Transfer News: United announce Carrick, Spurs hijack Gallagher move

Top January transfer rumours: Real Madrid eye Jürgen Klopp, Tottenham agree £34m Gallagher deal, Man Utd appoint Carrick, Barça re-sign Cancelo.

Michael Carrick takes over at Manchester United until the end of the season as the caretaker manager following the departure of Ruben Amorim. (Photo credit: Sky Sports)

It's that time of the season, the January window, where we hear strange things and even stranger deals. Here are the top five stories making the rounds in the transfer world.

Real Madrid considers Jürgen Klopp for vacant role.

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is a shock candidate for the vacant managerial role at Real Madrid following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso on Monday.

While the former Borussia Dortmund manager insists on not taking any club football role after exiting Liverpool, the Real Madrid job looks too good to ignore. Alvaro Arbeloa takes charge for now, but we keep an eye on the long-term appointment.

Tottenham to sign Gallagher

Tottenham Hotspur has gotten the green light from Atletico Madrid in their hot pursuit of England midfielder Connor Gallagher; the deal will cost the Europa League winners £34m.

It became necessary for Spurs to hit the market after Rodrigo Bentancur got injured on a long-term basis, and Yves Bissouma continues to be axed from the club. Gallagher's recruitment is expected to be finalised ahead of the weekend.

Manchester United agrees Carrick deal.

Former Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick will take over at the helm until the end of the season following the sacking of Ruben Amorim.

The former Middlesbrough manager has agreed on a deal till the end of the season, and his task is to stabilise the club and help them up the ladder as high as they can get this season.

Barcelona confirms Joao Cancelo signing.

FC Barcelona has confirmed the signing of Joao Cancelo from Al Hilal, with the Spanish giants paying €4 to cover the Portuguese's salary.

Cancelo joined Barcelona from Manchester City after falling out of favour with Pep Guardiola, but the Camp Nou landlords couldn't secure his services long-term, so he left for the Saudi league, and now he is back in La Liga with the league leaders.

Roma pushing for Malen deal.

AS Roma has intensified their move for Aston Villa forward Donyen Malen following the indifferent form of Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson.

The Ireland striker has been ruled out long-term after his injury at the weekend, and Roma now wants former Arsenal youth star Donyen Malen as a replacement. Aston Villa will now decide if they're willing to let the Dutchman leave this winter.