Ademola Lookman is likely to remain with Atalanta; Tyrell Malacia seeks a move as European and Saudi clubs show interest; AS Roma is eyeing Mertcan Ayhan. Here are the crucial updates from the transfer market highlighted by Rudy Galetti, our transfer authority.
Lookman Staying at Atalanta as January Departure Seems Unlikely
Ademola Lookman’s prospects for a short-term transfer appear dim as January approaches. Early interest from Turkish clubs, including Galatasaray, has not materialized into serious discussions. The winger has managed to cultivate a positive atmosphere at Atalanta following a challenging summer that involved struggles with the previous coach, Ivan Jurić.
With Jurić’s exit and Raffaele Palladino taking the helm, Lookman’s situation has improved significantly. Currently, there are no negotiations underway for a winter transfer. He is concentrating fully on his season in Bergamo and is also preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which has been officially confirmed.
After the AFCON concludes, it is expected that clubs interested in Lookman will renew discussions, as the landscape for the second half of the season clarifies. Both Lookman and Atalanta are comfortable with the current situation, as the player’s contract lasts until 2027 and there is no immediate pressure on either side. Thus, it appears that Lookman will continue his journey in Serie A, focusing on his key role under Palladino and delaying major decisions until after the international tournament.
Malacia Pursuing January Transfer as European and Saudi Interest Grows
Manchester United is gearing up for a potential January exit for Tyrell Malacia, as the Dutch defender is eager for more playing time ahead of the upcoming World Cup. Despite recently returning to the bench for a match against Brighton, he has not yet played this season, prompting discussions about a winter move being increasingly viable for both the player and the club. Malacia’s contract extends until June 2026, enabling him to enter into a pre-contract with any interested club soon.
The 26-year-old is determined to secure a move in January to avoid squandering another six months of his career. Interest in Malacia is burgeoning, with Saudi clubs showing concrete intentions in their inquiries. Earlier, Feyenoord explored a potential return to his former club, keeping a close watch on his situation. Other European teams are also monitoring, with Real Betis and Fiorentina making notable inquiries; the latter requested a six-month loan, which would necessitate Malacia extending his contract with United until 2027—an unlikely scenario at this point.
With January fast approaching, the competition for Malacia is intensifying as he aims to find a club that can guarantee him playing opportunities and aid in reviving his career at an elite level.
Meanwhile, attention is growing for Eguinaldo, the 21-year-old Brazilian winger/striker from Shakhtar Donetsk. Originally linked to Atletico Madrid, more prominent clubs from Italy and England are joining the interest as his talents have become increasingly recognized. This season, Eguinaldo has demonstrated impressive performance, scoring 3 goals in just 333 minutes in the Premier League, with his most recent strike coming in a dominant 6-0 victory against Obolon.
His ongoing productivity has led scouts to label him as one of the most exciting young forwards in Eastern Europe. Eguinaldo’s contract runs until June 2028, granting Shakhtar considerable leverage in negotiations, yet clubs are beginning to gather necessary information ahead of summer transfer considerations. AS Roma and Torino had previously displayed interest, and with top English teams now sending scouts, the competition for Eguinaldo is ramping up. Should he maintain his current form, summer transfer windows could provide lucrative opportunities for this promising Brazilian talent.
Premier League and La Liga Giants Eye Harlan Perry as Contract Negotiations Remain Open
Harlan Perry’s stellar performances with Swansea City U21 are attracting considerable interest from both English and Spanish clubs, posing a significant threat to the Welsh club’s hopes of retaining their standout academy player. As Perry approaches his 18th birthday on November 28, Swansea has yet to offer him a professional contract, which has opened the door for major clubs to swoop in and gather information about the talented midfielder.
Perry has clinched Swansea’s Player of the Year award four consecutive times, a remarkable achievement for such a young player, illustrating his sustained excellence. Coaches within the academy regard him as one of the most exceptional talents to emerge from Swansea in the past decade.
On the international front, Perry has also represented Welsh youth national teams, showcasing his talent, dedication, and impressive presence on the field. His recent performances at youth levels have only heightened interest, with several prominent clubs poised to initiate discussions shortly. If Swansea fails to secure his first professional contract swiftly, they jeopardize losing a midfielder many foresee as a pivotal player for both his club and country in the coming years.
AS Roma Exhibits Strong Interest in Schalke Defender Mertcan Ayhan Amid Growing Competition
AS Roma is actively pursuing Mertcan Ayhan, one of the most promising young defenders in German football. The 19-year-old Turkish center-back, who also possesses a German passport, has a contract with Schalke 04 that runs until June 2028, with the option for an additional year.
With no release clause in his contract, Schalke retains the ability to negotiate, and they’re receptive to offers starting from €8 million. Roma has monitored Ayhan’s progress over several months and is now regarded as a proactive contender in the pursuit.
However, competition is escalating quickly. Galatasaray has shown longstanding interest, while other European clubs are gathering insights in anticipation of potential summer bids. During the last transfer window, Freiburg made an attempt to acquire Ayhan following his promising development, but Schalke opted to retain him due to his rapid rise.
That decision has proven advantageous, as Ayhan has emerged as one of Bundesliga 2’s standout performers, helping Schalke secure a position near the top of the league as they aim for promotion. With his strong physicality, composure with the ball, and maturity beyond his years, Ayhan is ascendant as a promising defensive talent in Europe, and the race for his signature is just beginning.