Transfer News LIVE: Man Utd Fear Bruno Fernandes Exit, Liverpool Talks, Spurs Medical

Tottenham Hotspur are dominating January transfer headlines with two major incoming deals. Conor Gallagher has completed his medical and is set to join from Atletico Madrid in a £34-35m permanent move, hijacking Aston Villa's agreement and providing immediate midfield reinforcement amid Rodrigo Bentancur's hamstring surgery.[1][2][3][4] The 25-year-old England international, hailed as a 'leader', will walk straight into Thomas Frank's starting lineup for the upcoming West Ham derby.[1][3]

Brazilian left-back Souza from Santos is the next arrival, with a £13-14m deal finalized. He is expected to undergo his medical in London today, offering competition for Destiny Udogie.[1][2][4] Spurs aren't stopping there; they seek a 'midfield connector' – a deep-lying playmaker – in 2026, with Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton emerging as their 'dream' target.[1][2][8] Tottenham have made discreet enquiries and are assessing viability, ready to spare no expense on fees and wages, potentially alarming Manchester United who also covet Wharton alongside Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson.[1][5]

Manchester United face turmoil under the incoming Michael Carrick era. Fears mount over captain Bruno Fernandes' exit, driven by his trophy ambitions amid interest from Bayern Munich and Saudi clubs.[5] Targets include Baleba, Marcos Llorente, and Anderson, but Ruben Amorim has downplayed January activity, citing no conversations despite midfield needs.[5][6] United rejected Chelsea's Lavia-inclusive Garnacho swap over fitness concerns.[6]

Other snippets: Tottenham rejected Roma's bid for Radu Dragusin and eyed Mathys Tel's loan exit, while no first-team loans are outgoing. Liverpool talks remain vague amid broader window buzz.[3][4] Spurs' aggressive spending signals ambition, grading Gallagher as a high-athleticism boost but highlighting ongoing need for creativity.[7]

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