Liverpool targets Semenyo, MU competes for Kees Smit, Roma asks for Zirkzee

The transfer market is about to reach its peak and the big names have already made their moves: Liverpool are considering Antoine Semenyo to fill the void left by Mohamed Salah's participation in Africa Cup of Nations; Manchester United are pushing for Kees Smit and Carlos Baleba; Roma are in talks to loan Joshua Zirkzee. In addition, Christian Pulisic will only sign a long-term deal if AC Milan secure a place in the UEFA Champions League, Man City are keeping an eye on Nathaniel Brown, and Real Madrid are ready to listen to offers for Gonzalo Garcia and are in no rush for David Alaba.

Liverpool and the problem of replacing Salah at CAN

Liverpool are considering a move for Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth to help Mohamed Salah leave the club to play for Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. Ghana failed to qualify, so Semenyo could be available throughout December and January, a busy time for fixtures. It is a plan to keep Arne Slot's side in attack.

Roma negotiates to borrow Zirkzee from MU, with a buyout clause

Roma moved forward with a loan deal for Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United in January, with a summer buy clause of €35 million. The Italians' aim is to improve their scoring performance for the rest of the season. If United do not agree, Roma have prepared a backup plan in Tottenham's Mathys Tel, who is considered suitable for a fast and technical style of play.

MU accelerates in midfield: Baleba and Kees Smit 'new Pedri'

Manchester United have prioritised the addition of a midfielder to their ranks following Ruben Amorim's request, with Brighton's Carlos Baleba a standout target due to his physicality and stopping ability. Meanwhile, United's scouting department is keen on Kees Smit and is planning to make a formal offer to AZ Alkmaar. Smit has been compared to Pedri and is attracting interest from Liverpool, Real Madrid, Barca and Newcastle.

Pulisic waits for Milan to secure Champions League spot

Christian Pulisic wants AC Milan to secure a place in next season's UEFA Champions League before agreeing to a new contract. The midfielder hopes the club will maintain its ambition and status in Europe before committing long-term.

Man City tracking defender Nathaniel Brown

Manchester City are keeping an eye on Eintracht Frankfurt left-back Nathaniel Brown, who has just made his Germany debut and is seen as a potential option to add depth to the left flank.

Real Madrid open to selling Gonzalo Garcia, not in a hurry with Alaba

Real Madrid are considering offers of around 20 million euros for Gonzalo Garcia, with interest from Sunderland, Aston Villa and Wolves. On the other hand, the Royal Club has not accelerated the renewal of David Alaba as the defender is still in the process of regaining form after a knee injury in 2023. Real want to assess stability before making a decision.

Nicolas Jackson determined to stay at Bayern Munich

Nicolas Jackson has no intention of leaving Bayern Munich before the end of his loan deal. Despite interest from several other teams, he sees Bayern as a positive competitive environment in which to develop steadily.

Impact and overall picture

In a time of tight fixtures, personnel decisions are all aimed at maintaining performance and squad depth. Liverpool are proactively planning for Salah’s absence; MU is targeting two midfield profiles and a young talent with great potential; Roma is finalizing a center forward to improve its lethality. Meanwhile, Milan, Man City and Real Madrid are laying the foundation for long-term moves, prioritizing financial stability and flexibility for the coming period.