Premier League transfer window around the corner: Brighton eye Real Madrid’s Garcia

November 23, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

Early window positioning

With the mid-season window still weeks away, clubs are already trying to secure priority targets before prices climb. Brighton, who continue to rely on shrewd recruitment to stay competitive, are exploring a loan deal for Gonzalo Garcia, a 21-year-old striker at Real Madrid.

According to the Mail, Garcia is highly rated in Spain but blocked by senior competition, making a temporary move plausible. For Brighton, the appeal is clear: they need additional attacking depth, but a loan minimizes financial risk. Leeds and Sunderland are also monitoring the situation, though Brighton’s Premier League platform could make them the most attractive destination.

Manchester United, meanwhile, are pushing to strengthen their long-term attacking options. Journalist Florian Plettenberg reports that United now face rival interest from Borussia Dortmund for Kevin Filling, a 16-year-old Swedish forward from AIK. Dortmund’s reputation for nurturing young talent could complicate United’s pursuit, though the Premier League’s financial leverage may still hold sway.

Premier League clubs weigh their attacking needs

Liverpool are also attempting to get ahead of the market. Teamtalk reports that they are currently best placed to sign Antoine Semenyo, the Bournemouth forward who has developed into one of the league’s most versatile front-line players. Semenyo's pace and pressing ability suit Liverpool’s system, but Tottenham are considered potential challengers.

The Athletic notes that Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim admires Semenyo as well, though Bournemouth’s £65m release clause is a stumbling block. For a club trying to rebuild its squad without overspending in January, that price is difficult to justify.

Strikers in demand across Europe

Elsewhere, several clubs are assessing veteran forwards who could offer short-term solutions.

Italy’s Corriere dello Sport reports that AC Milan are weighing a move for Niclas Fullkrug, the 32-year-old West Ham striker who has reportedly been told he can leave in January. The German international offers strength and experience, traits Milan have lacked since Olivier Giroud’s departure, but his age raises questions about long-term value.

In another potential outgoing move, The i writes that West Ham, Everton and Roma are all considering Joshua Zirkzee, a 24-year-old Manchester United forward struggling for consistent game time. Zirkzee’s technical skill and mobility make him an interesting option for clubs needing a more creative striker, although his inconsistency may concern some decision-makers.

Spanish outlet Cadena SER reports that Barcelona are keeping tabs on Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace. Liverpool are still considered favorites, but Barcelona’s interest reflects how highly the England defender has risen over the past 18 months. Guehi’s ability to play out from the back suits both clubs, though Palace’s valuation is expected to be significant.

Meanwhile, Football Insider reports that Bayern Munich intend to keep Nicolas Jackson on loan for the rest of the season. Jackson has shown flashes of promise, and Bayern appear reluctant to disrupt their forward rotation midway through the campaign.

Managerial and contract decisions

Fulham are also trying to plan ahead. Sky Sports reports that Marco Silva has been offered a three-year contract extension, a sign of the club’s desire to maintain stability after a turbulent few seasons.

On the managerial market, Talksport says that former Liverpool development coach Vitor Matos has emerged as the leading candidate for the Swansea City job. His work at Marítimo in Portugal’s second tier has earned attention for its emphasis on youth development, a priority for Swansea's long-term strategy.

United’s internal decisions

Finally, according to Calciomercato, Manchester United’s discussions with Kobbie Mainoo over a contract extension have stalled. The 20-year-old midfielder is considering a loan move to Napoli in January, hoping for more regular minutes in a competitive environment. For United, losing him, even temporarily, would thin midfield depth, but a successful loan could accelerate his development.

ESPN reports that United previously rejected Chelsea’s attempt to include Romeo Lavia or Christopher Nkunku in the deal that brought Alejandro Garnacho to Stamford Bridge. United instead opted for a straightforward transfer fee, prioritizing financial clarity over potential player swaps.

Sources: Mail, Florian Plettenberg, Teamtalk, The Athletic, Corriere dello Sport, The i, Cadena SER, Football Insider, Sky Sports, Talksport, Calciomercato, ESPN.