January 2026 – Page 2

As the January transfer window swings into full gear, football clubs across Europe and Asia are making decisive moves to bolster their squads, while recent match results continue to shape league narratives. Today, January 3, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. UTC, we delve into the most significant developments from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, the Bundesliga, and Vietnam’s V. League 1, highlighting key performances and the biggest transfer headlines.

Premier League: Arsenal’s Dominance and Palace’s Record Deal

The festive fixture schedule in the Premier League concluded its nineteenth matchday with some intriguing results, setting the stage for an intense second half of the season. Among the standout performances, Arsenal’s commanding 4-1 victory over Aston Villa on December 30, 2025, at the Emirates Stadium, proved to be the most significant. This crucial win saw the Gunners maintain their strong position at the top, or near the top, of the league table, demonstrating their title aspirations. While specific goalscorers for this particular match were not immediately detailed in the recent summaries, Arsenal’s attacking prowess has been a consistent theme throughout the season. The victory against a formidable Aston Villa side, who have also been enjoying a strong campaign, underscored Arsenal’s depth and tactical execution under pressure. Other notable results from the round included a series of draws on January 1, 2026, with Liverpool held to a 0-0 stalemate by Leeds United, Crystal Palace drawing 1-1 with Fulham, Sunderland holding Manchester City to a goalless draw, and Brentford playing out a 0-0 draw against Tottenham Hotspur. These results indicate the increasing competitiveness and unpredictability of England’s top flight.

In the bustling Premier League transfer market, the most significant confirmed deal currently dominating headlines is Brennan Johnson’s £35 million move from Tottenham Hotspur to Crystal Palace. This transfer, finalized on January 2, 2026, represents a club-record signing for Crystal Palace, signaling their ambition to strengthen their attacking options. Johnson, a 24-year-old Wales international, has signed a four-and-a-half-year deal at Selhurst Park. Despite being Tottenham’s top scorer last season, he had reportedly fallen out of favor under manager Thomas Frank. This move is expected to provide Johnson with more regular first-team football and offer Crystal Palace a significant boost in their pursuit of a higher league finish. Elsewhere, Manchester City are reportedly closing in on a £65 million move for Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo, while Liverpool has been linked with Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez for a potential £43 million fee.

Premier League: Arsenal's Dominance and Palace's Record Deal

La Liga: Atlético Madrid’s Statement Win and Barcelona’s Youth Acquisition

In Spain’s top flight, La Liga, the latest round of fixtures before the new year saw several crucial encounters. The most significant match result from the last completed round, which concluded around December 22, 2025, was Atlético Madrid’s emphatic 3-0 away victory over high-flying Girona on December 21, 2025. This result was a strong statement from Diego Simeone’s side against a Girona team that has defied expectations and challenged at the top of the table. While specific goalscorers for this match were not prominently featured in the immediate search results, the decisive margin of victory highlights Atlético’s defensive solidity and clinical finishing. Other important results included Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Sevilla on December 20, and convincing 4-0 victories for Elche against Rayo Vallecano and Real Betis against Getafe, both on December 21. Barcelona, the defending champions, also secured a 2-0 victory against Real Sociedad on December 22.

On the transfer front, La Liga champions FC Barcelona have reportedly reached an agreement to sign a promising young talent. The biggest transfer news involves Barcelona securing an agreement for U-20 striker Hamza Abdel-Karim from Egyptian giants Al Ahly. The 18-year-old Egypt international is expected to join Barcelona’s B team, which competes in the third tier of Spanish football, with a reported transfer fee of €2 million to make the deal permanent next season. The agreement also includes a clause stipulating that Abdel-Karim will either be promoted to Barcelona’s first team or sold to another club within the first three years of his contract, ensuring a potential financial return for Al Ahly. This strategic signing reflects Barcelona’s long-term vision for youth development. Meanwhile, surprising rumors suggest that Girona is exploring a loan move for Barcelona’s veteran goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, although there appears to be internal debate within Girona regarding the allocation of their limited January budget.

Serie A: Inter’s Tight Victory and Milan’s Attacking Reinforcement

Italy’s Serie A also saw a busy end to 2025, with matchday 17 concluding around December 29. The most significant result from this round was Inter Milan’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Atalanta on December 28, 2025. This narrow win against a strong Atalanta side, a perennial contender for European spots, was crucial for Inter in their quest for the Scudetto. While the individual goalscorer for this specific match was not immediately highlighted, such a result against a direct rival often has significant implications for the league standings. Other notable results from the round included defending champions Napoli securing a 2-0 win against Cremonese, and AC Milan comfortably beating Hellas Verona 3-0, both on December 28. AS Roma also registered a 3-1 victory over Genoa on December 29.

The Serie A transfer window officially opened on January 2, 2026, and AC Milan wasted no time in confirming a significant attacking reinforcement. The biggest confirmed deal is AC Milan’s signing of German striker Niclas Füllkrug. Füllkrug has already been training with the team at Milanello, and his official unveiling as a new signing was set to occur once the transfer window formally opened. This move is expected to bolster Milan’s offensive options as they push for success in domestic and European competitions. In other transfer speculation, Serie A champions Napoli have reportedly entered the race for Manchester United’s highly-rated midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, while Udinese defender Oumar Solet is attracting interest from a “five-team race” involving Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, West Ham United, and Manchester United.

Serie A: Inter's Tight Victory and Milan's Attacking Reinforcement

Bundesliga: Leverkusen’s Triumph and Gladbach’s Defensive Loan

The Bundesliga entered its winter break following matches around December 21, 2025. The most significant result from the last completed round was Bayer Leverkusen’s impressive 3-1 away victory against RB Leipzig on December 20, 2025. This was a pivotal clash between two of the league’s top teams, and Leverkusen’s ability to secure a win on the road against a strong Leipzig side highlights their credentials as serious title contenders. While specific goalscorers for this match were not detailed in the provided summaries, the result itself sent a clear message across the league. Other key results included Bayern Munich’s dominant 4-0 win over Heidenheim on December 21, and Borussia Dortmund’s 2-0 victory against Borussia Mönchengladbach on December 19.

In the Bundesliga transfer market, which opened on January 1, 2026, the most notable confirmed deal involves a defender moving from the Premier League. Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Kota Takai has joined Borussia Mönchengladbach on loan until June 2026. The 21-year-old Japan international has yet to make a first-team appearance for Spurs since his £5 million move in July 2025, with his early career in North London hampered by injuries. Borussia Mönchengladbach confirmed the loan signing on January 3, 2026, with their head of sports, Rouven Schröder, expressing delight at acquiring a “tall, physically strong centre-half who also has good pace.” Takai is expected to join his new teammates at their winter training camp and could make his debut as early as January 11.

V. League 1: Cong An Ha Noi’s Win and Ha Noi FC’s Free Agent Pickup

Vietnam’s V. League 1 is currently in a 64-day winter break, which began on November 24, 2025, and is scheduled to conclude on January 27, 2026, to accommodate the Vietnam U-23 team’s participation in the 2025 SEA Games and the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup. Therefore, the “last round” refers to the matches played just before this extended break. The most significant match result from this period was Cong An Ha Noi’s 3-1 victory over Hoang Anh Gia Lai on December 18, 2025. This win was crucial for Cong An Ha Noi, allowing them to maintain a strong position in the league standings before the hiatus. While specific goalscorers were not highlighted in the available summaries, the result itself reflects a strong performance from one of the league’s top contenders. The league is set to resume with fixtures on January 30 and 31, 2026.

Regarding transfer news in the V. League 1, the most recent confirmed deal involves a free agent. Willian Marlon Ferreira Moraes is set to join Ha Noi FC as a free agent on January 5, 2026. While details regarding the player’s position or impact are not extensively detailed, the acquisition of a free agent by a top V. League 1 club like Ha Noi FC is a notable piece of business during the transfer window. Clubs in the V. League 1 are actively looking to strengthen their rosters ahead of the league’s resumption in late January.

As the January transfer window officially swings open, football clubs across Europe are wasting no time in reshaping their squads for the second half of the 2025/2026 season. Today, January 2, 2026, the headlines are dominated by a blockbuster Premier League transfer nearing completion, while top clubs in La Liga, Serie A, and the Bundesliga are actively pursuing key reinforcements. Meanwhile, the V. League 1 in Vietnam is currently observing its mid-season break, with transfer activity anticipated later in the month.

Premier League: Arsenal’s Dominant Display and Manchester City’s Marquee Signing

The Premier League delivered a thrilling round of festive fixtures, with the most significant result undoubtedly being Arsenal’s commanding 4-1 victory over Aston Villa on December 30, 2025. This crucial win at the Emirates Stadium saw the Gunners solidify their position at the top of the league table, creating a four-point cushion after Manchester City’s subsequent goalless draw against Sunderland on January 1, 2026. Arsenal’s goals came from a diverse range of contributors, with Gabriel Magalhães opening the scoring, followed by strikes from Martin Zubimendi, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus. Ollie Watkins managed a late consolation goal for Aston Villa. This performance underscored Arsenal’s title credentials, demonstrating both their attacking prowess and depth.

In the transfer market, the biggest story currently dominating headlines is the imminent arrival of Antoine Semenyo at Manchester City. The Bournemouth forward is reportedly “practically done” with his £65 million move to the Etihad Stadium. This high-profile transfer is set to be one of the marquee signings of the winter window, with Semenyo having reportedly chosen City over other top Premier League rivals such as Manchester United, Liverpool, and Tottenham. Pep Guardiola’s side is keen to bolster its attacking options, and the Ghanaian international’s pace and goal-scoring ability are expected to provide a significant boost as they continue their pursuit of silverware. Elsewhere, Crystal Palace is set to acquire Tottenham’s Europa League winner Brennan Johnson in a £35 million deal. Aston Villa has also made an early move, securing Gremio prospect Alysson for €12 million, while Liverpool confirmed the permanent departure of youngster James Norris to Irish side Shelbourne.

Premier League: Arsenal's Dominant Display and Manchester City's Marquee Signing

La Liga: Real Madrid’s Resilience and Barcelona’s Cancelo Pursuit

In Spain, the last round of La Liga fixtures before the New Year saw some key results. One of the most significant matches was Real Madrid’s solid 2-0 victory over Sevilla on December 20, 2025. While specific goalscorers were not detailed in the available reports, this win was crucial for Real Madrid in maintaining pressure at the top of the table. Other notable results from that round included Girona’s 0-3 loss to Atletico Madrid and Elche’s emphatic 4-0 triumph over Rayo Vallecano. Barcelona, who currently sit atop the La Liga standings, secured a 2-0 win against Villarreal on December 21, 2025.

The transfer rumor mill in La Liga is buzzing with speculation surrounding Joao Cancelo. The Portuguese full-back, currently with Al-Hilal, is reportedly “desperate to leave” the Saudi club this winter and return to Europe. Both Barcelona and Inter Milan are said to be actively pursuing his signature, with Barcelona’s interest particularly strong despite their ongoing financial challenges. Cancelo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has reportedly offered his services to several Serie A clubs as well, indicating a competitive race for the 31-year-old’s services. Confirmed deals in La Liga include Endrick’s loan move from Real Madrid to Lyon, Rodrigo De Paul’s transfer from Atletico Madrid to Inter Miami for €15 million, and Javi Galán’s €0.5 million switch from Atletico Madrid to Osasuna. Atletico Madrid is also reportedly in the market for a central defender, while Barcelona is seeking a centre-back reinforcement.

Serie A: Juventus’ Victory and Milan’s Fullkrug Acquisition

The Italian Serie A concluded its latest round of matches just before the New Year. A significant result saw Juventus secure a 2-0 victory over Pisa on December 27, 2025. While the goalscorers were not explicitly mentioned in the available reports, this win was important for the Bianconeri as they aim to consolidate their position in the upper echelons of the league. Other key results included Udinese’s 1-1 draw with Lazio and a full slate of matches on December 28, 2025, featuring AC Milan against Hellas Verona and Atalanta hosting Internazionale.

On the transfer front, AC Milan has reportedly secured the services of German striker Niclas Fullkrug. The deal is said to be all but complete, with Fullkrug already training with the team at Milanello, awaiting his official unveiling once the Serie A transfer window formally opened today, January 2, 2026. This acquisition is expected to provide a significant boost to Milan’s attacking options. Inter Milan is also active, reportedly identifying Joao Cancelo as a top priority target, alongside Sassuolo starlet Tarik Muharemovic, as they look to strengthen their squad. Meanwhile, Roma is eyeing Chelsea defender Axel Disasi and Tottenham’s Radu Dragusin to bolster their backline. Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is also a subject of intense speculation, with Serie A heavyweights Juventus and champions Napoli reportedly keen on the 20-year-old.

Serie A: Juventus' Victory and Milan's Fullkrug Acquisition

Bundesliga: Leverkusen’s Statement Win and Stuttgart’s New Talent

The Bundesliga’s last round of fixtures before its traditional winter break concluded in mid-December. One of the most significant outcomes was Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s impressive 3-1 away victory against RB Leipzig on December 20, 2025. This result served as a strong statement from Leverkusen, who continue to challenge at the top of the German league. Elsewhere, reigning champions Bayern Munich secured a dominant 4-0 win over Heidenheim on December 21, 2025, showcasing their formidable strength. Borussia Dortmund also registered a 2-0 home win against Borussia Mönchengladbach on December 19, 2025.

With the Bundesliga winter transfer window opening on January 1, 2026, clubs are beginning to finalize deals. VfB Stuttgart is particularly active, with the “all-but-confirmed” signing of Ecuadorian talent Jeremy Arévalo. Stuttgart is also reportedly heating up its pursuit of Nottingham Forest’s Arnaud Kaliumendo. Other confirmed movements include Bayer Leverkusen acquiring Issa Traoré from Djoliba AC, and Eintracht Frankfurt bringing in Love Arrhov from Brommapojkarna and Keita Kosugi from Djurgårdens. A notable rumor involves Manchester City loanee Claudio Echeverri, who is reportedly open to a January exit from Bayer Leverkusen.

V. League 1: Mid-Season Break and Upcoming Transfer Window

The V. League 1 in Vietnam is currently observing a scheduled mid-season break, which commenced on November 24, 2025, and will run until January 27, 2026. This hiatus accommodates the participation of the Vietnam U-23 national team in the 2025 SEA Games and the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup. Consequently, there were no V. League 1 matches played in the last round of December 2025 or early January 2026. The most recent significant match result available is from December 18, 2025, where Cong An Ha Noi secured a 3-1 victory over Hoang Anh Gia Lai. Specific goalscorers for this match were not detailed in the available reports.

Due to the ongoing break, there are currently no transfer rumors or confirmed deals dominating the headlines for V. League 1 clubs. The official transfer window for the V. League 1 is set to open later in January, from January 24, 2026, to March 17, 2026. However, some future confirmed internal league transfers for late January have been reported, such as Tien Anh Truong moving from The Cong – Viettel FC to Ninh Binh FC on a free transfer, Pierre Lamothe joining SHB Da Nang FC from Ha Noi FC on loan, and Duc Viet Nguyen moving from Ninh Binh FC to Hong Linh Ha Tinh FC on loan. These movements are indicative of the activity expected once the window fully opens, but they are not yet headline-grabbing deals.

As the football world kicks off the new year on January 1, 2026, the transfer market is officially open for business in several major European leagues, promising a flurry of activity. Meanwhile, the festive fixture schedule across Europe delivered some significant results, with top clubs asserting their dominance and star players making headlines. From Arsenal’s commanding victory in the Premier League to Kylian Mbappé’s record-equalling feat in La Liga, the recent action has set the stage for an exciting second half of the season.

Premier League: Arsenal’s Statement Win and Semenyo on Manchester City’s Radar

The English Premier League wrapped up its festive fixtures with a crucial set of matches, none more impactful than Arsenal’s emphatic 4-1 victory over Aston Villa on December 30, 2025. This significant result saw the Gunners solidify their position at the top of the table, showcasing their title credentials with a dominant performance at the Emirates. Key goalscorers for Arsenal included Gabriel, Martin Zubimendi, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus, each contributing to a comprehensive win that sent a strong message to their rivals. Elsewhere, Chelsea faced a tougher challenge, drawing 2-2 with Bournemouth, while Manchester United also shared the points in a 1-1 stalemate with Wolves. These results highlight the unpredictable nature of the Premier League, where every point is hard-fought.

Off the pitch, the January transfer window officially opened today, January 1, 2026, and speculation is already rife. The biggest transfer rumor currently dominating headlines involves Bournemouth’s dynamic forward, Antoine Semenyo. Manchester City is reportedly at the forefront of clubs ready to trigger his substantial £65 million release clause. Semenyo’s impressive performances have attracted significant attention, and a move to the reigning champions would undoubtedly be one of the window’s most high-profile deals. Other whispers suggest Liverpool’s continued interest in defender Marc Guehi, while Arsenal, despite their strong league position, might be looking to bolster their squad with strategic loan signings to navigate the demanding schedule ahead.

Premier League: Arsenal's Statement Win and Semenyo on Manchester City's Radar

La Liga: Mbappé’s Historic Goal and Ter Stegen’s Potential Barcelona Exit

In Spain, the end of December brought noteworthy results before the brief winter break. Real Madrid secured a vital 2-0 win against Sevilla on December 20, 2025, at the Santiago Bernabéu. The match was particularly significant as Kylian Mbappé netted a late penalty, his 59th goal of 2025, equalling Cristiano Ronaldo’s club record for goals in a calendar year. Jude Bellingham had earlier opened the scoring for Los Blancos with a first-half header, assisted by Rodrygo, ensuring a crucial three points for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Meanwhile, defending champions Barcelona also registered a win, beating Villarreal 2-0 away on December 21, with goals from Raphinha (penalty) and Lamine Yamal, assisted by Frenkie de Jong.

The La Liga transfer window, however, will officially open a day later than some other European leagues, on January 2, 2026. Despite the slight delay, transfer news is already swirling, particularly around Camp Nou. The most significant rumor involves Barcelona’s veteran goalkeeper, Marc-André ter Stegen. Reports suggest that the German international is willing to leave Barcelona in January if the club agrees to pay off his remaining contract in full. This potential departure, driven by financial considerations, could mark a major shift for the Catalan giants. While Barcelona is actively seeking reinforcements, their ongoing financial challenges mean they are exploring various options, including the return of players from loan spells like Rodrigo De Paul to Atletico Madrid.

Serie A: Nkunku’s Brace Lifts Milan and Gomez Linked with Rossoneri

Italy’s Serie A also saw compelling action in the final days of 2025. AC Milan delivered a strong performance with a 3-0 victory over Hellas Verona on December 28, 2025, at San Siro. The Rossoneri were propelled by a brace from Christopher Nkunku, who opened his Serie A goal-scoring account for the season, with his first goal coming from a penalty early in the second half. Christian Pulisic had scored the opener in first-half added time, volleying home from close range after a flick-on from Adrien Rabiot following a Luka Modrić corner. This win allowed Milan to temporarily leapfrog rivals Inter at the top of the standings. AS Roma also secured a 3-1 win against Genoa on December 29, with Matìas Soulé, Manu Koné, and Evan Ferguson finding the net for the Giallorossi.

The Serie A transfer window is set to open on January 2, 2026, aligning with La Liga. A prominent transfer rumor making rounds is AC Milan’s approach to Liverpool regarding a potential January move for defender Joe Gomez. Milan is reportedly exploring several defensive options as they aim to strengthen their squad for a tight title race. While Milan has also reportedly lined up the signing of Niclas Fullkrug, who has already been training with the team, his official unveiling awaits the formal opening of the transfer window. Meanwhile, Chelsea is reportedly preparing a substantial €60 million bid for Atalanta’s highly-rated 17-year-old center-back, Honest Ahanor, indicating significant interest in young Italian talent.

Serie A: Nkunku's Brace Lifts Milan and Gomez Linked with Rossoneri

Bundesliga: Bayern’s Rout and Frankfurt’s Early January Signings

The German Bundesliga concluded its 2025 fixtures with some dominant displays before heading into its traditional winter break, with the transfer window opening today, January 1, 2026. Bayern Munich showcased their formidable strength by defeating Heidenheim 4-0 on December 21, 2025. The goals for the Bavarians came from Josip Stanisic, Michael Olise, Luis Díaz, and a late strike from star striker Harry Kane, who continued his impressive scoring run. This victory solidified Bayern’s position at the top of the league. Another notable result from the last round of matches saw Bayer Leverkusen secure an important 3-1 away win against RB Leipzig on December 20. Leipzig’s Xaver Schlager opened the scoring, but Leverkusen responded with goals from Martin Terrier, Patrik Schick, and a late strike from Montrell Culbreath to claim all three points.

The Bundesliga’s winter transfer window is officially open, and clubs are already making moves. Eintracht Frankfurt has been particularly active, confirming the transfers of two promising talents on January 1, 2026: Keita Kosugi for €6.5 million and Paul Love Arrhov for €4.6 million. These early confirmed deals highlight Frankfurt’s ambition to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season. Borussia Dortmund is also reportedly close to finalizing a new signing, while there have been rumors linking Bayern Munich’s Leon Goretzka with a move to Barcelona, though a January departure seems unlikely.

V. League (Vietnam): Seasonal Break and Past Blockbuster Transfers

The Vietnamese V.League 1 is currently in an extended break, with no recent match results to report. The league commenced its 64-day hiatus from November 24, 2025, and is scheduled to resume on January 27, 2026. This break allows the Vietnam U-23 national team to compete in the 2025 SEA Games and the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup. Consequently, there have been no significant match results from the “last round” in late December or early January.

While the V.League 1 transfer window is technically open, there are no currently dominating transfer rumors or confirmed deals specifically for January 1, 2026, in the same vein as the European leagues. However, the pre-season and earlier parts of the 2025-26 season saw considerable transfer activity. Notably, Ho Chi Minh City Police made a significant acquisition by signing central defender Matheus Felipe from Atlético Clube Goianiense for a reported €1 million, making him the league’s most expensive player at the time. Hanoi Club also secured the services of Willian Maranhão for €900,000, while Nam Dinh Steel Blue brought in Njabulo Blom for €950,000 and Mahmoud Eid for €600,000. These earlier “blockbuster” deals underscore the growing investment and ambition within Vietnamese football.