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Transfer Rumours: Arsenal close to blockbuster deal after Bellingham request
Cameron Smith
- 4 Jan 2026 11:00 CST
- 7 min read
News
The January transfer window is now in full swing and several high-profile deals are expected to be completed before the end of the month.
Below, FootballTransfers runs through the biggest rumours and gossip from 4 January, including the latest updates on Arsenal and Jude Bellingham.
Jurrien Timber new deal
Arsenal are on the verge of reaching an agreement with Jurrien Timber over a bumper new contract.
That is according to TEAMtalk, who claim that Timber is set to be handed a lucrative new deal that will include a significant pay rise.
A full agreement is almost finalised and an announcement is expected to take place shortly, with the 24-year-old on the verge of becoming the latest Arsenal star to pen fresh terms at the club.
Current ETV
Jurriën Timber
D (R)
Arsenal
Jurriën Timber
D (R)
Arsenal
ETV Range
€61.7M - €75.4M
Jude Bellingham request
Jude Bellingham has asked Real Madrid to complete the signing of Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton, as per Spanish outlet E-Noticies.
It’s reported that Bellingham wants to be deployed in a more attacking role at the Bernabeu next season, in a similar fashion to his debut campaign at the club, and the potential addition of Wharton would enable him to advance into attacking areas on a more frequent basis.
Real Madrid also reportedly believe that Wharton would be a sensible addition, although they will be required to match Crystal Palace’s €80 million asking price in order to finalise a transfer.
Bournemouth make Antoine Semenyo statement
Bournemouth have released an update on the future of Antoine Semenyo, who remains poised to sign for Manchester City in what is expected to be one of the biggest deals of the January transfer window.
Speaking to Sky Sports after Bournemouth lost 3-2 at home to Arsenal, Andoni Iraola said: “Yes, I expect that. The situation hasn’t changed. I expect him to play against Spurs.
"There is a lot of noise around him but this is the situation."
Chelsea prepare Vinicius Jr offer
Chelsea are preparing an opening proposal for Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior, according to a bombshell report in Spain.
Fichajes claim that a €150m offer has been prepared by the Blues, who continue to enquire over a possible deal for the Brazil winger.
It’s reported that Chelsea will submit an initial bid worth €125m, in addition to a further €25m in performance-related add-on clauses, as they look to pounce amid Vini Jr’s current contractual situation at Real Madrid.
Liverpool join Carlos Baleba race
Liverpool are reportedly eager to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba this year, despite his recent dip in form.
Baleba’s form has dipped following his failed summer move to Manchester United and it has been reported that Old Trafford officials have paused their interest in his signature as a result.
Brighton are still expecting to receive fresh enquiries for the 22-year-old this month and TEAMtalk now claim that Liverpool have burst into the race for his signature amid their pursuit of a new central midfielder.
Jahmai Simpson-Pusey set for new loan spell
Celtic defender Jahmai Simpson-Pusey is on the verge of leaving the club after a difficult loan spell from Manchester City.
Several Championship clubs have expressed their interest in landing Simpson-Pusey, while Ligue 1 outfit Strasbourg were also keen to finalise a short-term deal. However, The Sun have revealed that he is on the verge of a move to Bundesliga side FC Koln.
Simpson-Pusey will reportedly fly to Cologne on Sunday to complete his medical and the transfer will be finalised shortly afterwards.
Kees Smit wants to join Real Madrid
Chelsea and Man Utd target Kees Smit is eager to complete a move to Real Madrid this summer.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Smit is unlikely to depart the club in January, but the Dutchman has now said “yes” to joining Real Madrid this summer.
That is according to Spanish publication Defensa Central, who report that Smit is determined to complete a move to Los Blancos if they are able to finalise an agreement with AZ Alkmaar.
Other Transfer Rumours
Chelsea are closely monitoring the form of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali ahead of a possible swoop this summer. (Football Insider)
Tottenham have identified Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis as a key transfer target. (TEAMtalk)
Real Madrid are interested in Stade Rennais duo Jeremy Jacquet and Mohamed Kader Meite. (Defensa Central)
Marcos Senesi could leave Bournemouth this month if a sizable offer is submitted. (Football Insider)
Liam Rosenior has told Chelsea that he is ready to become their new manager. (TEAMtalk)
Real Madrid have lodged a €120m bid for Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, but Arne Slot’s side don’t want to sell the Dutchman. (Fichajes)
Galatasaray have opened talks with Napoli to sign Noa Lang, although he would prefer to remain with the Serie A outfit. (Nicolo Schira)
Man Utd wonderkid Harry Amass is considering leaving Sheffield Wednesday to join fellow Championship side Stoke on loan. (The Sun)
Liverpool are not pursuing a January move for Joel Ordonez, despite reports suggesting an agreement is close to being reached with the Ecuador star. (The Daily Mail)
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