Demba Ba was forced to refute claims linking him with a move to Manchester United this week. REUTERS

As the January transfer window kicks into gear, IBTimes UK rounds up the pick of this week's news, including Manchester United's striker chase, Liverpool's hunt for a central midfielder, and Arsenal's pursuit of a creative playmaker:

The agent of Barcelona defender Maxwell believes Arsenal are "normally always late" in entering negotiations for a player, after confirming the Brazilian is on the cusp of a move to Paris Saint-Germain. (IBTimes UK)

Anderlecht playmaker Lucas Biglia is unlikely to join Manchester United or Arsenal in January because the Belgium club do not have enough time to sign a replacement, according to the player's agent. (IBTimes UK)

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Liverpool and Newcastle are monitoring FC Twente striker Luuk de Jong but neither club has made an official approach, according to the Dutch striker's agent. (IBTimes UK)

The agent of Real Madrid midfielder Esteban Granero has confirmed the Spaniard could join Liverpool in the summer but refuted reports of interest from Arsenal. (IBTimes UK)

The agent of AZ Alkmaar star Rasmus Elm admits Manchester United's interest is very "flattering" and the player is "not closing any doors" regarding a move to England this month. (IBTimes UK)

Keisuke Honda's agent has quashed speculation linking the Japan international with a move to Liverpool or Arsenal. (IBTimes UK)

Newcastle United striker Demba Ba distanced himself from speculation linking him with a move to Manchester United, after a purported member of his management team revealed the champions had enquired after him. (IBTimes UK)

Chelsea have been encouraged in their pursuit of Racing Genk's Kevin de Bruyne after the player's agent confirmed the highly-rated winger was likely to leave Belgium at the end of the season. (IBTimes UK)

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