The January transfer window is buzzing with rumors, and we’re keeping an eye on the 72 EFL clubs looking to secure some great deals for the 2024 season.
Will Leeds keep their top player despite interest from Newcastle?
Leeds United have lost three of their last six games, leaving them seven points out of the automatic promotion spots. Daniel Farke’s team is still expected to make the play-offs, but several players may be contemplating their future with the situation so precarious. Crysencio Summerville has been outstanding, scoring and assisting 18 times in 24 league appearances, and Newcastle United are reportedly interested in him. However, Leeds Live’s Dom Howson believes the club must not sell Summerville, writing: “Their resolve may be tested in the coming weeks, but Summerville’s continued presence is critical to the club’s chances of promotion.
To cash in on him would send the incorrect message, leaving Farke with a significant attacking issue to solve.”
We agree with Dom – Leeds must keep hold of players like Summerville or risk being perceived as giving up on a top-two finish – and any further drop in form might jeopardize their play-off aspirations.
The truth behind Toney’s amazing Posh clause claims
Ivan Toney could leave Brentford this month, with Arsenal and Chelsea both looking for a new striker. Toney joined Brentford for £10 million in 2020, and there has been speculation that his former side Peterborough United could benefit from a 30% sell-on option – a tidy sum if Toney is worth £70 million or more. Darragh MacAnthony, chairman of Peterborough United, has stated that such a deal is only speculative, adding that “nobody” could make such a deal when selling a player.
Boro are planning an attack on Villa.
Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has stated that he will only sign new players if they truly fit the team’s style, which is prudent in the midst of the January transfer window. Carrick appears to have found someone he likes, as Plymouth Live says Boro are poised to invest £2.5 million for Aston Villa’s Finn Azaz, who is presently on loan at Plymouth Argle. If Boro buys him, his loan will be terminated early.
How Birmingham’s players responded to Rooney’s departure
The search for Wayne Rooney’s replacement as manager of Birmingham City is still ongoing, with a six-person shortlist apparently in the works. The City players reacted with’surprise’ and’relief’ when Rooney’s exit was revealed, according to The Athletic.
With only two wins in 15 games, it’s no surprise City players are relieved Rooney has left – though they will also need to look at themselves; poor form is never solely the fault of the manager.
The Stoke goalie predicament evolves amid cries for new blood.
Stoke City are on the lookout for a new goalkeeper. Following the recall of Mark Travers by Bournemouth in October, the Potters have been connected with Leicester’s backup goalkeeper Daniel Iversen. Travers might return on loan, although loan registration regulations prevent him from playing for anyone other than Stoke City or Bournemouth this season.
