Just over two weeks have passed since the January transfer window opened, and Championship clubs have already been busy. Mid-season strengthening may be the difference between survival and promotion between now and May.
Although there has been movement in the transfer market, Leeds United has not yet confirmed any acquisitions. Between now and January 31, loan agreements are anticipated, and defense reinforcements are planned. Luke Ayling and Darko Gyabi are two examples of the players Daniel Farke cut loose on loan; more could be added shortly.
However, as the Whites search for openings, their opponents in the Championship are also doing the same, and some have already added more players. Here’s a summary of some significant actions along with some intriguing rumors.
1. Fabio Carvalho – Hull City (loan)
The 21-year-old decided to join Tyler Morton at the MKM Stadium amid interest from a number of Championship rivals, including Southampton and Leicester City.
2. Luke Ayling – Middlesbrough (loan)
Called time on a seven-and-a-half-year spell at Leeds United for more regular football at the Riverside Stadium. Will become a free agent in the summer.
3. Jeremy Sarmiento – Ipswich Town (loan)
Brighton recalled the winger from his loan at West Brom before sending him to the promotion-chasing Tractor Boys.
4. Ike Ugbo – Sheffield Wednesday (loan)
Recalled from his loan spell at Cardiff by French side Troyes and sent straight back out to join Danny Rohl at Hillsborough.
5. Joe Rothwell – Southampton (loan)
The 29-year-old is hoped to bring experience for Southampton’s promotion push.
6. Ben Johnson – Leeds United (rumour)
The Athletic are one of several outlets to cite Leeds’ interest in Johnson but it is unclear how willing West Ham are to lose their full-back. Southampton also linked, as are Spanish outfit Real Betis.
7. Amad Diallo – Sunderland/Leicester/Middlesbrough (rumour)
Plenty of Championship interest in the Manchester United winger after an excellent season with Sunderland. The Black Cats are keen on a return, but Leicester are also interested and Michael Carrick could use club connections to get him at Middlesbrough.
8. Stefano Sensi – Leicester (rumour)
Fabrizio Romano reports that the Foxes ‘really want’ the midfielder but would need to sell before buying.
9. Devante Cole – Hull/Huddersfield/Cardiff
The son of Andy Cole has 15 goals for Barnsley this season and is of interest to several Championship clubs, according to Sky Sports. Current contract expires in the summer.
10. Charlie Cresswell – Blackburn/Millwall (rumour)
Has been left out of the Leeds squad by Daniel Farke due to issues with mentality. Alan Nixon has cited Rovers with ‘serious’ interest. A return to the Den, where he spent last season on loan, is also possible.
11. Alfie Gilchrist – Millwall (rumour)
The 20-year-old could leave Chelsea on loan this month and has a good relationship with Lions boss Joe Edwards.
12. Conor Coventry – Sheffield Wednesday (unlikely)
The Star reported Wednesday’s interest in the midfielder who held talks over a permanent switch. A move to Charlton Athletic looks more likely, however.
13. Neco Williams – Leeds (unlikely)
Liked by Leeds and an international teammate of Ethan Ampadu, Dan James and Joe Rodon. But The Athletic insist Nottingham Forest want to keep him at the City Ground, at least for this season.
14. Isaac Hayden – Preston/Birmingham/Blackburn/Wednesday/Plymouth (unlikely)
The midfielder is of interest to several Championship sides but did play for Newcastle on Saturday amid an ongoing injury crisis.
15. Divin Mubama – Sunderland/West Brom (unlikely)
Championship pair join Everton in monitoring the young striker but any move will be in the summer, not January. He is needed at West Ham amid an injury crisis.
