Arsenal Target Mendoza as Semenyo Links Intensify: January Transfer Round-Up

Introduction

The winter transfer window is heating up as clubs weigh creative moves and strategic signings. Here’s a clear, locally tailored rundown of the current links linking some of Europe’s biggest clubs with midfielders, forwards, and goalkeepers ahead of January decisions.

Arsenal eye Mendoza – The north London club are monitoring Elche’s 20-year-old midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza, who carries a £17.5 million release clause. The young Spaniard is attracting attention for his ball skills and development potential as Arsenal consider midfield depth for the second half of the season.

Manchester United on defender hunt – United are plotting a summer refresh at the back and remain open to extending the contract of captain Harry Maguire if talks progress well, while exploring options to bolster the centre-back position next season.

Roma eye Zirkzee on loan – AS Roma have shown interest in taking Joshua Zirkzee on loan from Manchester United in January, with the Dutch forward seeking regular minutes to aid his progression.

Semenyo’s price point shifts – Antoine Semenyo’s release clause at Bournemouth is set to dip in January, with a lower floor expected next summer but unlikely to fall under £50 million as clubs monitor the potential deal.

Guardiola weighs Semenyo option – Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is wary of relying heavily on Erling Haaland and could rival Liverpool for Bournemouth’s Semenyo if the right opportunity arises, adding intrigue to the January talks.

January targets at Nottingham Forest – Forest are identifying midfielders, including Brighton’s Jack Hinshelwood, as potential January targets to strengthen the squad depth for the second half of the season.

West Ham’s forward plans – West Ham are keen to offload Niclas Fullkrug in January to reinvest in new attackers, with potential targets emerging as they reshape their forward line for the coming months.

Gimenez draws interest – Sunderland and Brentford are among clubs weighing a move for AC Milan’s Santiago Gimenez, the 24-year-old Mexican striker who has attracted interest from several teams abroad.

Nico Paz buyback from Como – Real Madrid plan to exercise a buyback clause for Nico Paz next summer, as the clause currently isn’t active in January, keeping options open for the 21-year-old midfielder.

Garner and contract attention – English midfielder James Garner remains in the market for a long-term solution as contact comes from several Premier League sides, while his current deal nears its end, keeping a few options on the table.

Maignan contract talks at AC Milan – AC Milan are expected to reopen negotiations with goalkeeper Mike Maignan amid interest from Juventus and top clubs in England, highlighting the ongoing balance between performance and contract security.

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Key takeaways

• Arsenal are pursuing a young midfielder with a notable release clause, signaling a long-term rebuild plan.
• Sememyo’s price will shift in the window, but big-money releases are still a barrier to a quick move.
• Real Madrid’s buyback strategy for Nico Paz shows how big clubs manage young talents’ career paths.
• Forward and defender options remain fluid across the Premier League, with multiple clubs weighing loans and permanent deals.

Expert view – Transfer analyst Alex Reed notes that January chatter often foreshadows strategic bets rather than immediate transfers, with contract timing and clause structures playing decisive roles.

Summary – The market is active, driven by clauses, loan deals, and the timing of contract terms. Clubs are balancing immediate needs with longer-term planning, meaning the coming weeks could reshape squads across Europe.

Key insight: The window remains heavily shaped by contract timing and release clauses, making some moves more likely as clubs prioritize long-term planning. BBC Sport