A swirl of winter-window whispers turned into a cacophony today as scouts, super-agents and sporting directors continued to reshuffle Europe’s transfer deck. At the centre of the drama: Borussia Dortmund’s rising star Karim Adeyemi, who reportedly prefers Arsenal over Manchester United, and veteran marksman Robert Lewandowski, who has emerged as AC Milan’s summer target. Here’s the freshest, most bite-sized dispatch from the rumour mill.
Headline movers
Adeyemi to Arsenal? Borussia Dortmund’s electric 23-year-old forward is said to see Arsenal as his ideal Premier League destination, despite interest from Manchester United and other suitors. Under contract until 2027, Adeyemi’s pace and directness are thought to suit the Gunners’ front line and their high-octane style.
Lewandowski to Milan on the radar AC Milan are reportedly plotting a free-agent swoop for Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski when his contract expires, believing the 37-year-old can inject a ruthless winner’s mentality into Stefano Pioli’s squad and complement their seasoned leaders.
Big trackers and potential bids
Nathaniel Brown of Eintracht Frankfurt is attracting heavy Premier League tracking, with Arsenal, City, United and Newcastle all monitoring the left-back’s situation. His long-term deal includes a release mechanism estimated at up to €55m.
Joshua Zirkzee could be off to Roma in January as the Italian side hunt firepower for a title charge; Everton and West Ham are also said to be circling.
Juventus and Granit Xhaka: The Serie A giants reportedly view Sunderland’s midfield general as a January target to add leadership and battle-hardened experience.
Chatter around the edges
Napoli remain keen on Kobbie Mainoo, though Manchester United may only sanction a loan.
Chelsea and Juventus are said to be lining up for AC Milan keeper Mike Maignan as his contract runs down.
Jadon Sancho, currently on loan at Aston Villa, has been the subject of discussions with Turkish heavyweights.
Teenage talents drawing attention include AIK’s Kevin Filling, with Dortmund and United both interested.
Clubs from Barcelona to Brighton and Bournemouth are actively scouting wide options and midfield prospects across South America and Scandinavia.
Who could move in January
AC Milan may seek another striker if Santiago Giménez and Christopher Nkunku don’t fire; West Ham’s Niclas Füllkrug is on the shortlist.
Bournemouth have eyes on Nordsjaelland’s Caleb Yirenkyi; Arsenal have also been linked.
Emiliano Martínez could be permitted to leave Aston Villa, with the club exploring replacements.
Leeds are open to offers for Willy Gnonto if they can bankroll reinforcements.
Verdict and what to watch
This transfer window feels like a chessboard where clubs are protecting lines and quietly setting traps.
Adeyemi’s preference for Arsenal could be the market-mover if Dortmund decide to sell, while Milan’s overture for Lewandowski signals they’re still hungry for iconic signings to sharpen a title-ready squad.
Keep an eye on release clauses, loan permutations and the steady flow of agents through January — the next few weeks could see a flurry of pragmatic deals rather than headline-grabbing splashes.
