Man Utd’s £64m star exit likely as Spurs and Newcastle ready to battle for cut-price defender

The summer window may now just be a memory to reflect on but January is fast approaching, which means fans only have a few months to catch their breaths before the chaos starts again.

The Premier League spent a new record amount on summer signings, with clubs splashing an eye-watering £2.36 billion across the board as players move in and around the division. January windows are known for being somewhat tamer than the scorching summer, but based on how things were left on Deadline Day and the rumours already swirling, we could be in for another mammoth period.

As the Premier League action returns following the international break, let’s take a look at some of the latest transfer links and headlines.

Sancho expected to leave in January

Jadon Sancho’s situation at Manchester United is rapidly deteriorating and the Daily Star has reported that he is expected to leave the club once the January transfer window opens. The winger, who signed for the club for £73 million just two years ago, has locked horns with Erik ten Hag and the two are struggling to set aside their differences.

Sancho was dropped from the United squad against Arsenal and things are now looking bleak regarding his future at Old Trafford. The 23-year-old has three years left of his contract but could well be headed for the door in the new year if an offer comes in.

The 3AM Verdict: There is no doubt over how big of a player Sancho can be for any club, you only have to look at his astonishing numbers while in Germany. But since joining United, he hasn’t been able to shift into those top gears that saw him tally 50 goals and 64 assists in 137 appearances for Dortmund. It doesn’t seem like this situation is going to get any better, so a January move looks the best option for everyone involved.

Brentford willing to battle Liverpool for winger

Brentford are reportedly back on the market and are ready to field another attempt to sign Johan Bakayoko once the January window opens, according to Football Insider. They face fierce competition from other Premier League clubs though, including Liverpool.

The Reds entered the race to bring the winger to Anfield during the summer but restructuring their midfield became their first and only priority following the hefty exodus. Despite interest from Liverpool, Everton and Crystal Palace, Brentford actually came closest to signing Bakayoko after lodging a £34 million offer.

Liverpool will still be looking over their shoulder after narrowly avoiding losing Mohamed Salah during the summer. Al-Ittihad are desperate to sign the Egyptian and it’s likely they will return with another attempt to prise him from Anfield, meaning replacements will need to be considered quite quickly.

The 3AM Verdict: Liverpool’s interest in Bakayoko could have come at the perfect time, providing both the player and PSV are willing to listen to offers. Still just 20 years old, the winger has contributed five assists in eight games this season and racked up nine goals and six assists overall last term. Players of Bakayoko’s calibre almost always end up in the Premier League, so Liverpool really can’t afford to wait around if they want to sign him, especially if they find a Salah-shaped hole in the team next summer.

Spurs, Newcastle and Liverpool eye Kelly

Bournemouth could have their hand forced to sell Lloyd Kelly in January as the end of his contract is rapidly approaching. Football Insider has reported that Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle are in the running for his signature but the race is currently led by Liverpool.

With less than 12 months until Kelly’s deal expires, the Cherries can’t afford to play hard ball with any potential suitors, or they risk losing the centre-back for free in the summer. Amid the plenty of interest in his services, it’s now an exciting saga to keep track on to see who gets the deal over the line.

The 3AM Verdict: Liverpool were looking to bring in a new central defender during the summer but revamping their midfield took all of their attention. Kelly would be a smart signing for Klopp, especially if the club are watching the pennies after dropping more than £140 million on midfielders.

Spurs would also benefit from signing Kelly though. Their centre-back options are limited as it is, but Eric Dier’s contract is also due to run out next June and any new recruits they can get through the door will be hugely beneficial.