January Transfer Watch: Forest Stand Firm on Elliott Anderson, Palace Target Willock, Chelsea Reopens Talks with Maignan
Nottingham Forest blocks January bids for Elliott Anderson as Crystal Palace considers a Willock move; Chelsea restarts talks with Mike Maignan amid a busy transfer market.
January transfer chatter intensifies as clubs map strategic moves across Europe. This report highlights the latest links involving Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, Chelsea, and other sides as the window opens.
Forest keeps Elliott Anderson amid January links
The 23-year-old England midfielder Elliott Anderson has drawn interest from several clubs, but Nottingham Forest have indicated they will reject offers in January and keep him in the squad for the season ahead. Reports from leading outlets suggest Manchester United are among teams monitoring his situation, aiming to strengthen wing-back or midfield options.
Other notable links
Tottenham Hotspur are reported to be pursuing Samu Aghehowa from Porto, with Arsenal and Chelsea also in the frame for the 21-year-old forward. Crystal Palace are considering a January move for Newcastle United's Joe Willock, while Newcastle reportedly eye AZ Alkmaar talent Kees Smit to bolster their midfield options.
West Ham United lead the race to sign Promise David from Union Saint-Gilloise in January, with Wolves and Leeds United among interested clubs chasing the Canada-born striker, 24.
Chelsea have reopened talks with Mike Maignan's representatives after learning that the Milan keeper does not intend to renew his contract beyond next season; there is growing speculation about potential goalkeeping options and how a new addition could fit into the squad.
Brazilian forward Estevao Willian's agent revealed that the 18-year-old was offered to Barcelona before joining Chelsea, though the Catalan club's financial situation prevented the move at that time.
Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez, 25, has been linked with several clubs, but the club's president says the Argentina international wants to stay in Spain for now.
Former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley has submitted an opening £20m bid for Championship side Sheffield Wednesday, which insiders say falls short of rival offers from other parties.
Conclusion
With the January window approaching, clubs will balance budget constraints with squad needs. While many rumors circulate, actual deals will depend on negotiations, player willingness, and competing bids from other teams.
- Ongoing negotiations and official confirmations are expected in the coming weeks
- Understand the dynamics of January transfers across European football
Key takeaways
- Nottingham Forest plans to keep Elliott Anderson and is likely to rebuff January bids.
- Crystal Palace weighs a Willock move as Newcastle considers options to fund youth acquisitions.
- Chelsea has reopened talks with Maignan's camp and is exploring options to reinforce the goalkeeping department.
- Other notable links include Samu Aghehowa, Promise David, and Julian Alvarez remaining in Europe.
Expert comment
A transfer analyst notes that January moves often hinge on contract terms and player willingness to switch, with market demand shaping early talks. Expect negotiations to accelerate as clubs identify preferred targets.
Summary
The January transfer landscape is shaping up with a mix of high-profile links and strategic decisions. Clubs are weighing immediate needs against long-term planning, and INLIBER will monitor developments at Forest, Palace, Chelsea, and beyond as the window opens.
Key insight: The January window remains fluid, with clubs balancing retention and strategic reshuffles. Source: BBC Sport