challenge.

ROMA - Striker Deal Stalls

Joshua Zirkzee's potential move to Roma has hit a deadlock, leaving the striker's future uncertain. He needs clarity on his situation as the window progresses.

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That's your complete transfer briefing for January 3rd! The window is heating up fast, and we'll keep you updated with every development that matters for your FPL team.

Good luck with your transfers this week, and may your differentials haul big! ⚽📈