The winter transfer window is heating up as top European clubs set their sights on potential signings to bolster their squads. Benfica’s sensational left-back Álvaro Carreras is at the center of the latest transfer rumors, with Barcelona and Manchester United reportedly vying for his signature. Meanwhile, Liverpool has emerged as a strong contender in the race for Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies. Here’s a roundup of the key transfer news dominating headlines.
Álvaro Carreras Sparks Interest from Barcelona and Manchester United
Álvaro Carreras, known for his stellar performances for Benfica this season, has become a hot topic in the transfer market. Reports from Sport suggest that Barcelona is exploring a potential swap deal involving Ansu Fati to secure the 25-year-old defender. The Catalan club sees Álvaro Carreras as a vital addition to strengthen their backline.
On the other hand, Manchester United is keen to address their left-back shortage due to Luke Shaw’s prolonged absence. With a €20 million re-signing clause included in Álvaro Carreras’ initial transfer to Benfica, United could activate this option in January, according to Record. Manager Ruben Amorim, familiar with Álvaro Carreras‘ capabilities from his time in Portugal, is believed to be a driving force behind the club’s interest.
Additionally, Girona’s Miguel Gutiérrez is reportedly another left-back under consideration for the Red Devils, according to TEAMtalk.
Liverpool Leads Race for Alphonso Davies
Alphonso Davies’ future at Bayern Munich remains uncertain, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season. The Canadian international is free to negotiate with other clubs in January, and Liverpool has taken the lead in the race for his signature, according to The Athletic.
While Real Madrid and Manchester United were initially frontrunners, Davies’ concerns about United’s inconsistency appear to have shifted his focus toward Liverpool. The Reds are determined to secure the talented left-back as part of their long-term defensive strategy.
Barcelona Eyes Contract Renewal for Iñaki Peña
In other news, Barcelona is pushing to extend goalkeeper Iñaki Peña’s contract beyond its 2026 expiry date. With Marc-André ter Stegen sidelined due to injury, Peña has stepped up as a crucial part of Barcelona’s defense. Both head coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco are eager to retain the 25-year-old’s services, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Real Madrid Linked with Lisandro Martínez
Manchester United’s central defender Lisandro Martínez has attracted interest from Real Madrid. However, TEAMtalk notes that any move would require a substantial transfer fee, given Martínez’s importance to United’s plans under Ruben Amorim.
Napoli’s January Transfer Wishlist
Napoli, locked in a competitive Serie A title race, is exploring reinforcements for the second half of the season. Manager Antonio Conte has identified Lecce defender Patrick Durgu and Juventus’ experienced Danilo as potential targets, according to reports. Udinese’s Jaka Bijol and Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior are also on Conte’s radar.
Other Notable Transfer Rumors
- Tottenham Hotspur faces increasing pressure to retain Richarlison, with Fluminense expressing strong interest in signing the Brazilian striker (Globo).
- Chelsea’s young midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka is attracting attention from several Premier League clubs due to his limited playing time this season (Football Insider).
- Newcastle United is reportedly eyeing Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche, who impressed during a Champions League victory over Barcelona (The i Paper).
- Tottenham may recall Ashley Phillips from his loan at Stoke City to address their defensive injury crisis (The Standard).
- Girona has announced the signing of Ukraine U21 goalkeeper Vladyslav Krapivtsov on a contract until June 2029 (Girona FC).
Stay tuned for more updates as the January transfer window approaches, promising dramatic moves and thrilling developments across the footballing world.