Liverpool to miss out on major target, Arsenal attacker exit 'can't be ruled out', Villa eye ex-Chelsea man

With just days left until the New Year countdown, it's almost time to bid farewell to 2023 and look ahead to what 2024 will bring. That, of course, includes the thrill of the January transfer window.

Business will commence on New Year's Day and clubs will have their chance to bolster their teams for the second half of the season. The competition in the Premier League is heating up for the title, top four, and survival but there's still a long way to go before the writing is on the wall.

As we approach the end of the year, let's dive into some of the latest whispers on the transfer rumour mill.

Liverpool to miss out on key target

Liverpool are still interested in signing new midfielders even after their summer haul and one of their priorities for January was to bring in another option to play in the No.6 role. One of, if not the most prominent name on the radar was Fluminense's André Trindade but now the Reds look set to miss out on their man.

According to Football Insider, Jurgen Klopp's side 'are set to end their interest' in André despite their ongoing interest as he nears a deal with Fulham instead. The Reds reportedly had multiple bids rejected during the summer as Fluminense were not willing to let him leave before competing in the Copa Libertadores final.

The 3AM Verdict: This missed opportunity is similar to the summer collapse between Liverpool and Roméo Lavia. The Reds have spent months chasing André and now a rival Premier League club look set to beat them to the punch. Liverpool aren't in desperate need for more midfielders but with Wataru Endō still settling in and Alexis Mac Allister playing out of position, another natural No.6 would have allowed the Reds to breathe a little easier next year but it seems it's back to the drawing board.

Arsenal January exit 'can't be ruled out'

Another report from Football Insider claims that Arsenal have been preparing to part ways with Eddie Nketiah next year but his potential sale could be moved forward. He is expected to stay at the Emirates until the end of the season but this new update says a January exit 'can't be ruled out' as the Gunners look to raise funds for their own winter spending.

The 3AM Verdict: It will be an emotional period for Nketiah, who has spent his entire senior career with Arsenal apart from a loan spell with Leeds. The striker has been in fine form this season with five goals and three assists in the Premier League, but with Gabriel Jesus now back fit and firing, Nketiah is playing second string and deserves a more prominent role. With his pedigree, he would make a fine first choice for another club, plus Arsenal could bring in a handsome amount through a sale, which benefits all.

Aston Villa eye former Chelsea man

Aston Villa are on the look out for new options in attack, specifically someone to deputise Ollie Watkins and Football Insider again have reported that a name familiar with the Premier League is on the radar.

The man in question is Timo Werner and Unai Emery and co are said to be considering bringing him to Villa Park on loan in January. The club apparently want to splash out on a permanent deal at the end of the season, but a short-term quick fix is suitable for a winter addition.

The 3AM Verdict: Werner struggled to establish himself in England when he joined Chelsea but the German international is a natural goalscorer. Last season, he tallied 16 goals and six assists in his first term back with RB Leipzig, and prior to his move to Stamford Bridge, Werner contributed an astonishing 34 goals and 13 assists in 35 appearances. He certainly has the firepower in him, could he unleash it with Villa?