Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal have Kroupi plan; Chelsea get Nico Paz decision; Man Utd in Carrick U-turn

Live transfer roundup: Arsenal eye Kroupi; Chelsea's Paz pursuit stalls as Como refuse to sell; Man Utd back Carrick despite recent losses.

A busy day in the transfer market as the January window approaches. Arsenal are preparing a bid for Bournemouth youngster Eli Junior Kroupi, though their interest in Julian Alvarez appears to have ended. Chelsea have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Nico Paz, with Como unwilling to sell the attacking midfielder mid-season despite boss Xabi Alonso's admiration. Real Madrid hold an €80 million buy-back option for summer 2027, further complicating any potential deal.

Manchester United have decided to retain Michael Carrick as manager in a surprise U-turn, with financial considerations cited as the main reason despite recent heavy defeats to Bournemouth (3-0) and Como (4-1). An unnamed player in the dressing room expressed the sentiment that the squad wants to "put it right". Tottenham are targeting Kroupi as their dream striker signing for January, while Liverpool are also pursuing Alex Scott, whom Chelsea value at over £100 million. PSG are advancing contract negotiations with Desire Doue, dealing a setback to Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City's interest in the France winger.