All Chelsea have signed 17 players for a total of £495m across the last two transfer windows following Todd Boehly's consortium's takeover; Graham Potter has the support of the Blues' owners - but what is his best XI? Will Enzo Fernandez become Chelsea's 18th signing?

 Graham Potter has plenty of options for his Chelsea XI

With 17 new players signed for a staggering total of £495m this season, Chelsea have dominated the headlines during the past two transfer windows.

The January deadline may be set for 11pm on Tuesday but there's still time for Chelsea to bring in yet another player, with the Blues not giving up hope of finally sealing a deal for Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez.

But while the stunning spending spree has captured supporters' attention and generated countless headlines, it has also left Graham Potter to solve the issue of what his best XI actually looks like...

Defenders: Reece James, Cesar Azpilicueta, Thiago Silva, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, Kalidou Koulibaly, Bashir Humphreys, Ben Chilwell, Marc Cucurella, Lewis Hall

Midfielders: N'Golo Kante, Mateo Kovacic, Denis Zakaria, Mason Mount, Conor Gallagher, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Carney Chukwuemeka, Andrey Santos

Forwards: Mykhailo Mudryk, Kai Havertz, Joao

Felix, Raheem Sterling, Christian Pulisic, Noni Madueke,  Armando Broja, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, David Datro Fofana, Omari Hutchinson

Potter settled on four at the back?

Potter's taste for tinkering is well established, but he has appeared to settle on a system since the World Cup, with Chelsea lining up with four defenders in six of their seven matches since the club season resumed.

Manchester United are being linked with a shock deadline day swoop for Barcelona star Raphinha.

 Manchester United could make an offer to sign Raphinha from Barcelona on transfer deadline day, according to reports. The Brazil international has struggled at the Nou Camp ever since his summer arrival from Leeds. However, the Red Devils will need to act quickly to secure his services with the clock ticking down

Man Utd’s unreal XI if Raphinha and Youri Tielemans seal deadline day transfers

Manchester United are adamant they won’t be adding to their squad on transfer deadline day. However, that hasn’t stopped links to Raphinha and Youri Tielemans from arising.

And there’s no denying both players would be impressive captures for the Red Devils if, somehow, deals could be struck.

DEADLINE DAY TRANSFER LIVE! 🚨ARSENAL, LIVERPOOL CHELSEA MANCHESTER UNITED. ✅

 Why Arsenal are chasing a Deadline Day deal for Jorginho

"People may be surprised, when you look at the profile of players Arsenal had been signing but Mikel Arteta had made the point on the day they signed Leandro Trossard that they need players who are fit and ready to go straight off in the Premier League. That's what Jorginho is. 

"Arsenal are short in the midfield area. Mohamed Elneny is out and there was no commitment from Arteta when he might be back. We know Thomas Partey picked up that injury in the cup and he's gone for an MRI on his ribs. So the squad is looking thin there. 

"Europe is about to start and they'll be going Thursday-Sunday-Thursday-Sunday and they want somebody else in. 

"Moises Caicedo is the man who's been attracting a lot of attention from Chelsea and Arsenal, who have made two bids.  Brighton are saying he's not for sale. 

"Had Arsenal not been in this position in the league, chasing their first title in almost two decades, would Arsenal and Arteta move in this way? But it makes it an interesting Deadline Day." 

Could Inter turn to Lindelof after missing Maguire?

Inter Milan are reportedly monitoring Premier League duo Victor Lindelof and Thilo Kehrer in their quest for a new centre-back today.

The Serie A outfit are hopeful of landing a new defender ahead of Milan Skriniar's imminent move to PSG, after the Slovakian gave a verbal agreement he would join the club.

Simone Inzaghi's side have enquired over Harry Maguire's availability but, should they fail to sign him, are open to the possibility of signing his Manchester United team-mate.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter will prioritise a move for either Lindelof or a permanent basis or Kehrer, who would arrive on a loan deal.

Could Chelsea spending smash £600m this season?

With 17 new players signed for a staggering total of £495m this season, Chelsea have dominated the headlines during the past two transfer windows.

The January deadline may be set for 11pm on Tuesday but there's still time for Chelsea to bring in yet another player, with the Blues not giving up hope of finally sealing a £105.6m deal for Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez.

If that deal completes, Chelsea's spending would smash through the £600m barrier this season!

Premier League side Liverpool are looking to make a shock move for Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante, according to reports.

The Reds are in desperate need of midfield reinforcements in the summer aftr Jurgen Klopp ruled out any new signings before the transfer deadline.

“No, no, no. Nothing will happen in this transfer window,” Klopp told beIN Sports after his side lost 2-1 to Brighton in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday.

Mourinho labels Osimhen a 'diver'

Jose Mourinho has labelled Manchester United target Victor Osimhen a 'diver'.

The Red Devils have been linked with an eye-watering £150million move for the powerful Napoli striker.

The Nigerian scored a brilliant goal in a 2-1 Serie A win against Mourinho's Roma yesterday.

Afterwards, ex-United boss Mourinho said: "If Victor changes then, OK, I’d buy him if I was at a club with a lot of money.

"However, if he does go to England one day, he needs to change, because in Italy they put up with this sort of behaviour.

"But in the Premier League, they’d come down hard on him."

Darwin Nunez starts in new role with new-look Liverpool midfield on the cards

Jurgen Klopp has a number of tough decisions to make ahead of Liverpool's trip to Wolves next weekend

BLOOD RED: “IT SHOULD BE BETTER” | JURGEN KLOPP ON BODY LANGUAGE OF PLAYERS

Liverpool are back in Premier League action on Saturday as they travel to Wolves, again, and look to bounce back after their last-minute FA Cup loss to Brighton.

The Reds drew 2-2 at home to the West Midlands outfit earlier this month before Harvey Elliott’s spectacular long-range effort set up a fourth round clash with the Seagulls. However, a last-minute strike from Kaoru Mitoma saw Liverpool’s cup defence come to a premature end.

Jurgen Klopp’s side currently sit ninth in the Premier League table, 10 points of the top four, while Wolves sit about the relegation zone on goal-difference alone. And with Liverpool winless since their last trip to Molineux, we take a look at the changes the German could make as the Reds’ look to reignite their fortunes once more against Julen Lopetegui’s side

Trent Alexander-Arnold was given another torrid afternoon by Mitoma at the Amex Stadium, and was visibly unimpressed when replaced on the hour-mark and sitting on the bench. However, Klopp would defend the right-back after the final whistle, admitting the right-back did not get support on the right-hand side.

If Liverpool wish to make a change, James Milner could return to the starting XI at right-back or Joe Gomez could switch to the flanks with Joel Matip coming in at centre-back. But while the Reds were unable to make it three clean sheets in a row on Sunday, it would still be a surprise to see Alexander-Arnold, who remains one of their most creative players, drop out.

As a result, it’s an unchanged back five with Virgil van Dijk not yet fit after a hamstring injury.

Milner in midfield

While Milner might not get the nod at right-back, he could come in to captain the side in midfield in place of Naby Keita and to offer Alexander-Arnold the support he was missing against Brighton.

The veteran continues to impress whenever turned to, and more in-form than alternatives Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, or Curtis Jones, is deserving of selection if Klopp wishes to rotate.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Elliott are also options, but Stefan Bajcetic and Thiago Alcantara look set to keep their places

Having come on as a substitute in Liverpool’s last two matches, Darwin Nunez is set to return to Klopp’s starting XI against Wolves. However, with Cody Gakpo seemingly first-choice in the central role at the moment, the Uruguayan will have to make do with a place on the left.

He's such a talent" - but poor at right-back Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp told to use Trent Alexander-Arnold in new position

 The right-back has struggled to find his best form this season. Liverpool lost 2-1 against Brighton & Hove Albion in the fourth round of the FA Cup on January 29.

Alexander-Arnold had a tough game against in-form Kaoru Mitoma and was subbed off in the 59th minute for James Milner.

10 - Kaoru Mitoma has completed 10 dribbles against Liverpool in all competitions this season, the most of any player, with half of those coming directly against Trent Alexander-Arnold. Ragged.

View image on Twitter

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Alexander-Arnold, who is known for his attacking prowess, has been consistently criticized for his defensive lapses. Allardyce believes Klopp should play the Liverpool right-back as a midfielder. On the No Tippy Tippy Football Podcast, he said:

"Jurgen has played him in the midfield a few times before now, and I just wonder whether he can actually go there and be great. It wouldn't bring up that defending side as much. He has the touch, and I know it's harder in there rather than full-back, but he is such a talent. And unfortunately, he's had a lot of stick and I think it's knocked his confidence."

Alexander-Arnold was also left unused by England manager Gareth Southgate during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

He has made 27 appearances for Liverpool this season, registering three goals and two assists.

Jurgen Klopp on Trent Alexander-Arnold's battle against Kaoru Mitoma in Liverpool's FA Cup exit

After the loss against Brighton, Klopp explained that Alexander-Arnold didn't get as much support against Mitoma as he should have. He praised the Japanese forward but admitted that his side could have defended better with both goals.

We came here after a game a few weeks ago when we weren’t even close to ourselves. Today we played a better game but we concede two goals from set-pieces and that is not allowed in any way. On the left side, Robbo was okay because we helped him but on the other side Trent didn’t get the support."

He added:

"Mitoma is really good so, of course, it was tough. We could have defended both goals better. The first is deflected but we can probably block the shot. It doesn’t feel great. In time we might see the positives but we wanted to get to the next round. Congratulations to Brighton."

Brighton have now played Liverpool thrice in all competitions this season, winning twice and drawing once.

Liverpool completed late January transfers as World Cup winner and emergency pair arrived JANUARY TRANSFER DEADLINE DAY: 🚨

 Liverpool to ‘make shock move’ for £20m ‘gem’ but face transfer fight with Premier League rivals

Liverpool are reportedly among two Premier League clubs ‘casting an eye over’ Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha amid his great form for the Londoners.

The 27-year-old has spent the majority of his career in Portugal with Sporting Lisbon prior to his move to the Premier League in the summer.

Fulham pulled off a coup to recruit the midfielder following their promotion. Man Utd and Wolves were linked with him but the Londoners got him for around £20m. 

Ahead of this season's deadline day on Tuesday, here are the eight signings Liverpool have made on previous January deadline days.

2007: Alvaro Arbeloa

Alvaro Arbeloa was a reliable option in either full-back berth

Alvaro Arbeloa was a reliable option in either full-back berth(Getty Images)

Signed from: Deportivo La Coruna

Fee: £2.6million

Having made little impression at Real Madrid, Arbeloa caught Liverpool's eye during a brief stint with Deportivo and Rafael Benitez was convinced to sign his fellow Spaniard at a bargain price.

I through the season, especially at the last minute. When they have, it has always involved multiple faces being hurried through the door somewhat frantically.

The deadline day of January 2011 is memorable for both the right and the wrong reasons, while the one four years prior was drastically more successful.

And in 2021, Liverpool were infamously forced to act at the eleventh hour after suffering another crucial injury blow during a fixture with Tottenham on 28 January.

Ahead of this season's deadline day on Tuesday, here are the eight signings Liverpool have made on previous January deadline days.

2007: Alvaro Arbeloa

Alvaro Arbeloa was a reliable option in either full-back berth

Alvaro Arbeloa was a reliable option in either full-back berth(Getty Images)

Signed from: Deporti

vo La Coruna

DONE DEAL✅Fabrizio Romano has latest update on Enzo Fernandez to Chelsea with meeting happening right now

 Fabrizio Romano has claimed on Twitter that Chelsea are in talks right now with Benfica to try and sign Enzo Fernandez this month.

The Blues reignited their interest in the Argentina international over the weekend, with them looking to put the final touches on a sensational January.

A midfielder feels all that is required to near-enough complete the rebuild at Stamford Bridge that was required after the dire start to the season.

However, Romano has stated that there is a meeting taking place right now as Chelsea have reached the fee which Benfica were requesting, albeit in different payment terms.

He said: “Meeting ongoing between Chelsea and Benfica for Enzo Fernández. Talks are taking place right now as Chelsea will push until the end. 

“Chelsea proposal: €120m in different instalments. No issues on player side and personal terms.”

The Blues have been well-documented in their approach for a midfielder this month, with them also showing plenty of interest in Brighton’s Moises Caicedo.

While these two players offer very different strengths, there is no doubting they would each be quality additions to a top team.

This perhaps explains why Arsenal have seemingly overtaken the Blues with a desire to sign Caicedo, despite Brighton’s resistance to part ways.

The player himself is very keen on a move to London, however it appears as if Chelsea’s interest has cooled for now as they look to bring in Fernand

ez.

ARSENAL TRANSFER NEWS LIVE RUMOURS Martinelli agrees new four-and-a-half year contract with Gunners

 Martinelli agrees new four-and-a-half year contract with Gunners

Gabriel Martinelli gestures towards supporters while celebrating his goal

Image:

Gabriel Martinelli is set to extend his stay at Arsenal

Gabriel Martinelli has agreed a new contract with Arsenal until the summer of 2027, according to The Athletic.

The Brazilian's current contract expires in the summer of 2024, but the report claims the 21-year-old has now agreed to fresh terms to extend his stay at the Emirates Stadium with the draft deal in the process of being finalised.

The forward has starred for the Premier League leaders this season having scored seven goals in 26 appearances in all competitions.

Arsenal's £60m bid for Caicedo rejected by Brighton

Arsenal have had a £60m bid for Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo rejected.

The south coast club insist Caicedo is not for sale in this January transfer window, but Arsenal remain interested and are deciding whether to go back in with an improved offer.

The bid was guaranteed a £60m fee. The biggest transfer fee Brighton have received in their history is the initial £57m plus add-ons from Chelsea for Marc Cucurella.

Chelsea are also interested in the midfielder - who Brighton bought for £4.5m from Independiente del Valle two years ago - but one source has told Sky Sports News a transfer to the Blues in January seems very unlikely as the clubs are "not in the same ball park" regarding valuations.

Last week, Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi said on Caicedo's future: "the best solution is that he finishes the season with us and in the summer he changes teams".

Caicedo has two and a half years left on his contract - and is unlikely to sign a new one. As a result, Brighton will be doing due diligence on a potential succession plan.

Brighton and Hove Albion 2 -1 Liverpool live match stream

Brighton 2-1 Liverpool

FULL TIME! No Caicedo, no problem! Brighton beat Liverpool for the second time in two weeks to claim their place in the fifth round of the FA Cup. What a season they are having. Just brilliant.

It looked like we were heading for a replay but Mitoma's wonderfully-taken winner clinched a deserved win to pile more pressure on Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp.

They are OUT of the FA Cup.

Brighton 2-1 Liverpool

90+6: Liverpool desperately trying to find a response but time is running out!

Brighton 1-1 Liverpool

HALF TIME! That's the half at the Amex. Super game. Liverpool led courtesy of Elliot's opener but Brighton levelled through Dunk and it's now nicely poised for the second half. Plenty of chances for both sides and hopefully more goals to come!

GOAL! Brighton 0-1 Liverpool (Elliot, 30)

That's clinical from Liverpool. Dunk gets tight to Salah and intercepts a long pass just inside the Liverpool half but Keita is there to put the ball straight back over the top for the Egyptian. 

He carries it into the space in front of him and plays in Elliot, who looks up and fires a low effort into the far corner. Steele got something on it, but not enough to prevent it from creeping in. 

There's a VAR check, but the goal stands. Advantage Liverpool!

Brighton 0-0 Liverpool

16: OUCH! A nasty one for Keita as he crashes to the turf awkwardly following an aerial challenge with Mac Allister but thankfully he's back on his feet and okay to continue.

Brighton 0-0 Liverpool

"Wonderful wide play from March - direct, decisive. His pullback was equally measured but Ferguson is wasteful. Hesitated for too long. Excellent anticipation from Alexander-Arnold, nevertheless." 

Brighton 0-0 Liverpool
15: OFF THE LINE! At the other end this time!

Huge chance for the hosts! Brighton steal possession in their own half and suddenly March is rampaging forward on the right. He cuts a low ball across goal but Ferguson's first touch is poor. He does get a shot off, but Alexander-Arnold is back on the line to make the clearance!

Brighton 0-0 Liverpool
Sky Sports' Laura Hunter at Amex Stadium:

"Mitoma is already terrorising Alexander-Arnold - getting at him at every opportunity, and so far edging the head-to-head. Intrigued to watch that battle play out. The Liverpool full-back can ill-afford to take his eyes off him." 

 Liverpool team news

Liverpool team: Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Gomez, Robertson, Bajcetic, Thiago, Keita, Elliot, Salah, Gakpo.

Subs: Kelleher, Fabinho, Milner, Henderson, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jones, Tsimikas, Nunez, Matip.

Brighton team news

Brighton team: Steele, Lamptey, Webster, Dunk, March, Mitoma, Estupinan, Mac Allister, Gross, Welbeck, Ferguson.

Subs: Sanchez, Sarmiento, Enciso, Undav, Gilmour, Van Hecke, Weltman, Moran, Hinshelwood.

Done Deal✅ McKennie are set to complete loan from Juventus with option to by in the summer

£30.7m Juventus star decides between Arsenal and Leeds United with transfer set ‘to be completed’

The USA international impressed at the World Cup. He caught the eye in the goalless draw in the group stages against Gareth Southgate’s England.

His situation at Juventus has been uncertain in recent months. They are keen to offload some squad players after it was confirmed that they have been docked 15 points over their capital gains violations.

McKennie has been regularly linked with a move to the Premier League over the past couple of years and a move has looked increasingly likely in recent days.

At the start of this week, it was reported that Arsenal were ready to ‘ignite’ their interest in the Juventus centre-midfielder.

The Gunners are in the market for a centre-midfielder after they failed to sign one during the summer transfer window.

Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka have both been in superb form this season but Mohamed Elneny’s injury leaves them short of options in the middle of the park.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta acknowledged earlier this week that they “need some cover in midfield”.

“Well, we need some more cover in midfield ideally if we can but obviously, in this market, it’s very complicated to do that,” Arteta told reporters.

McKennie completes loan. Leeds are set to complete the signing of Weston McKennie from Juventus

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Yorkshire giants will pay a loan fee of £1million and the option to buy him will cost £29m.

Arsenal had been interested in the midfielder, but the report reveals that Leeds president Andrea Radrizzani was able to make a breakthrough.

Romano tweeted: "Weston McKennie to Leeds, here we go! Understand Leeds will pay €1.2m loan fee — deal will include buy option clause for €33m plus add ons.

"Leeds president Radrizzani unlocked the deal with Juventus in the night. McKennie has agreed personal terms with Leeds"

Manchester United 3-0 Reading LIVE MATCH STREAM

FULL TIME! Make that 10 home wins in a row for Man Utd.

It was a night for the Brazilian's as Casemiro and Fred scored United's three goals.

Antony didn't get on the scoresheet but was Man Utd's standout player, setting up the first goal and causing problems for Reading throughout.

Reading's task got much harder when Carroll was sent off for a second bookable offence, but that didn't stop them getting a goal back on Paul Ince's return to Old Trafford.

United, though, held on to progress and avoid a replay. 

GOAL! Man Utd 0-0 Reading (Rashford, 35) goal rule out by VAR offside 

It's a scrappy goal from Rashford but he won't care.

Hold on, VAR is checking this for offside

 

Man Utd vs Reading teams reminder

Man Utd: De Gaa, Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Lindelof, Malacia, Eriksen, Casemiro, Fernandes, Antony, Weghorst, Rashford.

Subs: Heaton, Martinez, Varane, Williams, Fred, Mainoo, Pellistri, Elanga, Garnacho.

Reading: Lumley, Hoilett, Baba, Yiadom, McIntyre, Holmes, Hendrick, Loum, Ince, Joao, Carroll.

Subs: Bouzanis, Guinnes-Walker, Mbengue, Dann, Craig, Fornah, Azeez, Long, Meite.

WATCH : 😢Arsenal fans and Tottenham fans comment after what Kyle walker did to Zinchenko jersey after FA Cup win

 Tottenham fans are loving what Kyle Walker did to an Arsenal jersey after FA Cup win

Originally posted on BenchWarmers | By Sean Walker | Last updated 1/28/23

Former Tottenham player, Kyle Walker wasn’t too happy when a fan threw an Arsenal jersey at him while making his way down the tunnel after his FA Cup win on Friday night.

For the first time this season, Arsenal and Manchester City came face to face on the football field. Although it wasn’t as tense as one might like, it was a good rehearsal for the main event in a couple of weeks.

The two managers’ line-ups told us a lot about how seriously they were taking the FA Cup encounter. Mikel Arteta made six changes to the side that beat Manchester United last weekend while Pep Guardiola only made two.

It was Nathan Ake, one of Guardiola’s changes, who grabbed the winner with a beautifully composed finish past Matt Turner in the second half.

After the game, Kyle Walker was making his way down the tunnel when an Arsenal fan threw a jersey in front of him, without a moment’s hesitation, the former Tottenham player launched the top back into the crowd.

Spurs fan obviously loved his disdain towards the jersey.

Amazing news 🔥Victor Osimhen transfer to Manchester agreement with fees of £105m Osimhen agents ✅

 Manchester United 'considering £105m move for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen'

Manchester United 'considering £105m Osimhen move'

Manchester United are reportedl

y considering a move for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen in the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils signed Wout Weghorst on loan this month in an attempt to consolidate their position in the top four of the Premier League.

However, Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Erik ten Hag's side want to sign Osimhen in the summer as their permanent Cristiano Ronaldo replacement.

"Man United have to pay at least €120m [£105m] for him, but Premier League clubs have that option, so it could well happen. Manchester United certainly want to sign him, but there are other clubs who are planning the same," he told Dutch outlet SoccerNews.

The Italian journalist expects Napoli to let the attacker leave if they win Serie A this season, with the Azzurri currently leading the race for the Scudetto by 12 points.

Napoli's Victor Osimhen celebrates scoring their third goal on October 16, 2022

Read Next:

Man United 'cool interest in Victor Osimhen'

Roy Keane hails Lisandro Martinez for ‘pride’ he showed in defending as stats show how brilliant

the Manchester United man was in Carabao Cup win against Nottingham Forest 

Lisandro Martinez has a fan in Roy Keane, who lauded the defender for his defending in Manchester United’s win over Nottingham Forest

Erik ten Hag’s side travelled to the City Ground on Wednesday night for a potentially tricky clash, but the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg proved to be a comfortable evening for United, who now take 3-0 lead to Old Trafford.

Keane was delighted with the Argentine’s performance on the night and his overall presence in defence since his summer arrival, saying Martinez is the type of player you’d want in the trenches with.

The former United and Forest midfielder told Sky Sports: “He’s got pride in his defending, which is great to see. A lot of the modern defenders know it’s about what they do in possession. He wants to defend, he’s got great pride in it.”

Keane added: “You need that balance, it really is important. Harry Maguire when he’s been playing on the left hand side when he’s right-footed, it’s very difficult.

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“Obviously the manager has worked with him, we talk about that character, that desire. We’ve seen already the benefits of having him at the club over the last few months.

“He wants to defend. He looks the right character, the kind of lad you want to be in the trenches with. We saw it tonight, United were coasting towards the end but he still wanted to defend

Video emerges of Arteta refusing to celebrate Man City goal vs Arsenal during Etihad role

“We talk about the importance of scoring the three goals but from a defender’s point of view, they’ll be delighted with a clean sheet.”

Martinez himself was pleased with United’s performance on the road, with the Red Devils now one step closer to Wembley.

“I’m really happy with the job from the guys,” he told Sky. “We played so good today and we controlled the game. We lost the last game so we had to produce now and as a team we did.

We know [Forest] is doing a really good job but we never gave up. Today we won the game and that’s the most important thing. You can see when we do the right things we don’t concede goals.

“We controlled the game but we still have many things to improve on and we have to keep going. I’m really happy because we showed discipline and I saw [for] the whole game we were pretty focused. We have to play always like this, keep going and keep fighting

Medical this week Man Utd transfer news and rumours: January transfer window 2023

 Who have Man Utd been linked with?

Ryan Gravenberch - Manchester United could turn their attention to Bayern Munich's Ryan Gravenberch as an alternative midifield target to Jude Bellingham (Daily Express, January 21).

Harry Kane - Manchester United are interested in a summer move for Tottenham striker Harry Kane (Daily Mail, January 20).

David Raya - Manchester United and Chelsea have joined the race to sign highly-rated Brentford goalkeeper Raya for around £20m (The Sun, January 19).

Kevin Mbabu - Manchester United have been linked with a surprising and shock move for Fulham flop Mbabu (The Sun, January 19).

Denzel Dumfries - Manchester United are holding transfer talks with Inter Milan over a move for Dumfries, according to reports (The Sun, January 17).

Head Destroyer 🤕🙄 - Fans react to Partey's facial expression while contesting with Haaland for the ball on Friday night

 

Fans react to Partey's facial expression while contesting with Haaland for the ball on Friday night

A second half goal from Nathan Ake was enough to give Manchester City a much needed 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the FA Cup at Etihad Stadium on Friday night and eliminating them from the competition.

However, during the Emirates FA Cup fixture between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Friday night, both Thomas Partey and Erling Haaland were spotted contesting for the ball, when Erling Haaland stretched his leg very high, leaving Thomas Partey mouth widely opened.

This facial expression from Thomas Partey while contesting with Erling Haaland for the ball on Friday night has attracted reactions from football fans and social media users, as some have noticed the look on Partey's face, while some have called him the Eagle man.

Here are some screenshots of reactions from football fans and social media users:

Great News✅ for Manchester United fans Kylian Mbappe spotted with Rio Ferdinand aim move to old Trafford

 Erik ten Hag responds to Man Utd fan asking to sign Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham

Manchester United are keen to add to their squad between now and the end of the month with Red Devils’ supporters demanding moves for Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe from Borussia Dortmund and PSG respectively

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag came up with a hilarious response to Red Devils’ supporters asking for his side to make a move for Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe.

The Red Devils are currently in the midst of their work for the January transfer window with a forward remaining high on their shopping list following the exit of Cristiano Ronaldo. It appears that supporters have lofty ambitions with video footage having emerged.

In a clip uploaded to TikTok, United boss Ten Hag is shown being mobbed by fans in his car as he attempts to leave the club’s Carrington Training Base. One keen supporter then attempted to have a say on the Red Devils’ transfer targets and suggested swoops for two of the most sought-after young talents in world football.

said: “Erik, do you think you’re going to sign Jude Bellingham or Mbappe?,” to which the United boss replied: “I want to but…”

Another fan then interjected by suggesting that the Red Devils should sign both with Ten Hag then producing a typically witty reply. “Do you have some pennies for me?” the Dutchman asked.

United notably do not have a lot of funds in January with which to do their business with football director John Murtough confirming that there were no plans to spend heavily. Speaking last month, he said: ‘January is a difficult time to find players that teams are willing to let go. It’s no secret that we’re looking for a new centre forward.

Who do you think Man Utd should sign this month? Share your thoughts in the comments below

“We’ll see what’s possible in January but we only want to bring in players who are good enough, and who will make the squad stronger. We’re not going to sign players for the sake of making signings.

Another bad signing for Liverpool yes or no? “I’ve watched him” – Chairman suggests he’s got real doubts over £35m Liverpool player, he’s not quick enough

 Liverpool’s new signing Cody Gakpo hasn’t won everyone over since his transfer to Anfield earlier this January.

The Netherlands international looked outstanding during his time at PSV, with a number of top clubs linked with him before he ended up being snapped up by Liverpool.

Still, it’s been a bit of a slow start for Gakpo in English football so far, and Peterborough United chairman and Liverpool fan Darragh MaAnthony has admitted he’s a bit concerned about the 23-year-old’s lack of pace.

“I don’t want to call Gakpo a bad signing so early but I’ve watched him for four games and I’m like hmmm yeah,” said the chairman.

You can’t judge too early. Give him another four or five games, maybe. I’m not sure he’s top, top class. I hope that comes back to bite me. But I don’t think he’s quick enough.”

Gakpo was also wanted by Manchester United before Liverpool swooped in to sign him for around £35million.

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Jurgen Klopp has already sent a £250m message to FSG that can speed up Liverpool rebuild

 This week's Blood Red on Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool rebuild and why he needs backing with a game-changing summer transfer window

Confirmation of the contract came just a day after Liverpool had made a sizable stride forward towards the Champions League final with a 2-0 win over Villarreal in the first leg of their semi-final tie and the news was made public less than a fortnight after securing a place in the FA Cup showpiece courtesy of a memorable performance against Manchester City on a red-hot day at Wembley.

“There is a freshness about us as a club still and this energises me," Klopp said at the time. "For as long as I have been here, our owners have been unbelievably committed and energetic about this club and it is clear that right now this applies to our future as much as I’ve ever known. In Billy Hogan and Julian Ward we have leaders throughout the club who are completely focused on renewal and refreshing so we can continue to compete at the very highest level.

When the owners brought the possibility of renewing to me, I asked myself the question I’ve mused over publicly: 'Do I have the energy and vibe to give of myself again what this amazing place requires from the person in the manager’s office?' I didn’t need too long to answer in truth. The answer was very simple…I’m in love with here and I feel fine!”

The reference to the anthem that had reverberated on the Liverpool terraces throughout the second half of last season was a cute sign-off from Klopp, but nine months to the day since that contract news was broken, the landscape that the manager now surveys has changed significantly.

Leandro Trossard bright vs Man City First start and players rating

 Arsenal player ratings vs Manchester City as Trossard and Turner bright but Holding awful

How the Gunners got on individually in their FA Cup fourth round clash with Manchester City at the Eithad Stadium

Matt Turner: Excellent off his line all night with some really adept sweeping. Some bright interventions to prevent City pressure and looked confident with crosses. Not always the best with the ball, but certainly getting better. 8.

Takehiro Tomiyasu: Nearly managed a rare goal with an early effort, but was generally solid aside from that. Although the goal came from his side there was little he could do to stop it. 6.

Rob Holding: From minute one you could tell he was too focused on the individual battle with and that he had no belief he would ever win it. Son Heung-Min all over again. Arteta will surely have trust issues now throwing him in to big games. 3.

Gabriel: Composed alongside the erratic Holding and tried to ensure his teammates were as progressive in possession as he was. One moment where he was slow to clear a ball allowed Haaland a good chance though. 6.

Kieran Tierney: The kind of performance we've come to expect from Tierney this season. Nothing particularly wrong, but not as good as Zinchenko. A little rushed on the ball at times and not as technically secure. 6

Thomas Partey: Some decent moments on the ball and off it. Standard of what we expect from Partey. His going off at half time will be a massive concern if it's due to an injury though. 6.

Granit Xhaka: Couldn't impact the game going forward much as his role was defensive for much of the game. Did so abley, but Arsenal probably lost the midfield battle overall and he was part of that. 6.

Fabio Vieira: Some promising flashes in the first half in particular, but too anonymous for most of the game to have any chance of troubling the first team. Snatched at a decent chance. 6.

Bukayo Saka: Got frustrated as the night progressed with how his teammates were reluctant to get the ball forward to him quickly. Struggled to impact the game as a result. 6.

Eddie Nketiah: His hold up play is so much better than it used to be. But for a crucial intervention from Laporte he might have had another goal on the night. A little less influential than he would have hoped though. 6.

Leandro Trossard: Arsenal's best player in the first half. Intelligent pressing and direct dribbling that created the Gunners most threatening chances. Faded in the second, but promising early signs. 7

SUBSTITUTES -

William Saliba: Looked so composed as an antidote to the frantic energy of Rob Holding in the first half. Managed to slience Haaland for the most part which is no mean feat. 7.

Albert Sambi Lokonga: Never quite looked in control of the ball when he got a hold of it. Not progressive enough. Defensively a little naive too on occasion. 5.

Gabriel Martinelli: Some real threat down the left, but held on to the ball for too long too often. Offside on too many occasions as well. His directness caused plenty problems though. 7.

Oleksandr Zinchenko: Technically sound and far more comfortable inverting than City. Not quite as influential offensively as he would have hoped though. Probably lucky to get off without a second yellow too. 6.

Martin Odegaard: Came on too late to influence the game. n/a. 

Big Blow for Gunners Thomas Partey: Arsenal midfielder to have MRI scan after FA Cup fourth-round defeat at Manchester City

 Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey was substituted at half-time in the FA Cup fourth-round defeat at Manchester City; Ghanaian to have an MRI scan this weekend; Gunners have had a £60m bid rejected for Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo who has confirmed he wants to leave the club

Image:Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has made 21 appearances in all competitions this season

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey will have an MRI scan this weekend after coming off injured in the FA Cup fourth-round defeat at Manchester City.

Partey was substituted at half-time in Friday night's loss as he was replaced by Albert Sambi Lokonga.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta confirmed the Ghanaian, who has been an influential part of their season, was in "some discomfort

The Independent's Miguel Delaney and the Press Association's Simon Peach discuss Arsenal fan's reaction to the Gunner's 1-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup

Arteta said: "He had some discomfort and it was getting worse and worse.

"He was uncomfortable to continue. (Saturday) or the day after he will have an MRI scan and see what he has

"We have at the moment the injury of Mo (Elneny). It is not possible to get him fit. (Albert) Sambi has come in and has done well.

"It is true Thomas is a big influence and a big personality and in the second half we didn't have him."

MANCHESTER CITY 1-0 ARSENAL LIVE MATCH STREAM

 

Man City 1-0 Arsenal

FULL TIME! Man City are into the FA Cup fifth round thanks to Ake's second-half winner.
For now, the master - Pep Guardiola - still has the edge over his apprentice - Mikel Arteta, but the Arsenal boss will be encouraged by their first-half display that saw Ortega make a couple of smart stops to deny Trossard - who impressed on his first start - and Tomiyasu.

City didn't create a lot but they got the job done and showed Arsenal what they are up against in the Premier League title race.

Man City team news - Ortega starts in goal

GOAL! Man City 1-0 Arsenal (Ake, 64)
City take the lead through Ake!

Alvarez rattles the post from distance. The rebound falls to Grealish who tees up Ake and he guides the ball low into the far corner.
A striker's finish from the defender!

Team to play Arsenal: Ortega; Lewis, Stones, Akanji, Ake; Gundogan, Rodri, De Bruyne; Grealish, Mahrez, Haaland

Subs: Ederson, Walker, Dias, Phillips, Cancelo, Laporte, Alvarez, Silva, Palmer.

Arsenal team news - Trossard makes first start for Gunners

Team to play Man City: Turner, Tomiyasu, Holding, Gabriel, Tierney, Xhaka, Partey, Vieira, Trossard, Saka, Nketiah. 

Subs: Ramsdale, White, Zinchenko, Saliba, Kiwior, Lokonga, Odegaard, Marquinhos, Martinelli. 

Almost Done What would Caicedo bring to Arsenal? Mikel Arteta ready to bring Moises Caicedo to Emirates Stadium £60m bid for Brighton midfielder but offer is rejected

 who say player is not for sale in January; Arsenal considering whether to improve offer; Arsenal remain interested in signing Declan Rice in the summer - whether or not they sign Caicedo

Arsenal have had a £60m bid for Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo rejected.

The south-coast club insist Caicedo is not for sale in this January transfer window, but Arsenal remain interested and are deciding whether to go back in with an improved offer.

The Gunners' bid for Caicedo was a guaranteed £60m fee. The biggest transfer fee Brighton have received in their history is the initial £57m plus add-ons from Chelsea for Marc Cucurella last summer.

Chelsea are also interested in the midfielder - who Brighton bought for £4.5m from Independiente del Valle in Ecuador two years ago - but one source has told Sky Sports News a transfer to the Blues in January seems very unlikely as the clubs are "not in the same ball park" regarding valuations.

Speaking on Friday, Roberto De Zerbi, Brighton's head coach, insisted Caicedo was focused on Brighton and urged the 21-year-old to remain at the Amex Stadium until the summer.

"I think he's a good guy," said De Zerbi. "He's focused only on Brighton. I hope he can stay with us until the end of the season because, in my opinion, it's the best solution for him and us."

Zerbi added: "I can understand the other big teams want our young players - [Alexis] Mac Allister, Caicedo, [Kaoru] Mitoma, [Solly] March - but the decision is for the players and the club.

"I spoke with him [Caicedo] Wednesday and I told him my opinion. I think it's always difficult to change inside the season because you can find more problems. It is important to stay another four months."

Pressed on his conversation with Caicedo, De Zerbi revealed: "I spoke with him like a father, not like a coach.

"I understand when one player has the possibility to change teams and go to a very big team, but my work is to give the style of play and also advice for his career and his life."

Caicedo has two-and-a-half years left on his contract and is unlikely to sign a new one. As a result, Brighton will be doing due diligence on a potential succession plan.

Raheem Sterling was 'open' to Liverpool return as new transfer claims emerge Raheem Sterling left Manchester City to join Chelsea in the summer - but could things have been different?

 Raheem Sterling was open to joining Liverpool ahead of Chelsea last summer but the Reds had no interest in bringing the forward back to Anfield, according to a new report.

The former Manchester City star made the move to West London after falling out of favour under Pep Guardiola at the Etihad as he entered the final 12 months of his deal. Former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel signed the England forward for a fee in the region of £47.5m and made him one of the most prominent signings of the Todd Boehly era.

However, The Athletic claims the 28-year-old forward would have been "open" to moving back to Liverpool, his home of five years prior to his controversial exit in the summer of 2015, but those at Anfield were not interested in exploring such a deal.

READ MORE: Pep Guardiola makes bold Liverpool prediction after 'copying' Jurgen Klopp

READ MORE: Jurgen Klopp has two new Liverpool undroppables as bold midfield move considered

"There was a lot of talk about interest from the Spanish giants or Paris Saint-Germain, but this was never on the cards," claims the report. "He would have been open to a move back to previous club Liverpool, but that was a non-starter, too. Chelsea were his only option."

Find the footballs on Liverpool Echo website to win prizes totalling £3,000

The Jamaican-born forward signed for the Reds in 2010 from Queens Park Rangers and rose to stardom as he progressed through the ranks at the Reds' Kirkby academy before being handed his Premier League debut by Sir Kenny Dalglish in 2012.

And after playing his part in one of the Premier League's most talented forward trios of all time - alongside Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez, who nearly ended the club's 24-year wait for a league title - Sterling left the club just 12 months later.

Considering his tender age at the time, the circumstances surrounding his exit from Liverpool made national headlines as rejected a £100,000 per week contract after slamming Anfield officials for not attempting to renew his terms at an earlier date. That, and advice from former agent Aidy Ward, led to Sterling having a somewhat frosty end to his career with the Reds as he was booed by supporters ahead of the 6-1 defeat to Stoke City in May 2015.

Transfer news LIVE Amazing Defender🔥 agreement with Arsenal: Ibrahima Bamba agents ‘in London’ amid Gunners links✅

 The agents of Vitoria defensive midfielder Ibrahima Bamba are reportedly ‘in London’ amid links with a move to Arsenal.

The Lowdown: Bamba links

Arsenal have recently been linked with a move for Bamba this week, with it claimed that they are ‘on the front line’ to sign him and are ‘tightening the siege’ for his transfer.

However, it is also claimed that he is ‘protected’ by a €30m (£26.5m) release clause, and a contract not set to expire until 2026, so it will be interesting to see whether the Gunners are willing to pay that to bring him to the Emirates Stadium.

The Latest: Agents ‘in London’

Taking to Twitter on Wednesday evening, journalist Jacque Talbot shared that Bamba’s agents are ‘in London’ amid links with a move to North London:

“Told Ibrahima Bamba’s agents are in London amid Arsenal links.”

The Verdict: Midfielder needed

Central midfield is certainly an area that still needs strengthening for Mikel Arteta’s team, given the fact that the Spaniard has recently expressed his concern over the seriousness of Mohamed Elneny’s latest injury, while Thomas Partey has also shown himself to be injury-prone in the past.

They have recently been linked with moves for Brighton and Hove Albion’s Moises Caicedo and Juventus’ Weston McKennie, with the latter’s agents also in London ahead of talks of a potential deal.

However, Bamba could be a signing that goes under-the-radar given he plays for the perhaps lesser-known Vitoria in Portugal, but would still be an excellent addition nonetheless.

The 20-year-old has been a mainstay in the team despite his relatively young age, and ranks in the 99th percentile for clearances, 90th for tackles and 85th for interceptions made per game of all midfielders in Europe’s top leagues over the past year (FBRef).

These are impressive numbers indeed, and so Arteta and Edu should not hesitate if they want to

bring the Italian in.

Arsenal XI vs Manchester City: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup and injury latest for FA Cup today Arsenal team news update ahead of tonight’s trip to Man City

 Arsenal take on Manchester City in the FA Cup tonight with Emile Smith Rowe ruled out of making his return to the starting line-up.

Jakub Kiwior joined the Gunners from Spezia on Monday afternoon, for an initial fee of £17.5million, and he should be in the squad for the match at the Etihad.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is likely to make changes to his team for the clash with City and Leandro Trossard is set to make his full debut.

“I see a player [in Trossard] that is willing to make things happen and who is really composed, especially in the final third,” said Arteta.

“It’s something we needed in the team and straight away he had a beautiful impact in the team to help us to win it.”

Meet the Scot guiding people around the world’s great peaks

Arteta faces a dilemma as to who he starts in goal, with Matt Turner usually given the nod over Aaron Ramsdale in cup games.

Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Turner; Tomiyasu, Holding, Gabriel, Tierney; Vieira, Partey, Xhaka; Saka, Nketiah, Trossard.

Friday 8.00pm GMT, ITV

Venue: The Etihad

Referee: Paul Tierney

Arsenal squad from: Hein, Ramsdale, Turner; Cedric, Gabriel, Holding, Kiwior, Saliba, Tierney, Tomiyasu, White, Zinchenko; Elneny, Lokonga, Odegaard, Partey, Saka, Smith Rowe, Trossard, Vieira, Xhaka; Jesus, Martinelli, Marquinhos, Nelson and Nketiah.

Injured: Elneny (knee), Jesus (knee), Nelson (hamstring)

MORE ABOUTARSENAL TEAM NEWSARSENAL INJURY NEWSARSENAL INJURIESMANCHESTER CITY

LIVE Transfer news and rumours LIVE 🚨: Medical this week Thomas Partey Backup found Arsenal Agreement ✅£75m Deal for Premier League Star

Arsenal preparing £75m bid for Caicedo 

Fichajes, via Ekrem Konur, reports that Arsenal are ready to go big with an offer of around £75 million to try and steal Moises Caicedo away from Brighton before the end of the January transfer window.

With concern over Mikel Arteta's squad depth, the report states they are willing to do anything for him to end up signing with them.

AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TWO CLUB DONE✅ Arsenal 'in contact' with ex-Chelsea star in Sergej Milinkovic-Savic transfer talks

 Arsenal failed to sign Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz at the end of the previous transfer window and it appears boss Mikel Arteta is still after a new central midfielder

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and have opened talks with his agent, Mateja Kezman.

The Serbia international, 27, has been linked with various clubs in recent years, including Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain, and has just 18 months left on his existing deal at Lazio. He is regarded as one of the most impressive central midfielders in Serie A.

It's believed Kezman, who won the Premier League and League Cup during his one-season spell at Chelsea 18 years ago, is working on a transfer plan for his client. Furthermore, Mikel Arteta's side are said to be winning the race for his signature.

As reported by Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, the Gunners and another unnamed Premier League club are in talks with Kezman over a deal to sign Milinkovic-Savic. The midfielder turns 28 next month and knows his next contract could be his last big one.

Milinkovic-Savic is regarded as Kezman's biggest client. He has made more than 300 appearances in all competitions for Lazio since arriving from Genk in the summer of 2015 - winning the Coppa Italia once and the Supercoppa Italiana twice.

Milinkovic-Savic, who was part of the Serbia side that won the Under-20 World Cup in 2015, has also won plenty of individual honours during his time in the Italian capital. He's been named in the Serie A Team of the Year and Lazio's Player of the Season twice apiece.

One of Milinkovic-Savic's greatest achievements in Italy came at the end of the 2018/19 campaign, when he was named as the Best Midfielder in Serie A. He's also won the Serie A Player of the Month award twice, with his most recent nod coming in January 2021.

If Barcelona called me, I will go, it’s my club’ – Pep Guardiola defends Mikel Arteta ahead of today clash with Arsenal

 Former Barcelona manager and iconic captain Pep Guardiola has told the press that he would go back to Barcelona if they were to give him the call – if he was an assistant

In the lead up to Arsenal’s clash with Manchester City, Guardiola spoke to the press and was asked about Arteta’s departure from his own coaching staff. Guardiola told MD that he completely understood Arteta’s decision.

“When Arteta was my assistant at City, he celebrated all the goals madly except the ones against Arsenal. He loved Arsenal. It’s like my relationship with Barça. If I were an assistant coach and Barca called me, I will go, it’s my club.”

That could be good news for Atletico Madrid. Highly-rated Arsenal coach Carlos Cuesta made his first steps into coaching with Los Colchoneros, and perhaps they might be able to give him a ring some day.

Guardiola has a contract at City until 2025, and with Xavi Hernandez at the helm, it seems unlikely he would head back to Barcelona in the near future. It remains unlikely he return as manager at all, unless the Blaugrana were in desperate trouble.

This clown wont come back to barcELona as it would expose him as a fraud – his trophies are solely attributed to messi and everyone knows it.

12 seasons without CL trophy despite coaching a red hot Bayern who destroyed barcELona year before he came with 7-1 aggregate only to lose 1-4 to Real with him and his braindead coaching decisions.

Dont even get me started on his failures with City who practically have unlimited funds. Still no CL title.

Most overrated coach ever. Mourinho won CL with arguably the poorest club in CLs history and this charlatan cant win with richest.

Agreement ✅ Arsenal launch ambitious loan bid for Eduardo Camavinga but Real Madrid unlikely to even contemplate letting midfielder go

 Arsenal have launched an ambitious loan move for Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga

The Gunners have already bolstered their options in the January window, signing Leandro Trossard from Brighton.

But Arsenal are also looking to strengthen their midfield, with manager Mikel Arteta and transfer chief Edu seeing Camavinga as the perfect fit.

However, according to talkSPORT’s transfer expert Alex Crook, the Gunners aren’t likely to get this ‘ambitious’ move over the line.

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He also stated it’s highly unlikely Real Madrid ‘would even contemplate’ letting go of the 20-year-old, as they look to push to win the LaLiga title over rivals Barcelona.

Since signing from Rennes in 2021 for £34.4m on a six-year deal, the Frenchman has played 66 games for Los Blancos, scoring twice and recording three assists.

This season he’s made 26 appearances, starting 11 of those fixtures.

Crook says it’s highly unlikely Camavinga will go to Arsenal on loan

Camavinga was then picked for Didier Deschamps’ France World Cup side for Qatar 2022 and made two appearances, including coming on in the final against Argentina to help force the South Americans into extra time and penalties.

However, despite being unable to earn himself a permanent spot in the LaLiga side’s starting XI, Carlo Ancelotti is clearly keen to keep him involved at the Santiago Bernabeu

BREAKING NEWS opportunity Transfer from Liverpool the star of Juventus star is the replacement of Mohamed Salah

 Liverpool ‘Identify’ Juventus’ Federico Chiesa As Mohamed Salah Replacement

Liverpool are looking at Juventus and Italy winger Federico Chiesa as a potential Mohamed Salah replacement.

As time goes on, players move on. Last year, Liverpool saw one of their most feared front three walk out of the door in Sadio Mane. As much as we hate to think about it, it is only a matter of time before Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah follow suit. 

Firmino’s future with the club is unknown, with reports claiming he may sign a new contract, but nothing is yet set in stone. Salah, on the other hand, has just signed a new lucrative contract and is still seen as a key part of Jurgen Klopp’s plan answers. 

The Egyptian King, however, has very little competition and tends to be overplayed. Currently, the forward is going through a bad patch but the team relies heavily on him, which makes it difficult to drop him. 

With a huge summer coming up in terms of transfers, will Liverpool be thinking about giving their star player some much-needed competition? Well according to sources, they may just do that.

 

Liverpool's next six Premier League fixtures compared to Newcastle, Manchester United and Tottenham Liverpool remain ninth in the Premier League table after Saturday's underwhelming 0-0 draw with Chelsea

 

Liverpool missed the chance to close the gap to Newcastle United yesterday afternoon after playing out a dour goalless draw with Chelsea at Anfield.

In a game lacking any quality at both ends of the pitch, Jurgen Klopp's side were forced to settle for a share of the spoils and are now winless in their last three Premier League outings.

The Reds will know all too well draws are going to prove of little use if they are to finish in the top four come May as the team look to reduce the ten-point gap to the Champions League places in the weeks ahead. An opportunity to reduce this margin went begging yesterday after Newcastle were held to a draw at the home of Crystal Palace.

VERDICT: Chelsea have a problem Jurgen Klopp would love as brutal Liverpool truth emerges

Below is a look ahead at the upcoming fixtures on Liverpool's horizon, followed by a rundown of the schedules of the other sides challenging at the top of the table.

February 4 - Wolves (A) - Liverpool got the better of Wolves at Molineux only last week and will return to the West Midlands in a fortnight, aiming to repeat the performance which booked their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

February 13 - Everton (H) - There was nothing to separate the sides in the first Merseyside derby of 2022/23, but Liverpool will fancy their chances of coming out on top at Anfield.

February 18 - Newcastle (A) - Eddie Howe's men find themselves in Champions League contention and appear to be full of confidence at this moment in time. The Reds remain the only team to have beaten Newcastle in the Premier League this season and will have hopes of completing the double over the Toon Army.

February 25 - Crystal Palace (A) - Once labelled a cursed fixture for Liverpool, Klopp's side have won each of their previous eight outings at Selhurst Park. Crystal Palace have struggled to hit the heights of last season under Patrick Vieira and are languishing in mid-table.

March 4 - Manchester United (H) - A new side under Erik ten Hag, this promises to be the Reds' toughest test against their rivals in years. United find themselves in a strong position to make the top four but have not tasted victory at Anfield since 2015.

March 11 - Bournemouth (A) - Liverpool inflicted a 9-0 defeat on the Cherries when the sides met way back in August, with a repeat of this scoreline seeming unlikely on this occasion. The Reds will still fancy their chances of three points on the South Coast, though.

Here is an overview of the upcoming schedules for the Reds' rivals...

1. Arsenal (47 points) - next six Premier League fixtures

Manchester United (H) - January 22

Everton (A) - February 4

Brentford (H) - February 11

Manchester City (H) - February 15

Aston Villa (A) - February 18

Leicester City (A) - February 25

2. Manchester City (42 points) - next six Premier League fixtures

Wolves (H) - January 22

Tottenham (A) - February 5

Aston Villa (H) - February 12

Arsenal (A) - February 15

Nottingham Forest (A) - February 18

Bournemouth (A) - February 25

3. Newcastle (39 points) - next six Premier League fixtures

West Ham (H) - February 4

Bournemouth (A) - February 11

Liverpool (H) - February 18

Brighton (H) - February 25

Man City (A) - March 4

Wolves (H) - March 11

4. Manchester United (39 points) - next six Premier League fixtures

Arsenal (A) - January 22

Crystal Palace (H) - February 4

Leeds (H) - February 8

Leeds (A) - February 12

Leicester (H) - February 19

Brentford (H) - February 26

5. Tottenham Hotspur (33 points) - next six Premier League fixtures

Fulham (A) - January 23

Manchester City (H) - February 5

Leicester (A) - February

11

West Ham (H) - February 19

Chelsea (H) - February 26

Wolves (A) - March 4

TRANSFER UPDATES🚨 The Lowdown: £100m price tag set Chelsea: Blues unlikely to reach valuation for Moises Caicedo

 The Lowdown: £100m price tag set 

Chelsea are unlikely to meet Brighton and Hove Albion’s ‘valuation’ of Moises Caicedo before the end of the month, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: £100m price tag set

The Premier League playmaker’s contract at The Amex isn’t set to expire until 2025, but with his impressive performances this season having generated interest, the Seagulls are willing to listen to substantial offers

Todd Boehly tabled an opening £55m bid for the 21-year-old but that was swiftly rejected, with the south coast outfit having since placed a £100m price tag on his head in the hope of putting Graham Potter’s side off a deal.

The Ecuadorian also expressed his desire to remain at Brighton in a public interview with the club’s official website on Tuesday stating that he’s focusing on the remainder of the season, seemingly ending transfer speculation.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jones suggested that Chelsea will return to negotiations with a higher proposal in the final week of the window, but insisted that supporters shouldn’t expect anything out of the ordinary to happen.

“There’s a possibility that they will go in with an increased offer for Caicedo this week.

“The problem is that, from what I’m hearing, I still don’t think it’s going to get to a level whereby it meets Brighton’s valuation.

“I think expectations should be a little bit limited here from a Chelsea fan’s point of view.”

Caicedo at Chelsea?

YES

Watch :Nottingham Forest 0 vs 3 Manchester United LIVE highlights and reaction as Fernandes, Weghorst and Rashford score

 Man United defeated Nottingham Forest 3-0 in the semi-final of the League Cup on Wednesday and here is what happened

United play Forest on Wednesday.

Manchester United marked their return to the City Ground with a 3-0 win against Nottingham Forest on Wednesday night.

United were defeated 3-2 against Arsenal at the weekend, but Erik ten Hag insisted that performance has been 'left behind' in preparation for the first leg of the League Cup against Nottingham Forest, who have improved in recent weeks.

Ten Hag's prediction was proven to be true, as United recorded a stylish 3-0 win against Forest in the first leg of the semi-final thanks to goals from Marcus Rashford, Wout Weghorst and Bruno Fernandes, to essentially kill off the tie.

The second leg will be played at Old Trafford on February 1 but a trip to Wembley already seems inevitable for United.

Ten Hag has a huge chance to win a trophy in his first season in charge and to end the club's trophy drought.

A recap of events from the City Ground.

KEY EVENTS

Antony responds to Ten Hag's advice in United win

22:05

United player ratings vs Forest as Rashford and Martinez good

21:54

FULL-TIME!

21:52

GOAL! 3-0 UNITED!

21:48

GOAL! 2-0 UNITED!

20:46

GOAL DISALLOWED

20:26

GOAL! 1-1 FOREST!

20:24

STEVEN RAILSTON

Thank you

Thank you for following our coverage tonight.

22:30STEVEN RAILSTON

Martinez explains what Weghorst has done to impress

Lisandro Martinez has revealed Wout Weghorst has been training well since signing for United.

Weghorst was on loan at Besiktas until the end of this season, but United paid the Turkish club £2.6million, via Burnley, this January to terminate their agreement with the Clarets early, which allowed him to complete the switch to Old Trafford.

The 30-year-old has joined United on a six-month loan deal, which does not include an option to make it permanent, and he's started in every game since his arrival, making the line up against Crystal Palace, Arsenal and Nottingham Forest.

Read what Martinez said here.

(Image: MUTV)

22:05KEY EVENT

Antony responds to Ten Hag's advice in United win

Bruno Fernandes rifled the ball into the corner and had no choice but to savour the moment with the throng of Manchester United supporters in the Bridgford Stand. They were so overjoyed an advertising hoarding collapsed.

Their overzealousness is forgivable. It has been a while since "We're the famous Man United and we're going to Wem-ber-ley" was chanted with such gusto and United are 90 minutes away from scheduling a hotel in London for the final weekend of February.

Fernandes's 89th minute piledriver is as good as a contest-killer ahead of next week's second leg at Old Trafford. United were good and their fans great. Fernand

es was the last to applaud them, handing one his shirt.