Man United have hit a stumbling block in their plans to sign this major targetplaceholder image
Man United have hit a stumbling block in their plans to sign this major target | Getty Images
A closer look at some of the latest transfer rumours surrounding the Premier League
Manchester United are hoping for a busy year in 2026 to boost the firepower in multiple areas of the team. The midfield is the main focus point right now and Ruben Amorim has set his sights on three exciting Premier League figures.
Elsewhere, Liverpool are trying to plan their upcoming transfer business while juggling the ongoing car crash that is their title-defending season.
Man United hit with £100m blow as January transfer plans scuppered
The Red Devils had reportedly been ‘confident’ of agreeing a £60 million deal with rivals Nottingham Forest for Anderson’s signature in January, but any hopes of that outcome have now hit a roadblock.
According to TEAMtalk insider Dean Jones, the chances of United signing the midfielder for £60 million in the new year have been ‘dismissed’ and a much bigger asking price is now in the frame.
“Any talk that Man Utd could land Anderson for £60 million or anything close to that has been dismissed by my sources, and it is this £100 million figure that is the price target for now,” Jones said.
“There is no reason Forest would let him go for cheap, especially as he’s one of England’s main players for the World Cup, and there are a few clubs that would compete for the signing – that would help raise his fee.”
The 3AM verdict: Forest have started a winning run following their latest 3-0 win over Liverpool but they are far from being in a comfortable position in the Premier League. With relegation still currently a thing to fear, Sean Dyche will not want to see any key players leave the club halfway through what is going to be a difficult season. Particularly given Anderson’s position with England ahead of the World Cup, Forest know they have a highly sought-after star on their hands and if he’s going to leave, they’ll want the best deal possible.
Liverpool enquire about winger’s release clause
The struggles at Liverpool continue following their dismal defeat to Nottingham Forest, marking their sixth loss in their last seven Premier League games.
A number of questions are being raised about the Reds right now, even after spending a record amount of cash over the summer. Despite this, they are looking to splash more money on high profile signings, and Antoine Semenyo remains a key target as they start to seriously consider a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano provided an update on Liverpool’s pursuit of the Bournemouth winger, whose £65 million release clause can be activated in January.
“What I wanted to add to you guys is that I told you my information is that Liverpool are very interested in this case, in this situation, and they are,” Romano said.
“Because my understanding is that Liverpool already took some information on the structure of his clause, as I told you, £60 million plus £5 million in add-ons, but Liverpool also wanted to be informed on, for example, the structure in terms of payment of the release clause. So, Liverpool are attentive. Then there is interest also from Manchester City.”
The 3AM verdict: There’s no doubt Semenyo will eventually be tempted by some of the teams showing interest in him. Pep Guardiola has already lauded him asan ‘extraordinary’ player this season, while Liverpool remain heavily linked. Salah has been far from his best this term and with no reliable back-up on the roster, they must act fast to sign someone who is capable of matching an in-form Egyptian. It will be surprising at this stage if Liverpool don’t submit a bid but could their miserable run of form stand against them?
Continue Reading