The Independent

Tottenham captain Cristian Romero has said it was “disgraceful” that the club only had “11 players available” for this weekend’s visit of Manchester City in an apparent dig at the Spurs hierarchy.

Romero was replaced at half-time of the clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium due to illness, with his side at that point completely lifeless and without much hope of turning around a two-goal deficit.

That they managed to do after the restart with Dominic Solanke’s double - which included a scorpion kick - salvaging a point for Thomas Frank’s struggling side.

Romero has nevertheless taken to social media to seemingly voice his displeasure with the state of affairs at Tottenham, something he has done previously this season.

“Great effort from all my teammates yesterday, they were incredible,” Romero wrote on Instagram. “I wanted to be available to help them even though I wasn’t feeling well, especially since we only had 11 players available — unbelievable but true and disgraceful.

“We’ll keep showing up and taking responsibility to turn this around, working hard and staying together. All that’s left is to thank all of you for being there and for always supporting us, the fans.”

It comes less than a month after the Argentinian took aim at key figures at Tottenham after the club’s 3-2 defeat at Bournemouth.

The World Cup winner questioned why “other people” at the club are not speaking, but claimed that “has been happening for several years”, adding that they have “only show up when things are going well, to tell a few lies”.

He later deleted the post and re-uploaded it without the line about “lies”.

Romero also previously pointed out “the many obstacles that always existed and always will exist” when he paid tribute to sacked Ange Postecoglou in June.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has voiced strong criticism of refereeing standards, asserting that officials "have to be neutral" following a contentious decision during Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Tottenham.

The Spanish international specifically targeted the allowance of Spurs’ first goal, which he believes was a clear foul.

City had initially established a commanding two-goal lead in the first half through strikes from Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo, positioning themselves to narrow the gap on Premier League leaders Arsenal to four points.

However, Tottenham mounted a spirited comeback, with Dominic Solanke credited for both of their goals, including a spectacular backheel in the 70th minute.

It was Solanke’s initial goal, scored eight minutes into the second period, that ignited fury from both Rodri and manager Pep Guardiola.

The incident saw Tottenham forward Solanke appear to kick through the back of Marc Guehi’s leg to score.

Despite a VAR review, the decision stood, with officials deeming no foul had been committed.

This latest incident follows a series of VAR decisions that have gone against City in recent matches, including fixtures against Newcastle, Manchester United, and Wolves, leading Rodri to question the fairness of officiating.

Speaking to Australian broadcaster Stan Sport, Rodri stated: "I know we won too much and the people don’t want us to win but the referee has to be neutral and for me honestly, it’s not fair. It’s not fair because we work so hard in these situations and now to make these decisions, we have to move on."

He continued, expressing his frustration: "Of course you need to come back but at the end, when everything is finished, we are frustrated because it’s so clear the foul. He kicked the leg and of course with the push of the action on the ball, the ball goes in.

“We have to pay attention to these little things otherwise it’s going to be difficult for everyone because this league is like this – it’s about small details and everything counts, so I think today is a very tough day for us in this sense."

The midfielder also recalled other recent decisions, including a disallowed goal by VAR in their 2-0 Carabao Cup victory over Newcastle, and Diogo Dalot avoiding a red card during City’s Manchester derby loss.

Last weekend, referee Farai Hallam had declined to award City a penalty against Wolves, despite being advised to review the incident on the pitchside monitor.

Reflecting further after seeing replays, Rodri added: "I don’t know how to feel. Now I see the images. On the pitch you don’t see. It’s a clear foul in the first action of the goal. It’s a clear foul and VAR is (there) for a reason.

“These small details make the difference. We’re trying to do our best, it’s the first goal they scored and maybe if they don’t score the goal, we win the game."

He concluded with a rare public critique of officials: "It’s one game and another game and it’s not possible. And honestly I never speak about referees, I respect their job massively, but they have to pay attention to these things.

“He’s kicked the leg. It’s so clear, it’s so clear. He anticipated the leg of Marc and it’s a clear foul, but it’s not today, it’s two or three games in a row and I don’t know why, honestly."

A statement from the Premier League Match Centre on Sunday clarified the decision: "The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the challenge by Solanke on Guehi deemed not to be a foul as Solanke played the ball. The goal accreditation panel has adjudged the goal to be a Solanke goal."

Pep Guardiola was visibly irate with the referee’s decision not to overturn Tottenham’s first goal for a foul on Marc Guehi as Manchester City surrendered a two-goal lead to drop valuable points in north London.

City were cruising at half-time with Spurs’ spirit badly bruised, leading thanks to goals from Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo.

After the break, however, the hosts found a way back into the game out of almost nothing, with Dominic Solanke forcing the ball over the line in the 53rd minute to half the deficit.

The goal was not without contention, with Solanke appearing to kick through the back of Guehi’s leg to score, but VAR did not intervene.

When asked by Sky Sports what he thought of the officiating, Guardiola was reluctant to answer and instead questioned the interviewer on whether he thought it was a foul.

"Once again... Have you seen it? Nothing,” he said, before appearing on the verge of walking out of the interview.

“It's happened once again. What can I say? Marc has the ball, he's been kicked from behind, and it's a goal. Nothing. One more."

Speaking to BBC Sport, Guardiola added: "Well, if you do it to a striker it would be a penalty. I'm not a referee.

"Fascinating in the Premier League."

The Premier League Match Centre explained the decision by deeming that Solanke had played the ball, accrediting the goal to the Spurs striker rather than ruling as a Guehi own goal.

The goal sparked a comeback from Spurs that saw them hold City to an unlikely draw, with Guardiola’s failing to keep pace with Premier League leaders Arsenal in the title race.

The Cityzens now sit six points adrift of the Gunners, but Guardiola is insistent that this is not the decisive blow in their season.

He said: "We are playing in a high, high level. Of course we don't have the consistency to win the games. But 14 games, a lot of points to play for. Onto the next one."

A rip-roaring second-half from Tottenham saw them fight back from two goals down to claim a 2-2 draw at home to Manchester City and boost fierce rivals Arsenal’s title bid.

City looked set to cruise to another victory after first-half goals from Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo put Pep Guardiola’s men in control.

Spurs had been booed off at half-time, but a controversial 53rd-minute own-goal by Marc Guehi gave Thomas Frank’s misfiring team a lifeline before Dominic Solanke’s sensational back heel levelled the scores after 73 minutes.

There was still time for either team to find a winner, but the spoils were shared and Manchester City are now six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.

It was a timely comeback for under-fire Frank, who has struggled to win over the Spurs fanbase and although this made it only two wins in 15 league fixtures, it prevented another defeat at home.

Arsenal’s 4-0 win at Leeds on Saturday increased the pressure on City, but they faced a depleted Tottenham with 11 players absent, including central defender Micky van de Ven.

It meant Radu Dragusin was handed a first start in 12 months following his recovery from a serious knee injury and within 11 minutes the home side were behind.

Not long after Semenyo had tested Guglielmo Vicario, City won the ball back from Yves Bissouma and within seconds Erling Haaland had released Cherki, who worked a yard of space on Dragusin and rifled into the bottom corner.

It was too simple from a Spurs point of view, but the dream start for Guardiola’s men and they could have made it 2-0 seven minutes later only for Haaland to lob the ball over the crossbar.

Home fans were already restless when Cherki’s twinkle-toes got him into the area and past a hapless Dragusin tackle, but his firm 23rd-minute effort was brilliantly tipped wide by Vicario even though a goal-kick was awarded.

Frank’s team did finally show some attacking intent when Solanke teed up Xavi Simons but his shot was blocked, and yet a minute before half-time City made it 2-0.

Dragusin’s chipped pass was intercepted by Rodri, who picked out Bernardo Silva and he teed up Semenyo to curl home.

Boos followed at the break and Frank was now without captain Cristian Romero with Pape Sarr introduced, but in a 4-2-3-1 system, Tottenham improved.

Conor Gallagher fired over before Destiny Udogie was superbly thwarted by fellow Italian Gianluigi Donnarumma.

A Spurs goal was coming and it arrived in controversial circumstances in the 53rd minute when Simons produced a wonderful pass into Solanke, who turned Abdukodir Khusanov and kicked through the back of Guehi’s leg to make it 2-1.

VAR checked for offside and a foul, but Guehi’s own-goal stood and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was alive as Guardiola received a booking from referee Robert Jones.

Frank sensed the momentum with attackers Wilson Odobert and Mathys Tel introduced in the 68th minute and three minutes later Solanke caused the stadium to erupt.

Gallagher burst forward down the right and crossed into the penalty area where Solanke produced a sensational back heel finish over the scrambling Donnarumma to make it 2-2.

It was all Spurs now as Simons played in Odobert, but Donnarumma made a vital save before Simons let fly and forced a sprawling save from the City goalkeeper.

Second-placed City did up the ante late on, with Tijjani Reijnders squandering two chances before Tottenham substitute Sarr thwarted efforts by Guehi and Haaland to ensure the points were shared.

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Liveupdated

Tottenham vs Manchester City live: Pep Guardiola’s side seek to keep pressure on league leaders

City come into the weekend second in the table just four points behind the Gunners

Manchester City make the trip to Tottenham this afternoon with the aim of maintaining the pressure on Premier League leaders Arsenal.

The Gunners lead at the top of the table is seven points following their win over Leeds United on Saturday and City have the chance to close the gap should they defeat Spurs in the late kick off.

Pep Guardiola must navigate a growing injury crisis which worsened during the week when Jeremy Doku was subbed off in the 2-0 Champions League win over Galatasaray. Ruben Dias, John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, Mateo Kovacic and Savinho are all sidelined while Oscar Bobb has completed a move to Fulham.

For Spurs, Thomas Frank is trying to ease the pressure on his job with a run of solid performances but the spotlight is shining on how Tottenham compete against City. Spurs sit 14th in the league and will need to show they have the ability to propel themselves up the table if Frank is to hold on to his role as manager.

Follow all the action from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with our live blog below:

Bernardo Silva blends Manchester City past and present to raise one Pep Guardiola question

It might have been a scene from a training session over any of the seven seasons they were teammates. With a change of pace, Bernardo Silva darted past Ilkay Gundogan.

This time, it was on the Etihad Stadium pitch. Manchester City captains past and present are two of Pep Guardiola’s favourite ever players, a pair with the technical skills and footballing intellect to appeal to a manager who is both purist and theorist.

Silva’s blend of Manchester City past and present raises one Guardiola question

Silva, out of contract in the summer, has been a key figure in Manchester City’s evolution

Mike Jones1 February 2026 14:30

Nottingham Forest sign Manchester City’s forgotten goalkeeper

Nottingham Forest have signed goalkeeper Stefan Ortega after agreeing a deal with Manchester City.

The German moves to the City Ground on a free transfer, though the transfer could net City £500,000 if clauses are triggered.

Ortega is set to be Forest’s back-up goalkeeper to Matz Sels after John Victor was ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

Will Castle1 February 2026 14:15

Jeremy Doku’s early exit against Galatasaray hits Man City with fresh injury blow

Manchester City were dealt a fresh injury blow as Jeremy Doku was forced off during their Champions League clash with Galatasaray at the Etihad Stadium.

Doku had impressed during the first half in which City took a two goal lead over their Turkish opponents but with 10 minutes to go until the break he fell to the ground and had to be subbed off.

Jeremy Doku’s early exit against Galatasaray hits Man City with fresh injury blow

The winger picked up a knock in the first half of their Champions League tie with Galatasaray

Mike Jones1 February 2026 14:00

Is this boom or bust for Thomas Frank?

Even after delivering the club a top-eight finish in the Champions League last week, you have to feel Thomas Frank is still clinging onto to his Tottenham job by the skin of his teeth.

Spurs required last-gasp heroics from captain Cristian Romero to salvage a draw against relegation-threatened Burnley last week, coming a week after the club were beaten at home by relegation strugglers West Ham - their third home defeat in four games.

That loss coincided with the atmosphere turning hostile towards the Dane as supporters chanted for his sacking, and while back-to-back European wins have so far done enough to spare Frank his dismissal, another damning Premier League loss could prove the final straw for the Spurs hierarchy.

Will Castle1 February 2026 13:45

Pep Guardiola misses Man City press conference for ‘personal matter’

Pep Guardiola missed Manchester City’s press conference for personal reasons on Friday, a day after he spoke at a charity event in Barcelona in support of Palestinian children.

The City boss was due to hold a lunchtime press conference to preview Sunday’s Premier League game against Tottenham but assistant boss Pep Lijnders took his place.

Pep Guardiola misses Man City press conference for ‘personal matter’

City have not provided details of Guardiola’s absence, but on Thursday he spoke at a charity event in Barcelona in support of Palestinian children.

Mike Jones1 February 2026 13:37

Man City's early team news

For City, Jeremy Doku will likely miss this match after being forced off in the first half against Galatasaray, though the extent of his problem is not yet clear.

Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic are the long-term absentees, though John Stones, Ruben Dias and Savio won’t be returning until later next month.

Predicted Man City XI: Donnarumma; Nunes, Khusanov, Guehi, O’Reilly; Rodri; Cherki, Silva, Foden, Marmoush; Haaland.

Mike Jones1 February 2026 13:30

Early team news for Tottenham

Thomas Frank’s main concern is the fitness of Micky van de Ven, who missed the game against Frankfurt and will face a late fitness test.

James Maddison, Rodrigo Bentancur, Mohammed Kudus, Ben Davies, Lucas Bergvall and Dejan Kulusevski are all sidelined for the foreseeable future for Spurs, and while Richarlison and Pedro Porro are nearing returns, they won’t be back until later in February.

Predicted Tottenham XI: Vicario; Spence, Romero, van de Ven, Udogie; Gray, Palhinha; Odobert, Sarr, Simons; Solanke.

Mike Jones1 February 2026 13:23

How can I watch it?

Viewers in the UK can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, with coverage starting at 4pm. Subscribers can also stream the action online via NOWTV.

If you’re not a Sky customer, you can grab a NOWTV Day Pass here to watch without a subscription.

Mike Jones1 February 2026 13:15

When is Tottenham vs Man City?

The match will take place on Sunday, 1 February at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with kick-off set for 4.30pm.

Mike Jones1 February 2026 13:07

Tottenham vs Manchester City live

Tottenham Hotspur host Manchester City in the Premier League tonight, with Pep Guardiola’s side looking to stay within touching distance of league leaders Arsenal this weekend.

Guardiola’s men are hoping for a big result against a struggling Spurs side ahead of matches against Liverpool and Newcastle in coming weeks.

While Spurs are currently languishing in 14th in the table, they have consistently been a bogey side for Guardiola over the course of his time in England, and while the visitors will head in as heavy favourites, Spurs’ 2-0 win in the reverse fixture proves that they are capable of denting City’s title hopes this afternoon.

Mike Jones1 February 2026 13:00

Tottenham Hotspur host Manchester City in the Premier League tonight, with Pep Guardiola’s side looking to stay within touching distance of league leaders Arsenal this weekend.

The Gunners’ 4-0 hammering of Leeds yesterday means that City begin the day seven points behind Mikel Arteta’s side, with Guardiola’s men hoping for a big result against a struggling Spurs side ahead of matches against Liverpool and Newcastle in coming weeks.

While Spurs are currently languishing in 14th in the table, they have consistently been a bogey side for Pep Guardiola over the course of his time in England tenure, and while the visitors will head in as heavy favourites, Spurs’ 2-0 win in the reverse fixture proves that they are capable of denting City’s title hopes this afternoon.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the match.

When is Tottenham vs Man City?

The match will take place on Sunday, 1 February at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with kick-off set for 4.30pm.

How can I watch it?

Viewers in the UK can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, with coverage starting at 4pm. Subscribers can also stream the action online via NOWTV.

If you’re not a Sky customer, you can grab a NOWTV Day Pass here to watch without a subscription.

Team news

Thomas Frank’s main concern is the fitness of Micky van de Ven, who missed the game against Frankfurt and will face a late fitness test.

James Maddison, Rodrigo Bentancur, Mohammed Kudus, Ben Davies, Lucas Bergvall and Dejan Kulusevski are all sidelined for the foreseeable future for Spurs, and while Richarlison and Pedro Porro are nearing returns, they won’t be back until later in February.

For City, Jeremy Doku will likely miss this match after being forced off in the first half against Galatasaray, though the extent of his problem is not yet clear.

Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic are the long-term absentees, though John Stones, Ruben Dias and Savio won’t be returning until later next month.

Predicted line-ups

Tottenham XI: Vicario; Spence, Romero, van de Ven, Udogie; Gray, Palhinha; Odobert, Sarr, Simons; Solanke.

The pressure will be back on Tottenham boss Thomas Frank on Sunday when they face Manchester City at home in the late kick-off (4:30pm, live on Sky Sports).

They might have qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League with a 2-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt and finished fourth in the league table, but in the Premier League, they sit 14th, and the fans are less than impressed.

The reaction to Frank has been toxic at times as he struggles to win over the Spurs faithful, but maybe a win over City could help?

Despite all the speculation and pressure on Frank, he is not the favourite with the football betting sites to be the next manager to lose his job; that honour goes to Liverpool boss Arne Slot, who is 4/6 while Frank is 2/1.

City also made it through automatically to the knockout stage with a 2-0 win at home to Galatasaray, to join Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea safely through.

Neither side is going into the game in the best of form domestically, and City have won just one of their last five games in the league and that came last time out against the bottom side Wolves.

Before that, they lost to Manchester United and drew with Sunderland, Chelsea and Brighton. What will be the most frustrating fact for manager Pep Guardiola is that despite that form, they are still only four points behind the leaders, Arsenal.

Had they been more ruthless in front of goal, that league table could look very different right now, and they are as low as 5/2 in the Premier League odds to win the title.

Spurs go into the game without a win in their last five in the league and just two in their last 14, and they came against Brentford and Crystal Palace.

They have only won seven games all season in the Premier League, and just two of those have come at home, that one against the Bees in December and a 3-0 win over Burnley in their opening game of the season when hopes were so high.

Frank currently has the worst points per game at home of any Spurs boss in Premier League history at just 0.82.

Tottenham vs Manchester City betting: Pressure to mount on Frank

In fact, August started well for Spurs, who followed up that win over the Clarets with a 2-0 win over City at the Etihad when first-half goals from Brennan Johnson and Joao Palhinha secured the win.

That was their second successive win at City after James Maddison scored twice last season to help the side to a 4-0 win.

They have lost their last two league meetings at home, though without scoring a goal. Erling Haaland scored the only goal of the game last season, and he scored twice the season before to secure a 2-0 win.

One surprising statistic is that Pep Guardiola has lost more league games against Spurs than any other opponent in his managerial career, going down eight times against them so far across the league, FA Cup and League Cup.

This could be the perfect game for City to get their title push back on track, and the football betting sites seem to agree and have them as favourites.

Five of the last six meetings between the two sides have been won to nil, and although City haven’t looked at their best at the back, the arrival of Marc Guehi has come just at the right time.

Tottenham vs Manchester City prediction 1: City to win to nil - 23/10 BetVictor

Tottenham vs Manchester City prediction: Haaland to punish Spurs

We have already mentioned Haaland’s record against Spurs, and after he finally got back among the goals on Wednesday, it would be silly not to back him again.

His goal after just 10 minutes ended a five-game goalless run and was his first from open play in 10, and took his tally for the season to 40 goals in 48 games for club and country.

For City, he has 27 so far and just two fewer in the league than he managed in the whole of last season, with 20.

Betting sites are offering just 10/11 on him scoring at any time, but you can get 16/5 on him scoring two or more, which he has already done 12 times this season.

Tottenham vs Manchester City prediction 2: Haaland to score two or more - 16/5 BetVictor

Tottenham vs Manchester City team news:

Tottenham vs Manchester City predicted lineups:

Tottenham: Vicario, Danso, Romero, van de Ven, Bissouma, Gallagher, Porro, Spence, Simons, Kudus, Muani

Manchester City: Donnarumma, Nunes, Khusanov, Guehi, O’Reilly, Rodri, Silva, Foden, Doku, Cherki, Haaland.

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To unlock this free bet offer, new users must use the link below before creating a Coral account. After that, deposit £10 and then bet £10 on any Tottenham vs Manchester City market with odds of 1/2 or greater.

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Liveupdated

Transfer news live: Man Utd star wanted by Real Madrid, Tottenham consider shock Sterling move and Liverpool plot Upamecano swoop

All the latest news, gossip and rumours from the January transfer window

The final days of the January transfer window put Premier League clubs up against it in the scramble for late additions to make a decisive impact at the business end of the season.

Raheem Sterling, now a free agent after his sad fall at Chelsea led to his contract being terminated, has been linked with Tottenham and seven other clubs.

The Blues have been linked to Jeremy Jacquet, with Liverpool and Bayern Munich reportedly keen to rival Liam Rosenior’s side in the summer should a January deal not materialise.

Premier League leaders Arsenal are plotting a bid for Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez, after Ethan Nwaneri completed his loan move to Marseille. Alvarez would cost up to £87m and Gary Lineker believes he is not happy with his situation at Atletico and could be in favour of the move.

Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below

Unai Emery linked with Real Madrid job

Unai Emery has impressed so much after guiding Aston Villa to a Premier League title race and into the last 16 of the Europa League that Real Madrid are considering the Spanish coach.

A shortlist will be compiled, reports Sky Germany, with Alvaro Arbeloa in temporary charge following Xabi Alonso’s sacking.

Jack Rathborn30 January 2026 10:25

Zinchenko set for Ajax move?

Ajax are closing in on a deal for Oleksandr Zinchenko, reports Fabrizio Romano.

The 29-year-old is on loan at Nottingham Forest from Arsenal, but a permanent deal to Amsterdam could materialise.

The Gunners would bank €1.5m (£1.3m), plus add-ons, which would be tied to the Dutch outfit qualifying for the Champions League.

Jack Rathborn30 January 2026 10:10

Chelsea interested in Endrick?

Another fairly sensationalist claim from Spanish media but one you could see being true!

Fichajes reports that Chelsea are targeting a move for Real Madrid’s Brazilian forward Endrick, who has impressed since moving to Lyon on loan recently.

The report claims that the Blues would be willing to make a deal up to €80m, though any move would be complicated by the fact that the 19-year-old is under contract at the Bernabeu until 2030.

Chris Wilson30 January 2026 09:55

Chelsea defender set for West Ham loan?

Axel Disasi is on the brink of joining West Ham from Chelsea on loan, reports Fabrizio Romano.

The Chelsea centre-back could boost Nuno Espirito Santo’s Hammers and the bid to beat the drop.

Disasi was part of the Blues’ “bomb squad”, but has rejointed training under Liam Rosenior.

But there is little chance of regular minutes still at Stamford Bridge, meaning a loan across London could revitalise his career.

Jack Rathborn30 January 2026 09:40

Nuno: West Ham must 'move forward' without Paqueta

Nuno Espirito Santo has admitted West Ham need to "move forward" without Lucas Paqueta after the club reluctantly gave the green light for his £35m switch to Flamengo.

"I think we found a solution that everybody was aware of and came to a good conclusion," said Nuno.

"Lucas was clear that he wanted to return home and we expect the medical and things to become official.

"For me Lucas is a special player, a special person, he's a number 10. I think everything could be different, but the circumstances are what they are.

"He wanted to go to Brazil, and you keep moving, knowing that he's special person and special player and we wish him all the best.

"It could have been done two years ago, and then everything would be different. But it is what it is, and we move forward."

Will Castle30 January 2026 09:25

Haaland and Klopp to make Madrid moves?

Reports in Spain suggest that Jurgen Klopp has made contact with Erling Haaland over a potential move to Real Madrid if the German were to take over as manager at the Bernabeu.

El Nacional claims that Klopp is set to take over as full-time boss at the beginning of next season, and that the German has already contacted Haaland over joining the club.

Reports elsewhere in Spain also claim that Haaland’s dream club is Real Madrid, and that he would only accept a move to the Bernabeu if he were to leave City.

Chris Wilson30 January 2026 09:10

Arne Slot appears to rule out new signings despite Liverpool’s growing injury concerns

Liverpool manager Arne Slot appeared to rule out making a defensive signing this month despite admitting that he thinks Jeremie Frimpong will be “out for a period of time” after the Dutchman was forced off against Qarabag.

Frimpong pulled up with a potential hamstring injury within the first three minutes of the Reds’ 6-0 demolition of the Azerbaijani side, with the Dutchman falling and requiring treatment before trudging off and being replaced by Wataru Endo.

He becomes the fifth name on the treatment table for the Reds, and the fourth defender alongside Joe Gomez, Giovanni Leoni and Conor Bradley, with Ibrahima Konate also absent at present due to compassionate leave.

Arne Slot appears to rule out new signings despite growing injury concerns

Jeremie Frimpong picked up a knock in the victory over Qarabag leaving Liverpool with no fit right-backs

Chris Wilson30 January 2026 08:55

Spurs lead hunt for Sterling with eight clubs keen on ex-Chelsea star

Tottenham are among a group of eight clubs keen to sign Raheem Sterling after his Chelsea exit.

The Mail reports that Spurs would be keen to bolster their forward options after injuries to Richarlison and Dominic Solanke and the poor form of Randal Kolo Muani and Mathys Tel.

Napoli and Juventus are also linked, with the chance to link up again with Kevin De Bruyne in Naples.

Jack Rathborn30 January 2026 08:40

Dalot considered by Madrid and Bayern after United form

Man United star Diogo Dalot has been linked with a move to Real Madrid.

It’s not the most concrete of reports, with Fichajes detailing the loss to Benfica has pushed Los Blancos to make a move for the Portuguese full-back.

They add that Bayern Munich are also keen, and could spark a bidding war, with United holding a lot of negotiating power, with two years remaining on his deal and the potential for a one-year option.

Jack Rathborn30 January 2026 08:23

Andrews gives assessment of Nelson's faltering Brentford loan

Keith Andrews has acknowledged Reiss Nelson's loan at Brentford has not yet gone to plan, but backed the Arsenal forward to make an impact.

Ahead of Sunday's trip to Aston Villa, Andrews told a press conference: "Reiss has had to overcome a couple of niggles that has just stifled the rhythm of his game and getting up to speed.

"I think anyone that watches us play really sees the levels of intensity that we play with, in terms of how we press and how get after teams, how we spring forward from wherever we are on the pitch, utilise the speed we have and attack with vengeance.

"It hasn't been ideal for Reiss that the fact it's been disrupted and he will feel he has not had enough opportunities. I have to accept that to a point, but equally I feel like some of the attacking players have played particularly well.

"Reiss as a young man, I'm really keen on him, I really like his qualities and really like his qualities as a person.

"I think he has fitted into the football club really well and we just need to get him to that level where he can really impact it consistently."

Will Castle30 January 2026 07:30

Tottenham are exploring a move for former Aston Villa winger Moussa Diaby as they look to boost their attacking options before the January transfer deadline.

Spurs would be required to rival Serie A giants Inter Milan for the 26-year-old’s signature, who plays for Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad following his July 2024 departure from Villa Park.

After 18 months in Jeddah, the Frenchman now open to returning to a Champions League club, criteria which Spurs and Inter currently fall under. Spurs are into the competition’s last 16 after sealing a top-eight finish in the league phase’s final matchday, while Inter were forced to settle for a place in the knockout play-offs, where they will face either Benfica or Bodo/Glimt.

Tottenham want to sign Diaby this window but will need to act fast to get a move over the line before the 2 February deadline, while Diaby is currently assessing his options.

Thomas Frank is lacking in quality options up top, with summer recruit Mohammed Kudus sidelined until April while Richarlison is also out with a hamstring problem.

Inter are favourites for his signature and had been close to a deal on Thursday, but there is still a gap for Spurs to hijack the move.

Diaby has one full season of Premier League experience, featuring in all 38 games of the 2023/24 season with Aston Villa following his club-record arrival from Bayer Leverkusen.

Diaby scored 10 goals and bagged 11 assists across all competitions in that campaign, helping Villa to a remarkable top-four finish.

The winger, a product of Paris Saint-Germain’s academy, attracted interest from Saudi Arabia in the summer that followed, with Villa opting to recoup nearly all of their investment by selling him on for £50m.

He was instrumental in helping Al-Ittihad to the Saudi Pro League title in his maiden campaign last year, finishing the season with the joint-most assists of any player in the league (15) alongside Al-Hilal’s Salem Al-Dawsari.

However, Diaby’s performances in the Middle East have not been enough to convince Didier Deschamps to recall him to the France national team, for whom he boasts 11 caps, though none of them have come since his Aston Villa exit.

Tottenham are currently preparing for the visit of Manchester City on Sunday, which comes a day before next week’s winter transfer deadline.

While the prospect of Champions League football this season may entice Diaby, Thomas Frank’s side are unlikely to be playing in Europe’s premier competition next term with the club dwindling in 14th.

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All the latest news, gossip and rumours from the January transfer window

The final week of the January transfer window arrives with Premier League clubs making some late additions before the business end of the season.

Chelsea appeared to be accelerating plans to sign Jeremy Jacquet, but a January move for the Rennes centre-back has stalled, leaving Liverpool and Bayern Munich to reportedly join the Blues in negotiations over a summer deal.

Premier League leaders Arsenal are plotting a bid for Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez, after Ethan Nwaneri completed his loan move to Marseille. Alvarez would cost up to £87m and Gary Lineker believes he is not happy with his situation at Atletico and could be in favour of the move.

Tottenham looked poised for a shock swoop after it emerged that they were plotting a deal for Liverpool stalwart Andy Robertson, whose contract is up at the end of the season. After losing his place to Milos Kerkez, the Reds have blocked a premature exit for the 31-year-old citing the need of his services for the remainder of the season. A former Liverpool full-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has struggled at Real Madrid so far, could be a future target for Man City, it has been reported, though any return to the Premier League looks premature with the England international determined to fight for his place.

Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below

Palace set to land £50m Wolves star?

Crystal Palace look ready to sell Jean Paul Mateta, as a deal is close to sign Jorgen Strand Larsen, reports Fabrizio Romano, David Ornstein and others.

A total package, add-ons included, could reach a massive £50m for the Norway forward.

It is a blow for Wolves, and their unlikely bid to beat the drop, but the Eagles could now sanction the sale of their French forward.

Jack Rathborn29 January 2026 10:25

Atletico consider move for ex-Bayern star

Atletico Madrid are considering a move for Leon Goretzka, reports Sky Sports Germany.

The 30-year-old is out of contract after leaving Bayern Munich in the summer.

Goretzka could sign a short-term deal with Diego Simeone’s side, who dropped into the Champions League play-offs last night after failing to finish inside the top eight.

Jack Rathborn29 January 2026 10:10

Ousmane Dembele linked with Saudi Pro League move

PSG star Ousmane Dembele is a target for Saudi Pro League clubs, reports Sky Sports.

The France international could consider a move away after the 2026 World Cup.

The 28-year-old has a contract at the Parc des Princes until 2028, meaning a substantial fee would be due to the Ligue 1 giants if the Ballon d’Or holder is to leave.

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Spurs eye Palace forward to replace Kolo Muani?

Tottenham Hotspur could make a move for Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta, reports the Mail.

That follows Juventus interest in their 27-year-old loanee Randal Kolo Muani.

That could be cut short, with the Paris Saint-Germain forward moving back to Turin.

Leaving Spurs and Thomas Frank to acquire a replacement in the Eagles striker.

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Raheem Sterling leaves Chelsea after contract terminated early before January deadline day

Raheem Sterling has left Chelsea after a mutual agreement to terminate his contract.

The former England winger has been out of favour for two seasons at Stamford Bridge, leading to a loan move to rivals Arsenal last term.

But without a move last summer, Sterling has not played a minute of first-team football since.

A statement from Chelsea read: "Raheem Sterling has today departed Chelsea Football Club by mutual agreement, bringing to an end three-and-a-half seasons as our player, having signed in the summer of 2022 when he was transferred from Manchester City.”

Raheem Sterling leaves Chelsea after contract terminated early

The former England winger has not played since his loan to Arsenal expired at the end of last season

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Fulham agree Oscar Bobb deal as Manchester City include two key clauses

Fulham have agreed to sign Oscar Bobb from Manchester City for an initial £27m.

As part of the deal, City will also get a 20 percent sell-on clause and matching rights in case they want to bring the Norway international back to the Etihad Stadium.

Bobb is set to join Fulham as a replacement for fellow winger Adama Traore, who has signed for West Ham, and means they have more cover in case Harry Wilson, who is out of contract at the end of the season, leaves Craven Cottage.

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Patrick Dorgu is set for up to 10 weeks on the sidelines with a hamstring problem after Manchester United were dealt the worst case scenario for the player’s injury.

Dorgu went down with a thigh problem late into Sunday’s win over Premier League leaders Arsenal, a game in which the Dane starred and scored a spectacular half-volley to give his side the lead after the restart.

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Dorgu came off injured with a hamstring problem against Arsenal, having scored a stunning half-volley earlier in the game

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Arne Slot expects Andy Robertson to stay at Liverpool after Spurs interest

Arne Slot expects Andy Robertson to stay put at Liverpool this month after preliminary talks with Tottenham were held over a move.

Spurs made a surprise approach for the left-back last week, whose contract at Anfield expires in the summer and who had said he would like more first-team football after losing his place in the side to Milos Kerkez.

Liverpool considered Tottenham’s offer out of respect for Robertson but concluded that, as things stand, they need him at Anfield.

Arne Slot expects Andy Robertson to stay at Liverpool after Spurs interest

Preliminary talks were held with Tottenham over a switch for Robertson but Liverpool are now set to keep their vice-captain

Will Castle29 January 2026 05:00

Beto's move collapses

Everton striker Beto’s move to Fenerbache has collapsed.

The Portuguese had been earmarked as a replacement for Youssef En-Nesyri, who is in talks with Juventus, and his agent was spotted in Istanbul this week.

Everton demanded a fee of €20m (£17.3m) which has led Fenerbahce to move onto other targets.

Will Castle29 January 2026 04:00

Harry Kane opens talks to extend Bayern Munich contract

England captain Harry Kane is reportedly in discussions with Bayern Munich regarding a new contract, following a stellar debut season in Germany.

The prolific striker, whose current deal runs until summer 2027, is understood to be negotiating an extension that could see him remain at the Bundesliga champions until 2028 or 2029.

Bayern sporting director Max Eberl confirmed the talks on Monday, stating: "We are talking to Harry."

Harry Kane opens talks to extend Bayern Munich contract

Harry Kane could be set to extend his stay at Bayern Munich, with his current contract set to expire next year

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