Latest transfer news today: Liverpool eye £70m Van Dijk successor as Man Utd scout 23-goal forward

Despite the window having closed only a week ago, Premier League clubs are already surfacing in early January discussions.

Several top‑flight sides ended the summer short in key areas, making winter business feel increasingly inevitable.

So with that in mind, Football Whispers delves into the top headlines making waves today.

Liverpool monitoring Malick Thiaw

Liverpool have joined rivals Manchester United in tracking Newcastle United centre-back Malick Thiaw’s performances this season.

Reports suggest both clubs are monitoring the 25-year-old defender despite no formal talks taking place, while the Reds view him as a potential successor to Virgil van Dijk.

With the Dutch skipper entering the latter stages of his career, manager Andoni Iraola is expected to begin a search for a future starter, with United also eyeing a major upgrade to their backline.

However, the Magpies have no intention of selling Thiaw, who is contracted until 2029 and would command around £70 million.

Man Utd scout Nicolo Tresoldi

Manchester United also sent representatives to Belgium to watch Club Brugge striker Nicolo Tresoldi this week, with the German U21 forward continuing to attract major interest across Europe.

The 22-year-old scored from the penalty spot against Aston Villa and remains a key target for the Red Devils, and according to reports, they also used the trip to gather further information on left‑back Joaquin Seys.

Tottenham Hotspur were also in attendance as Roberto De Zerbi considers more depth in attack ahead of the January window, with Richarlison due to depart.

United, meanwhile, want a long-term upgrade for Joshua Zirkzee with Tresoldi rising up their shortlist after a 23-goal campaign, though his continued form is likely to intensify interest from across Europe.

Aston Villa target Pierre Kalulu

Aston Villa are monitoring Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, with the Frenchman emerging as a key target after establishing himself as a dominant right‑back under Luciano Spalletti.

Kalulu has started all three of Juve’s Serie A games and is viewed as an ideal fit for Villa, offering versatility across the back line and valuable Champions League experience.

The Old Lady are aware of growing interest and have scheduled renewal talks with his entourage, with Kalulu keen to stay in Turin long‑term despite uncertainty over his future, per reports in Italy.

Spurs and Newcastle are also tracking the situation, but Juve are expected to demand a significant fee for the 2029‑contracted defender if Premier League pressure intensifies.