25 January 2024 , 07:30
755
0
With the deadline day less than a week away, football clubs across the country are rushing to finalise their last-minute deals.
EFL clubs have until 11pm on February 1 to wrap up their business before the window closes - but will some run out of time?
Here's a look at today's top transfer news from the Championship, League One and League Two, along with insights from our EFL72 team. And while you're here, don't forget to sign up for our EFL newsletter for daily updates throughout the transfer window and beyond...
Leeds keep tabs on Liverpool defender
Leeds United are reportedly keeping an eye on Liverpool's Nat Phillips as the Reds plan to loan out the defender again.
According to the Daily Mail, Cardiff City and Blackburn Rovers are both interested in the 26-year-old, who was recalled from his loan at Celtic this month due to a lack of game time.
Chelsea complete record-breaking Enzo Fernandez transfer after deadline day rush
However, Leeds are also said to be monitoring the centre-back, who impressed for Liverpool in their injury-hit run to secure a top-four finish in 2020/21.
EFL72 says:"A centre-back isn't necessarily the highest of priorities for Leeds but they do need depth at the back and the Whites' financial power is limited this month by FFP concerns. So it makes sense that they look to the loan market - and a centre-back could free up players to play in other positions."
Palace eye £15m Championship swoop
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace have lodged a £15 million bid for Adam Wharton, Blackburn's midfield player Adam Wharton, Mirror Football understands. The Eagles have shown interest since his debut in August 2022 and are poised to make an offer soon.
Three Premier League teams - Newcastle, Wolves and Brighton - have shown interest in Wharton. Yet, Palace's offer appears to be the biggest yet for Rovers' star player.
EFL 72 says:"Wharton has been integral for Rovers so far this season and they will be disappointed to lose such an asset to their squad. However, he is still just 19 and an offer in that sort of price range could tempt the ownership into a sale."
West Brom keen on Celtic star
The Daily Mail suggests that West Brom are looking to sign Celtic midfielder Liel Abada, with Watford, Southampton, and French and German clubs also showing interest. However, Brendan Rodgers, the team manager, does not plan on letting the player go this month.
There are also whispers of The Baggies considering a move for another Celtic member - Mikey Johnston.
EFL72 says:"West Brom are on a promotion push at the moment in the Championship and will need reinforcements if they are to continue their climb towards the top in the second half of the season. Both players have impressed north of the border but whether they can convince Celtic to let them go is a different question."
Liel Abada is wanted by West BromCoventry midfielder attracting Premier League interest
Luton are reportedly eyeing Coventry midfielder Ben Sheaf, according to TeamTalk. The 25-year-old has netted four times in 23 games this season. Despite interest from Premier League clubs, it's believed that Coventry won't be entertaining any offers for Sheaf in this window as they aim for promotion.
Everton chiefs face transfer backlash from fans after deadline day disaster
Birmingham City close to landing South Korea international
Birmingham City are rumoured to be keen on South Korea international Paik Seung-ho. Korean reports suggest that the Blues are leading the race to sign the 26-year-old, who currently plays for Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in the K League.
Despite interest from top French and German clubs, Sports Donga claims the Blues are close to securing Paik on a deal until 2026.
League One news
Wigan have been dealt a blow with Callum Lang requesting to leave the club this month.
The 25-year-old vice-captain has been a key player this season. However, with interest from Portsmouth and Derby, manager Shaun Maloney confirmed to Wigan Today: "He wants to go to another club."