Reports from The Sun have revealed that both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Real Sociedad winger Ander Barrenetxea in the upcoming transfer window. Scouts from both clubs have been closely monitoring the 22-year-old player since November, with a particular focus on his performances in December. However, his ankle injury stalled any potential negotiations for three weeks during that period.
Barrenetxea recently made his return to action, impressing both Arsenal and Tottenham scouts during the Basque Derby against Real Betis, where he played for over an hour in a 0-0 draw. Arsenal highly rates Barrenetxea as a valuable addition to their squad, providing competition for Gabriel Martinelli and other wingers at the club. It’s worth noting that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta previously played at Real Sociedad and still maintains a positive relationship with the club.
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou sees similarities between Barrenetxea and Jota from his time at Celtic and is eager to bolster his injury-hit front line. Postecoglou has given the green light to pursue a deal, and both clubs appreciate Barrenetxea’s ability to play on either wing or centrally. The young Spaniard has showcased his talent in 22 matches across various competitions this season, scoring four goals and assisting two others.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona is showing interest in signing attacking midfielder Jesse Lingard. The 31-year-old has been a free agent since his Nottingham Forest contract expired in the summer. While Barcelona previously pursued Lingard, they ultimately signed Ferran Torres instead. However, Lingard still aspires to play at the highest level of European football, and a move to Barcelona could provide that opportunity. Alternatively, he is also considering a potential move to MLS.
Newcastle United has expressed interest in signing Joshua Kimmich from Bayern Munich. However, Christian Falk reports that the midfielder is not keen on a winter transfer. Kimmich’s future remains open for negotiation in the summer, as his contract with Bayern is set to expire in 2025. Bayern Munich is willing to engage in discussions with interested clubs at that time.
Battle Between Bayern Munich and Manchester United for Jean-Clair Todibo
Bayern Munich is eager to secure the signing of Nice center-back Jean-Clair Todibo, potentially outbidding Manchester United for his services. According to FootballTransfers, several prestigious European clubs have shown interest in the 24-year-old player. Bayern is also considering a move for Lens’ Kevin Danso, who is highly regarded by Paris Saint-Germain. However, Danso’s price tag could be a deterrent for Les Parisiens during the January transfer window.
Tottenham Hotspur has set its sights on acquiring Borussia Monchengladbach center-back Ko Itakura. Reporter Florian Plettenberg reveals that Itakura’s release clause in the summer will range from €10 million to €15 million. While the German club hopes to extend his contract, Itakura is open to considering an offer from Sassuolo worth €6 million plus additional incentives.
The winter transfer window promises to be an exciting time for European clubs. Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are both eyeing Real Sociedad’s Ander Barrenetxea, while Barcelona is showing interest in Jesse Lingard. Newcastle United has ambitious plans to sign Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich, while Bayern themselves are battling Manchester United for the signature of Jean-Clair Todibo. Lastly, Tottenham is pursuing Ko Itakura from Borussia Monchengladbach. Only time will tell which of these transfer rumors will materialize into done deals.