The January transfer window is in full swing, with clubs across the Premier League and Europe scrambling to finalise deals before the deadline. Daily Mail Sport brings you the latest developments, including a major defensive move for Manchester City and ongoing negotiations involving Chelsea, Crystal Palace, and Leeds United.
Big-Money Defensive Moves Dominate Headlines
Chelsea's pursuit of Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet remains a central story. The Blues are locked in talks with the French club but are attempting to drive down the asking price. Rennes value the 20-year-old centre-back at a hefty £56 million, while Chelsea's valuation is closer to £45 million. Despite the gap, the player is keen on the move to Stamford Bridge, though he is also admired by Liverpool, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich. Should a deal prove too difficult, Chelsea have other options, including Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi and Como’s Jacobo Ramon.
In a confirmed deal, Marc Guehi has completed his medical and is expected to be officially announced as a Manchester City player on Monday. The Crystal Palace defender's move represents a significant coup for the reigning champions as they bolster their backline.
Striker Sagas: Palace, Forest, and Fulham in the Market
The striker market is particularly active. Crystal Palace are holding firm in their valuation of Jean-Philippe Mateta, demanding around £35 million for the 28-year-old forward. Juventus, who have seen an opening offer of a £1.7 million loan with a £24.5 million obligation to buy rejected, are continuing talks.
Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest have progressed in talks to sign Napoli striker Lorenzo Lucca. The proposed deal involves an £800,000 loan fee with an option to buy for just over £30 million. Meanwhile, Fulham are prepared to increase their offer to around £30 million for PSV Eindhoven's Ricardo Pepi. The Cottagers had a £22 million bid rejected earlier in January, but PSV are holding out for a potential £35 million fee for the US international, who is recovering from arm surgery.
Midfield Manoeuvres and Other Business
Leeds United's search for reinforcements continues, with a striker the next priority. Wolves' Jorgen Strand Larsen remains a possible target, while the club has also discussed a move for Werder Bremen midfielder Romano Schmid.
West Ham United are exploring several options, having enquired about a loan for Venezuelan winger Keiber Lamadrid. They, along with Aston Villa, are also tracking Feyenoord midfielder Quinten Timber, who was omitted from his club's starting lineup amid transfer talks. In outgoing news, Burnley are interested in Hammers midfielder James Ward-Prowse.
Bournemouth are closing in on the signing of Ferencvaros midfielder Alex Toth for £10.4 million plus add-ons, with the 20-year-old due for a medical. The Cherries are also advancing in talks for forward Rayan from Vasco da Gama and Lazio goalkeeper Christos Mandas.
In other developments: Watford are closing in on former Roma midfielder Edoardo Bove; Manchester United's Toby Collyer is set for a loan move to Hull City; and Middlesbrough's attempt to loan Brighton winger Jeremy Sarmiento has hit an impasse.
