Transfer news LIVE: Man Utd 'to appoint' Carrick, Real Madrid axe Alonso, Spurs' £35m deal, Arsenal latest

Manchester United are closing in on an interim boss after a week with Michael Carrick set to return whilst ex-Liverpool man Xabi Alonso has left Real Madrid and Tottenham pursue Conor Gallagher

This January the biggest changes have been happening in the dugout rather than on the pitch with Real Madrid the latest club to make a change - moving on Xabi Alonso.

The Spaniard follows Ruben Amorim and Enzo Maresca in losing their jobs in 2026 with the ex-Liverpool player leaving after Real's Spanish Super Cup defeat to Barcelona.

At Old Trafford, Michael Carrick is closing in on the interim role after getting the nod ahead of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. It is understood that some of the senior United players went to the hierarchy and made it clear they didn't have the confidence in the Norwegian to get them back on track.

Tottenham meanwhile are making moves to bring Conor Gallagher back to England as they negotiate a £35m deal with Atletico Madrid. Aston Villa were also keen but it appears the north Londoners have edged ahead in the race. Elsewhere in London, West Ham ace Lucas Paqueta has told the club he wants to leave the capital and return to his homeland.

Mirror Football will keep you across all the speculation, rumours and done deals.

06:28Matt Maltby

Tottenham leading race for Gallagher

Tottenham are closing in on the signing of Atletico Madrid star Conor Gallagher.

Mirror Football revealed yesterday that Spurs stepped up their pursuit for the former Chelsea midfielder despite strong interest from Premier League rivals Aston Villa.

And the north Londoners are on the brink of agreeing a transfer worth around £34.7million, with Villa never striking a formal deal with the Spanish giants.

It's understood Atletico preferred to sell the 25-year-old permanently this month rather than a loan with a view or obligation to buy in the summer.

Gallagher has struggled for regular first-team action under Diego Simeone this season, making just four starts in the league, and he is now keen on a return to the Premier League.

06:28Samuel Meade

Alonso gone at Real

Real Madrid have removed Xabi Alonso from his role - just seven months after he became their head coach.

All has not been well during his tenure and, after the Spanish Super Cup loss, he's left his gig with Alvaro Arbeloa coming in to replace him.

Safe to say it has not gone well for one of Europe's most highly-rated young managers.

06:28Samuel Meade

Morning

We're back to bring you all the latest after yet more managerial changes late on Monday night!

Stay tuned as we bring you the fallout, the news, gossip and any done deals.