Liverpool Scout Kees Smit as Spurs Pursue Arthur Dias
The January window is edging closer and the big hitters are already moving their pieces.
Liverpool had scouts in place this week to run the rule over highly rated Netherlands midfielder Kees Smit as AZ Alkmaar faced Sunderland in the Europa League. The 20-year-old, valued at around £51.5m, is drawing a crowd: Chelsea, Tottenham, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa are all keeping a close eye on his progress, according to Teamtalk.
Manchester United are also plotting their next defensive move. They are monitoring Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, 24, with the England international firmly on their radar, report Football Insider.
Spurs, though, are pushing hardest in the market for emerging defensive talent. They are leading the race for 19-year-old Brazil defender Arthur Dias of Athletico Paranaense, who is valued at 30m euros. Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest and Brentford are also tracking the teenager, but Tottenham currently hold the advantage, say Teamtalk.
Monaco's Forward Changes
In Ligue 1, Monaco are preparing for change up front. The club have confirmed plans to sell United States striker Folarin Balogun in January after the 25-year-old performed a late U-turn on a deadline-day move to Everton, report the Standard. His departure would open up a significant attacking vacancy in the Principality.
Balogun may not be the only Monaco player on the move. The club have admitted a deal for 22-year-old midfielder Lamine Camara is possible in January. The Senegal international has attracted interest from Liverpool and Chelsea, according to the Standard, and could become one of the window’s most contested midfield targets.
Chelsea's Defensive Situation
At Chelsea, the focus is not only on arrivals. Several European clubs are watching the situation of 20-year-old English defender Josh Acheampong, report AS, with his pathway and minutes at Stamford Bridge under scrutiny from potential suitors.
Real Madrid's Midfield Rebuild
Across Europe, Real Madrid are preparing their next midfield rebuild. The Spanish giants are ready to go all out for 17-year-old Morocco prospect Abdellah Ouazane, currently at Ajax, according to Fichajes.
Newcastle United, meanwhile, are set to revive their interest in Djurgarden midfielder Bo Hegland. The 22-year-old Norwegian turned down a move in the summer, but Football Insider report that Newcastle are ready to return to the table.
Interest in Luca Weinhandl
Arsenal, Brighton and Aston Villa are all circling Sturm Graz talent Luca Weinhandl. The 17-year-old Austrian midfielder is valued at around £20m and has quickly become one of the most-watched teenagers in Europe, say Teamtalk.
Tottenham’s recruitment drive may not stop with Arthur Dias. They are considering a move for free agent Mauro Icardi after the Argentine striker’s departure from Galatasaray. Spurs would not be able to register the 33-year-old until January, report the Express, but his name is firmly in the frame as they weigh up extra firepower.
Manchester City and Liverpool's Interest
At the top end of the market, Manchester City and Liverpool are both keen on Germany midfielder Felix Nmecha. The 25-year-old has impressed at Borussia Dortmund, who are expected to demand 80-90m euros, according to Fussball News.
If those numbers hold, the battle for Nmecha could set the tone for a ferocious winter window.
