Man Utd consider shock contract decision as Liverpool 'shortlist' three players for January

The festive period is almost upon us, and fixtures will pile up from this point. The Premier League title race is starting to settle down a little, with three clear candidates at this point, including Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City, while Aston Villa are also outsiders despite being above City at this point.

The early season action saw a number of teams enter the title conversation, but the likes of Tottenham have dropped off, while Manchester United and Newcastle United have struggled for consistency so far this term. Then again, the January transfer window could have a big impact on the final standings, and with that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest rumours from the top flight.

Martial to stay?

Anthony Martial has been much-criticised during his time at Manchester United, but he could be set for a new contract. Erik ten Hag was asked about players who are out of contract, and he responded: "Absolutely, those (contracts) are in our mindset, we are discussing things and when we have news we will bring it. Also, we have to make a final decision (on Reguilon) but also there is Spurs who are involved in that (conversation)as well."

Martial has spent time out on loan in recent times, spending part of 2022 with Sevilla, but he has come back into the fray this season. Many have criticised the level of the Frenchman's performances, but he may yet be set for an extended stay at Old Trafford.

Liverpool shortlist

Liverpool are said to have shortlisted three players ahead of the January transfer window. The Reds overhauled their midfield during the summer window, but they are expected to add one more in January as they look to beef up their depth in the middle, while also adding a centre-back amid Joel Matip's injury.

According to Football Insider, Wolfsburg’s Maxence Lacroix, Sporting CP star Goncalo Inacio, and Sao Paolo’s Lucas Beraldo are all of interest to Liverpool, who should have some money to spend.

Neves admission

Former Wolves star Ruben Neves has admitted money was a big factor in his move to Saudi Arabia amid links with a loan move to Newcastle United in January.

"Of course, one of the things is the money, of course, you cannot hide that," he told BBC Sport. "But when we see the project, and I know that a lot of people think we say this just to say it, but it's not true. When they present us the project, it's a very, very big project. I think people have no idea how the country is improving, how the football is improving and how the football can be in a few years. In one year, we did this. So I believe in two or three more years, it will be an amazing league."

Neves has already confirmed he will not join Newcastle in January, keen to stay in Saudi for now, and that's despite Newcastle being able to sign players from other clubs owned by their owners.