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Fabrizio Romano Transfer News: Maresca SACK latest, Tottenham DEAL, Real Madrid UPDATE
Robin Bairner
- 1 Jan 2026 10:00 GMT
- 5 min read
News
Fresh January transfer developments are emerging across the Premier League and Europe, with growing tension at Chelsea, Manchester City’s long-term planning, major movement around Joao Cancelo, and key Real Madrid contract decisions coming into focus.
Enzo Maresca situation at Chelsea
Tension is building behind the scenes at Stamford Bridge as pressure mounts on Chelsea’s head coach Enzo Maresca.
“Let me start with Enzo Maresca because I am receiving many questions from Chelsea fans and also Manchester City fans,” Romano told his YouTube channel.
“What I can tell you is that real tension is growing between Enzo Maresca and people at Chelsea. This is the reality.
“Enzo Maresca did not attend his post-match press conference after the draw against Bournemouth. Sources said he was unwell, but in general, the feeling around Chelsea is not very good.
“We are in a results business, so results always dictate situations, but I am not here to say there is a countdown or a decision already made.
“I am hearing about a tense situation, not about timing. As of today, the relationship is quite tense and it is one to watch.”
Manchester City stance on Maresca
Manchester City’s position remains unchanged despite recent speculation linking them to Maresca.
“On Manchester City, it is exactly what I told you weeks ago,” Romano added.
“Yes, there is appreciation for Enzo Maresca. But is it a topic for now? No.
“Pep Guardiola is the coach. Pep has not communicated anything about his future.
“There is a possibility Pep could leave at the end of the season, but nothing is decided. Nothing is done.
“Manchester City internally are considering candidates, and Enzo Maresca is highly rated, but that is it at the moment.”
Brennan Johnson Crystal Palace talks
Crystal Palace are pushing to finalise a deal that could unlock January funds for Tottenham.
“Brennan Johnson is set to make a decision on the Crystal Palace proposal,” Romano revealed.
“Palace have an agreement with Tottenham for a £33.5 million transfer fee.
“Brennan Johnson is thinking about the move. Palace are optimistic and hope to complete a medical in the next days.
“There are other clubs interested, including Bournemouth and Everton, but Palace are pushing and feel positive.”
Current ETV
Brennan Johnson
F, M (R)
Tottenham
Brennan Johnson
F, M (R)
Tottenham
ETV Range
€44.5M - €54.4M
Joao Cancelo transfer race
Several clubs are accelerating talks as Joao Cancelo’s January exit from Al-Hilal becomes increasingly likely.
Romano said: “These are crucial and decisive hours for Joao Cancelo.
“Inter are pushing. They want Cancelo as their right-back, and they have already made a decision.
“The player is also aware of Barcelona’s interest. Barcelona had contact with Jorge Mendes in the last 24 hours.
“Barcelona now have to decide from both a technical and financial point of view, including La Liga financial fair play.
“More clubs are calling and monitoring the situation. Joao Cancelo will leave Al-Hilal in January, most likely on loan.”
Current ETV
João Cancelo
D (R)
Al-Hilal
João Cancelo
D (R)
Al-Hilal
ETV Range
€9.7M - €11.8M
Real Madrid plans for David Alaba
A major defensive exit is now expected at the Santiago Bernabeu.
“I can confirm what I have been saying for months,” Romano said.
“David Alaba is expected to leave Real Madrid as a free agent in the summer.
“There are zero negotiations to extend the contract. No talks on financials or technical projects.
“As of today, I would say there is a 98% chance that David Alaba leaves Real Madrid and starts a new chapter.”
Compared
David Alaba
D (C)
Real Madrid
David Alaba
D (C)
Real Madrid
VS
Antonio Rüdiger
D (C)
Real Madrid
Antonio Rüdiger
D (C)
Real Madrid
|
|
ETV |
|
| €1.5M - €2.3M | ETV Range | €10M - €12.2M |
| 33 years old (24 Jun, 1992) | Age | 32 years old (03 Mar, 1993) |
|
Austria
|
Nationality |
Germany
|
Toni Rudiger Saudi interest
Saudi clubs remain attentive as Real Madrid delay key contract decisions.
“From Saudi Arabia, they remain very interested in Toni Rudiger,” according to Romano.
“At the moment, there is no negotiation and no official bid.
“Real Madrid and Rudiger are fully focused on this season. Decisions will be made later, as usual at the club.
“There was a bid in the past that was rejected because Real Madrid wanted to keep Rudiger and Rudiger wanted to stay.
“In 2026, we will see if Real Madrid decide to let him go or offer a new contract.”
Related stories:
Fabrizio Romano Transfer News: €50m Man Utd DEAL, Barcelona SURPRISE, double Saudi BOMB
Man Utd to sign exciting Semenyo alternative in January - Romano
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