TRANSFER GOSSIP COLUMN: Man United target in-form Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy, Thomas Frank ‘reluctant’ to see Ivan Toney depart and West Ham are in for out-of-favour Chelsea defender

The countdown to the January transfer window is well and truly on, as clubs position themselves to nab key additions this winter. 

Manchester United are gearing up for a busy period with the promise of investment from Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who remains on the verge of completing his minority purchase in the club. 

The Red Devils have been linked with attacking players on the continent in the last few days but they could face competition from their Premier League rivals for a forward who can be relied upon to net on a regular basis. 

But Erik ten Hag‘s side aren’t the only outfit looking to address their roster issues after a lacklustre start to the campaign. 

Here, Mail Sport takes a look at all of the latest transfer news and gossip on Saturday morning.

Brentford are set to welcome back star striker Ivan Toney who has been out with suspension

Newcastle youngster Yankuba Minteh has been enjoying a productive loan with Feyenoord

United are reportedly interested in signing in-form Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy to provide competition for Rasmus Hojlund. The 27-year-old, who is also on Newcastle’s wishlist, has scored 15 goals from just 10 Bundesliga games this season. (Guardian).

The Magpies are considering recalling  their 19-year-old Gambian winger Yankuba Minteh from his loan spell in the Eredivisie with Feyenoord to help ease their injury crisis. (Telegraph).

Brentford boss Thomas Frank is reluctant to let star striker Ivan Toney leave the Community Stadium in the January transfer window amid intense interest from several top-flight clubs. (Evening Standard). 

West Ham are lining up a shock move for out-of-favour Chelsea defender Ian Maatsen. The 21-year-old has found game time hard to come by at Stamford Bridge this season after excelling on-loan at Turf Moor in Burnley’s successful Championship campaign last term. (Sun).

Rangers risk losing ex-Norwich winger Todd Cantwell after the 25-year-old was hooked before half-time by manager Philippe Clement in their disappointing 1-1 Europa League draw with Aris Limassol on Thursday. (Daily Record). 

Ian Maatsen has found game time hard to come by at Stamford Bridge this season after excelling on-loan at Turf Moor

Oscar Bobb has made four Premier League appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side this term

The 21-year-old Nico Williams has already earned 11 caps at international level for Spain

Juventus have begun contract talks with Arsenal and Man United target Dusan Vlahovic. The 23-year-old Serbian striker has two years remaining on his deal in Turin. (Gazzetta).

Manchester City are close to agreeing a new deal for their promising 20-year-old forward Oscar Bobb. (90 Min). 

Barcelona are not willing to pay the £43m release clause in Nico Williams’ contract. The 21-year-old Atletico Bilbao forward could be on the move this summer. (Mundo Deportivo). 

Tottenham are Brentford are set to compete for the signing of 20-year-old Belgium winger Johan Bakayoko from PSV in January. (Football Insider).