Transfer Rumors: Liverpool Eye Olise, Arsenal Monitor Mendoza, and Kane Fuels Barcelona Speculation
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The January transfer window is fast approaching, and clubs across Europe are already strategizing for potential reinforcements. From a “dream” signing for Liverpool to Barcelona’s pursuit of a new striker, here’s the latest on player movements and speculation as of November 26, 2025.
Top Stories
Chelsea are reportedly downplaying concerns surrounding the potential of young signing Estêvão, while in coaching news, the Portland Thorns have parted ways with coach Gale after just one season. Meanwhile, Real Madrid have secured the future of midfielder Caicedo with a new contract extending through 2031.
Premier League Focus: Liverpool & Arsenal Lead the Charge
Liverpool are reportedly viewing Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise as a key target for the future, according to Sky Sports Deutschland reporter Florian Plettenberg. However, a move isn’t imminent. Plettenberg notes that the Premier League champions have not yet made a formal offer for the 23-year-old, and Bayern are currently unwilling to entertain any discussions regarding the France international, who lacks a release clause and appears content in Bavaria. Instead, Liverpool’s immediate focus has shifted to AFC Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo.
Across the pitch, Arsenal are “closely monitoring” Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza, as reported by the Daily Telegraph. The 20-year-old Spain under-21 international has impressed with his performances for the newly-promoted side, attracting attention from multiple clubs. Mendoza’s contract includes a €20 million release clause, but a move is considered more likely next summer than in the January window.
Barcelona’s Striker Search & Chelsea’s Double Swoop
Harry Kane continues to be linked with a move to Barcelona, with BILD reporter Christian Falk revealing “concrete interest” from the Spanish club. Kane, currently enjoying a prolific season with Bayern Munich – having already scored 14 goals in 11 Bundesliga matches – is seen as a potential replacement for the outgoing Robert Lewandowski. However, no formal talks have yet taken place between Barcelona and the player’s representatives.
Chelsea are ambitious in their transfer plans, reportedly exploring a double signing from Porto. According to TEAMtalk, the Blues are considering bids for striker Samu Aghehowa and midfielder Victor Froholdt totaling £133 million. Tottenham Hotspur and Atlético Madrid are also interested, potentially prompting Chelsea to move quickly. Porto, however, are reluctant to part with Aghehowa mid-season, meaning his £21.7 million release clause would likely need to be met. An “irresistible offer” may also be enough to secure Froholdt.
Manchester City Eye Semenyo, Vinícius Júnior Remains in Demand
The future of Antoine Semenyo is generating significant discussion. TalkSPORT suggests that Manchester City could make a move for the Bournemouth winger, with Pep Guardiola reportedly concerned about an over-reliance on Erling Haaland for goals. Semenyo’s £60 million release clause will become active in January, and Guardiola has previously described the 25-year-old as “an extraordinary player.”
Elsewhere, Vinícius Júnior’s potential departure from Real Madrid continues to be a topic of speculation. Football Insider reports that it would likely take around £80 million to secure the winger, with both Liverpool and Manchester United among the interested parties.
Other Notable Rumors
- Robert Lewandowski, currently at Barcelona, has rejected a transfer offer from Fenerbahçe, preferring to remain with the Blaugrana at least until the summer transfer window (Florian Plettenberg).
- Manchester United have enquired about Roma right-back Zeki Çelik, whose contract expires at the end of the season, opening the possibility of a pre-contract agreement (TEAMtalk).
- Weston McKennie’s future at Juventus is uncertain, with no agreement yet reached on a new contract. Several MLS clubs are monitoring the situation (Nicolò Schira).
- Manchester United are considering loan options for Diego León, Sékou Koné, and Ayden Heaven in January (Daily Mail).
- Looking ahead to the summer, Manchester United are prioritizing the signing of a centre-back alongside a potential contract renewal for Harry Maguire (TEAMtalk).
- Roma have rekindled their interest in striker Breel Embolo, despite his recent move to Stade Rennais (L’Equipe).
- Nottingham Forest may revisit their interest in Brighton & Hove Albion’s versatile midfielder Jack Hinshelwood in January (Daily Mail).
- Premier League clubs are showing interest in Hoffenheim winger Bazoumana Toure, with his agent receiving offers up to €35 million (Florian Plettenberg).
- West Ham United and several Bundesliga clubs (excluding Bayern Munich) are interested in VfL Bochum defensive midfielder Cajetan Lenz (Florian Plettenberg).
- Free agent Lorenzo Insigne could join Lazio before Christmas (Calciomercato).
- West Ham United are considering a move for AC Milan striker Santiago Giménez, facing competition from Brentford and Sunderland (TEAMtalk).
- Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa are monitoring the situation of Everton midfielder James Garner, whose contract expires next year (talkSPORT).
- Federico Chiesa is attracting attention from Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Roma as a potential January target (Ekrem Konur).
- Crystal Palace may struggle to retain Jean-Philippe Mateta, with Tottenham Hotspur expressing interest in the striker (Football Insider).
- West Ham United are actively seeking a permanent exit for Niclas Füllkrug in January, with plans to reinvest the funds into new forward signings (Sky Germany).
The transfer market is known for its unpredictable nature, and these rumors represent only a snapshot of the ongoing activity as clubs prepare for the challenges ahead.
