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Glasgow Rangers manager Michael Beale got Ibrox rocking with an excellent comeback victory in the Premiership on Thursday night, and it was crucial that the 42-year-old secured three points in his first match in charge.

There was a slight tactical tweak, with Beale deploying a fluid 4-3-1-2 which allowed for a much more direct attacking threat compared to the often rigid 4-3-3 that predecessor Giovanni van Bronckhorst usually adopted.

This change to the playing style will naturally call for more attacking options in the squad, and with Alfredo Morelos and Antonio Colak the only fit strikers available at the moment, the January transfer window could be a chance for Beale to strengthen in this area.

The Daily Record has claimed that Rangers are interested in Brighton and Hove Albion striker Deniz Undav, and he could form an excellent partnership with Morelos.

Dubbed “quality” by Ryan Adsett, Undav has scored just once this season across ten appearances, and having joined the Seagulls last January for £6m, a loan move is most likely for the German during the upcoming transfer transfer window.

Despite the 26-year-old’s lack of goals this term, his overall career goalscoring record is rather impressive, with the £20k-per-week striker netting 116 goals in 243 appearances at all levels. If he were given a regular run in the Rangers starting XI, he could well regain the form that he displayed at Belgian club Royal Union Saint Gilloise, where he scored 45 goals over the space of two seasons.

Although Morelos is adept at operating as a lone striker, having a partner to feed off of could be extremely beneficial, and Undav may well be the ideal partner for the Colombian, who has netted 116 times for the Light Blues.

The pair are both goalscorers, and if Beale has his sights set on catching Celtic at the summit of the Premiership table, his Rangers team needs more attacking options to take the burden off Colak and Morelos heading into 2023.

Chelsea have homed their sights on a fresh talent from the Brazilian Serie A following defeat in the pursuit of the prodigious Endrick, who penned a deal with Real Madrid several days ago.

What’s the word?

With Endrick slipping through the Blues’ fingers like sand, Athletico Paranaense forward Vitor Roque has been identified as the latest target for Chelsea owner Todd Boehly.

Brazilian outlet Globo have reported that Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are joined by Chelsea in the race to secure a budding star from a perpetual tank of talent stemming from Brazil. 

And with the 17-year-old holding a release clause of roughly €100m (£87.2m), it remains to be seen whether intrigue will ripen into concrete interest in his services. 

Blues’ own Martinelli 

Roque has made an excellent start to his professional career, scoring 14 goals and assisting five more across 51 matches for the Hurricane and Cruzeiro, with the teenager signing for the former earlier this year. 

Left-footed and clinical, Roque is already offering signs that he can blossom into one of the most devastating forwards in the business, utilising his pace and darting runs to bypass defences and wreak havoc. It is those qualities that have seen talent scout Jacek Kulig suggest he has “crazy potential”.

He can also play on the flank, offering a level of versatility that will serve him well when it comes to finding a place in the fold of the likes of Chelsea, with positional flexibility a sterling trait for those looking to reach the top.

He bears semblance to Gabriel Martinelli, who signed for Arsenal in a reported £6m deal in the summer of 2019, arriving as an 18-year-old prospect from Brazilian outfit Ituano and slowly integrating into a side that is now flourishing at the top of the Premier League table. 

Now rated at £52.3m, Martinelli has plundered five goals and two assists from 20 appearances for the Gunners this term, consequently receiving a call-up to Brazil’s 2022 World Cup squad for his efforts.

At Chelsea, Roque could emulate his compatriot’s success, forging his way into a side that is at the dawn of a new era, with Boehly succeeding Roman Abramovich as owner earlier this year.

And indeed, with Real Madrid’s purchase of Endrick, their chances of securing another young forward from Brazil are diminished with some of Europe’s most coveted outfits interested. 

Roque, who was hailed for his “natural prowess” by prominent analytical site Breaking The Lines, could find success at Stamford Bridge, following in the footsteps of Martinelli in taking the leap across the globe to London, and making steady gains under the watchful eye of Blues boss Graham Potter.

Liverpool have been linked with a move for Moises Caicedo since the summer and now a new update has emerged on the club’s pursuit of the player ahead of the January transfer window.

What’s the latest?

According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, Liverpool must meet a “big fee” to sign the Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder in 2023.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT:

“It’d be a big fee if Brighton were to consider selling him in January. I’m sure if Liverpool and Chelsea do firm up their interest in Caicedo, it’s a move that maybe the player will be interested in, but it would have to be on Brighton’s terms.”

It’d be a huge coup for Klopp

It is no secret that Liverpool are in need of reinforcements in the centre of the pitch with a number of young players already linked with a move to Anfield.

Both Jude Bellingham and Enzo Fernandez have been named as targets for the Merseyside club ahead of many contracts expiring next summer.

Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner – as it stands – are all set to part ways with the club as free agents in 2023, whilst Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and Thiago Alcantara reach the latter stages of their career.

As a result, the signing of Caicedo would be a huge coup for Jurgen Klopp and could be the youthful presence Liverpool are crying out for in midfield.

Over 14 Premier League appearances this season, the midfield monster has scored one goal and tallied up an 87% pass completion rate, as well as averaging 1.1 key passes, 1.4 interceptions, 3.1 tackles and six duels won per game.

Caicedo’s performances have led to high praise from all-time Premier League top goal-scorer Alan Shearer ahead of Ecuador’s World Cup clash with Qatar, as the BBC pundit hailed the midfielder as a “top player”:

“He’s going to be a top player and he could be one that really stands out. He’s only 21 and he’s the heartbeat of this young side.”

“He can do a little bit of everything, he’s athletic, he can tackle, he can pass, he can read the game. Scores one or two goals.”

With that being said, it will be interesting to see if Liverpool do make moves in the January transfer window and if they are willing to meet Brighton’s demand to secure the signing of Caicedo, which is thought to be in the region of £85m.

Manchester City will be looking to keep pace with Arsenal in the Premier League title race when they take on Everton at the Etihad on Saturday.

Pep Guardiola’s side have looked impressive in both of their games following the World Cup break, first defeating Liverpool in the Carabao Cup before sealing a 3-1 win against Leeds United earlier this week.

The Spanish manager has had to call upon a number of his fringe players and academy talents due to City’s stars progressing to various knockout stages in Qatar but he may revert to a full-strength side against Frank Lampard’s side on Saturday.

Here is how Football FanCast expects Guardiola to line his side up against the Toffees, with five changes from the team that started at Elland Road.

Ederson unsurprisingly keeps his place in between the sticks after coming back in for Stefan Ortega against Leeds.

There are three changes, as despite his impressive recent displays, Rico Lewis drops to the bench with Kyle Walker replacing him at right-back, while Joao Cancelo comes in for Nathan Ake on the left.

Aymeric Laporte also returns to the starting eleven in the heart of the defence to partner John Stones, with Manuel Akanji missing out after starting both of the last two fixtures.

Kevin de Bruyne and Rodri also keep their place in the midfield, while Ilkay Gundogan, who showed that he “can do it all” with his performances for Germany at the World Cup, is replaced by the more attack-minded Bernardo Silva.

After two assists against Leeds United, Jack Grealish deserves to keep his place on the left, but Phil Foden should get the nod on the right-hand side ahead of Riyad Mahrez.

Finally, Erling Haaland unsurprisingly starts again upfront, after becoming the quickest player to reach 20 Premier League goals with a brace at Leeds and he will be looking to continue his fine goalscoring form against the struggling Toffees.

Chelsea look set to complete the signing of Enzo Fernandez from Benfica for a club-record fee, according to Alex Crook.

What’s the word?

The midfielder, who played a starring role for Argentina at the World Cup, looks set to move to West London, with Chelsea paying a British-record transfer fee.

The 21-year-old won the Young Player of the Tournament award in Qatar, and is set for another move having only joined Benfica from River Plate at the start of the season.

Speaking on TalkSPORT, Crook shared details of the potential deal, and stated that he expects it to go through.

“The key here is the terms of the transfer fee. We know it’s going to be in excess of his £105m release clause,” he stated.

“But Chelsea, as I mentioned yesterday, want to pay in three installments to try and get round their FFP limitations.

“The final call is still to be made by the Benfica hierarchy. Enzo Fernandez has already agreed personal terms. He’s already checked out, basically, he thinks he’s played his last game for Benfica, but Scott Minto told us yesterday it wasn’t a particularly good performance, if it was his last game.

“I think this will happen but we’re just waiting for the final green light from Benfica.”

A big gamble?

Although his talent was on full display at the World Cup, the size of the fee is arguably excessive, considering the Argentine’s lack of experience.

Fernandez has played just 25 games for Benfica since his summer move, and even at River Plate he only made 53 senior appearances.

His value has shot up as a result of his national team displays, and he would slot straight into the Chelsea midfield with N’Golo Kante and Jorginho potentially leaving in the summer, but such a large deal for a 21-year-old does carry a risk of failure if he cannot live up to expectations.

Newcastle United transfer target James Maddison wants to be playing European football in order to boost his England chances, according to CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs.

The Lowdown: Endless Maddison rumours

In recent times, few players have been linked with a move to St James’ Park more intenstly than the 26-year-old, who could be looking to leave Leicester City.

Maddison has been a great servant for the Foxes, scoring 52 goals and registering 36 assists in 185 appearances, along with being described as ‘one of the best in the world’ at free-kicks by Kieran Trippier.

It remains to be seen whether Newcastle can get a January deal over the line for the 26-year-old, but a significant claim has now emerged in that regard.

The Latest: Maddison wants European football

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jacobs claimed that Maddison wants to join a club who are playing European football on a regular basis, which could be crucial for the Magpies in their pursuit of the player.

The journalist said:

“From Maddison’s point of view, we also have to consider whether a mid-season move comes at the right time for him. He’s coming back from this knee injury and he doesn’t know what he’s walking into.

“James Maddison sees himself as a Champions league footballer, and he believes, as I’m told, that Champions League football or at least regular European football will be the difference between being selected for England and not playing and being selected for England and playing.

“That’s a key consideration for him ahead of the next Euros and the 2026 World Cup.”

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The Verdict: Newcastle looking well set

In the past, a claim like this would have effectively ruled Newcastle out of the running, but they are now serious European contenders this season, as Eddie Howe continues to thrive as manager.

While a top-four finish is still a big ask, it would be a big disappointment if the Magpies didn’t qualify for Europe at all given their current position of third, and it could also potentially put paid to signing Maddison.

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However, the Leicester maestro may be willing to take a gamble and join Newcastle in January, backing himself to aid the Tynesiders’ European push between now and May.

Given the club’s vast wealth, they could go on to be regulars in the Champions League or Europa League for the foreseeable future, with Maddison perhaps playing a key part in the Howe revolution if PIF can lure him to St James’ Park.

Tottenham Hotspur have now stepped up their interest in Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Leandro Trossard, according to a new report.

The Lowdown: Interest in Trossard

Brighton have now made a habit out of identifying talented players and selling them on for a profit, with the likes of Marc Cucurella joining Chelsea for £60m, and interest has now started to grow in Trossard.

Chelsea were reported to have watched the Belgian earlier this season, and the player’s agent is even reported to have offered him to the Blues, as well as Liverpool, but Tottenham are now also in the mix…

The Latest: Spurs step up interest

According to a report from the Daily Mail, Antonio Conte wants to add the 28-year-old to his squad in the January transfer window, with the Brighton player in line to leave, given that his contract expires at the end of the season.

However, the Spurs manager may have to play a waiting game right up until deadline day, as the report indicates that a move will not have a chance until later this month.

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The Verdict: Get it done?

Lauded as ‘unreal’ by Rio Ferdinand earlier this season, the 24-time Belgium international is enjoying a fantastic 2022/23 season, smashing in seven goals and three assists in 16 Premier League games, including a hat-trick away at Liverpool, indicating his ability to perform in matches against the league’s best sides.

There is no doubt that Spurs could do with some more options in forward areas, given that there is currently no time span on when Lucas Moura will return from injury, while Dejan Kulusevski and Richarlison are also out.

Trossard has proven Premier League experience, unlike some of the other names being linked with moves to north London, such as Tete and Marcus Edwards, meaning that he would be able to hit the ground running, and make an instant impact in strengthening Tottenham’s bid for the top four.

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Manchester United won’t be signing Denzel Dumfries or Jeremie Frimpong this winter as they focus on handing Diogo Dalot a new contract instead.

What’s the word?

With the January transfer market open, the Red Devils may be looking to sign a new right-back with Aaron Wan-Bissaka potentially on his way out of the club.

With that in mind, the likes of Inter Milan defender Dumfries and Frimpong of Bayer Leverkusen have both been touted as possible targets this winter

However, it sounds as though United a more focused on tying Dalot to a new deal, as opposed to signing any established alternatives such as the two mentioned above.

Indeed, while talking on his YouTube channel, Romano said (11:13): “Manchester United, could be a possibility to go for a new backup right-back. But I don’t want to sell your dreams, don’t expect players like Dumfries or Frimpong.

“Maybe a different kind of player. Why? Because the priority for Man United is to extend in that position, of course, is to extend the Diego Dalot contract.”

Stick or twist?

United did actually trigger a contract extension for Dalot earlier this season, tying him to the club for another year when his deal has been set to expire in the summer.

However, as made clear by Romano, they are looking to offer him completely new terms as they push to get the player to commit his long-term future to the club.

Interestingly enough, Erik ten Hag may also feel as though a backup transfer isn’t quite as much of a priority right now either with Wan-Bissaka starring in the Manchester derby this weekend –  proving he is a capable deputy for Dalot who is currently injured.

With that in mind, it’s fair to say United fans should hold their breath in expectation of any new big-name right-back arriving at Old Trafford this January.

Manchester City recorded a remarkable comeback on Thursday night as they came from 2-0 down to beat Tottenham Hotspur at the Etihad.

Pep Guardiola’s side endured a frustrating first half which culminated in the north London side capitalising on a mistake by Ederson to open the scoring, with Dejan Kulusevski the beneficiary after Rodri couldn’t collect the City goalkeeper’s slack pass.

One quickly became two as Emerson Royal headed in after Harry Kane’s shot was parried, with City fans booing their side off after another lacklustre first half.

However, after a hairdryer treatment by Guardiola, the Citizens came out all guns blazing in the second half and were level after just 53 minutes, with Julian Alvarez and Erling Haaland both benefitting after good work from Riyad Mahrez.

The Algerian continued to torment Spurs’ backline and gave City a deserved lead when his strike beat Hugo Lloris at his near post before the winger rounded off an excellent three points late on by chipping the Frenchman after a mistake by Clement Lenglet.

Although Mahrez will dominate the headlines, there was another superb display from Rodri in the middle of the park.

Via Sofascore, the “world-class” Spaniard – as dubbed by notable analyst Statman Dave – would earn a strong 7.4/10 rating for his performance, which was the best of anyone on the pitch bar Mahrez (9.4) and Kulusevski (7.8).

During the 90 minutes, the former Atletico Madrid man would register a hugely impressive 119 touches of the ball, which was far and away the most of any player on the pitch.

Despite being known for his defensive abilities, the 26-year-old would contribute three key passes, two shots and eight successful long balls during the game, all of which were an increase on his season average of 1.2 key passes, 1.5 shots and 5.6 long balls per game.

However, he would also do a stellar job at the back, contributing three tackles in the 90 minutes, which again was an increase on his average of 2.2 per game in the Premier League so far this term.

World-class performances from midfield have become the norm for Rodri but he truly stepped up in the absence of Kevin De Bruyne on Thursday evening, emphasising his quality on the ball as he excelled in possession.

Therefore, while Mahrez will take the plaudits after his goal contributions in the second half, a lot of credit must go to Rodri after another superb display for Guardiola.

Leeds United’s search for a midfielder has been long-documented, however, the exact role that player is expected to feature in remains somewhat cloudy.

This confusion stems from the varying profiles of those being touted with moves, looking to Azzedine Ounahi as the most obvious example as a top target.

The Moroccan has been linked with a move to Elland Road for the bulk of January and boasts a varied skillset that focuses on a masterful transition.

He showcases this through his 1.3 tackles and one interception pair game which he pairs with 1.1 key passes too (via Sofascore). This, whilst ranking in the top 1% for dribbles completed when compared to other midfielders in Europe paint the picture of a maestro who can break up the play, burst forward with the ball at feet and then slide a teammate through on goal.

It is clear why his qualities are desired, so to also reportedly be after Morten Hjulmand is somewhat confusing. 

Battling with Southampton for the Denmark international, who value him at £8.5m, the Lecce stopper is a far more defensive asset and would not represent an alternative should the Ounahi deal fall through.

The 23-year-old is averaging 2.5 tackles and 2.1 interceptions per game, which he pairs with 5.3 total duels won too, via Sofascore.

Such is his play style, he was lauded as “tough” by Danish journalist Henrik Fallesen.

The only explanation for their interest in two midfielders with vastly differing skill sets is that Jesse Marsch is keen on both, and seeks to put the two together to form a fine partnership despite the presence of Tyler Adams and Marc Roca.

In all honesty, this seems like a remarkable piece of business on paper should both transfers be completed, given how Ounahi excelled next to a midfield destroyer at the World Cup in Sofyan Amrabat.

Hjulmand could more than fill that role, allowing his potential teammate added security with which he can showcase his more creative assets.

With the former occupying a deeper and more calming role, the all-action nature of the 22-year-old would give Leeds a remarkable foundation from which to build their pressing system.

Victor Orta must in fact be looking for multiple options rather than multiple alternatives, indicating a potential grandstand finish to this transfer window for the Yorkshire outfit.