Latest transfer news today: Chelsea leading race for midfielder, Liverpool eye Brentford defender

The 2026-27 campaign is in full swing across major leagues, and the rumour mill is already gathering pace ahead of the January transfer window.

English clubs are already chalking plans for the upcoming window, while there could be players who might look for new home after falling out of favour with their managers.

Football Whispers takes a look at the top stories dominating today's backpages.

Chelsea lead the race for midfielder?

Chelsea are leading the race to sign AFC Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott in the January transfer window.

The Blues had a bid rejected in the region of £60m for Scott during the summer window, but they still retain interest in him.

Chelsea sold Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City on the deadline day, and they are looking to add a top-quality midfielder to fill the void.

According to The Telegraph, Bournemouth are adamant that they player will not be sold in January, while Chelsea are expected to face strong competition from Liverpool.

Liverpool eye move for right-back?

Liverpool ideally need a new left-back, and a central midfielder, but reports suggest they are also checking on a new right-back.

Brentford right‑back Michael Kayode is emerging as an option for the Reds, which comes as a bit of surprise.

Liverpool have Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong, Ronald Araujo and even Dominik Szoboszlai as right-back options, but they are looking to add in that department.

The Reds are likely to face competition from Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United for his signature.

Man Utd still want another midfielder?

Man Utd signed Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba during the summer transfer window to bolster their midfield.

With Kobbie Mainoo also in the mix, Michael Carrick has a wealth of options in midfield areas.

According to reports, the Red Devils have watched Sevilla loanee Youssouf Fofana in action both home and away this season.

Sevilla are unlikely to sign him permanently, which gives Man Utd an edge in the race to land the Frenchman.