Ex-Liverpool star suggests imminent Alexander-Arnold exit as Arsenal could be priced out of Saka replacement

After the first day of the January transfer window, we have already been spoilt with multiple transfer rumours and bombshell updates to follow. The latter part of 2024 has set the Premier League up perfectly for what promises to be an intense winter window.

Following the jam-packed festive period, the league table has shuffled itself into an order few would have predicted at the start of the season. Manchester United continue to struggle despite a new manager, Nottingham Forest’s splendid run of form ticks on, and Liverpool look strong at the top of the standings in Arne Slot’s debut season.

As the January window unfolds, let’s take a look at some of the biggest headlines we’ve seen inside the first 24 hours.

Michael Owen makes bold Liverpool claim

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future at Liverpool is the talk of the window so far. Before the new year had even rolled in, Real Madrid made an official approach to sign the right-back they have been courting for months now.

The Reds rejected Madrid’s attempt but that definitely won’t be the last we hear of the Alexander-Arnold exit links. With his contract due to run out at the end of the season, Michael Owen believes the writing is on the wall regarding the right-back’s future.

“The very fact that Real Madrid have now made their intentions clear towards signing Trent Alexander-Arnold leads me to believe that it’s only a matter of time before he signs for them,” the former Liverpool and Man United forward wrote on social media. “If he was going to sign a contract extension, Madrid wouldn’t have officially made their move. Secretive talks will have taken place. Huge news.”

The 3AM Verdict: It was only days ago that Alexander-Arnold sparked discussion over what his celebration against West Ham meant, with many believing it was him referencing the chatter around his contract. Slot also referred to the cryptic celebration when asked about his vice-captain’s position, leading some fans to believe a new deal is on the way. However, the Real Madrid approach has rocked the boat again and Owen’s comments have only fanned the flames. The 25-year-old may well be on his way out of Anfield, but the bold statement regarding ‘secretive talks’ delivered in such a matter-of-fact manner is utterly unhelpful and unwanted.

Arsenal could be priced out of Bukayo Saka replacement

Arsenal are planning to utilise the January window to sign a replacement for Bukayo Saka, who is expected to be on the sidelines for several weeks with a hamstring injury. Thanks to his impressive form with Brentford so far this season, Bryan Mbeumo has been shortlisted by a number of rival clubs, including the Gunners.

The Cameroon international has 11 goals so far this season, including one against Arsenal in their New Year’s Day meeting. Multiple clubs are eager to make him their own but Brentford are not letting that happen easily.

According to GiveMeSport, the Bees could price Arsenal and others out of a January move for Mbeumo, as they are ‘desperate’ to ensure he remains on their books at least until the end of the season. Brentford have ‘increased their demands’ for the 25-year-old closer towards the £50 million mark, as they feel allowing him to leave this month could have a huge negative impact on the rest of their season.

The 3AM Verdict: Few clubs will welcome the idea of letting star players leave at the halfway point. After their latest defeat to Arsenal, Brentford are 12th in the table but still in very good stead to finish inside the top half. Mbeumo is key to this Bees side and having already sold Ivan Toney, it’s hard to imagine any major deals going against them in January. The Saka injury blow is huge to Mikel Arteta and co but their options are limited at such a tricky time to do business, especially with Premier League rivals.