12pm deadline day news: Palace join chase for Watford star, Hull sign Italy international

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Our 12pm transfer round-up involves: Crystal Palace, Watford, Hull City, Celtic, Manchester United and West Bromwich Albion.

Hull City have secured the signing of Inter Milan defender Andrea Ranocchia on loan. The powerful centre back is a full Italy International, having won 21 caps for the Azzurri and is a high profile addition for Marco Silva’s relegation challenge fight.

The Sun are reporting that Crystal Palace are interested in Watford striker Odion Ighalo, who had looked set for a big money move to China with Changchun Yatai. The Nigerian international had a sensational first season in the Premier League last year, but has found form harder to come by this time round.

Watford’s Odion Ighalo

That doesn’t seem to have stopped Sam Allardyce from taking an interest, as he looks to bring in players that can help the Eagles in their relegation fight, while the Sun suggest Ighalo is having second thoughts about heading to China. Could he swap North London for South?

Celtic’s Moussa Dembele

Celtic striker Moussa Dembele is another with London links today, after taking a morning flight to England, according to the Mail, worrying news after reports that Chelsea are interested in making a £30 million-plus bid for the talented striker, but the Bhoys are insisting that the striker is merely undergoing scans on a knee injury. The Mail report says that Dembele is scheduled to meet Andy Williams, a knee specialist used by Celtic who is based in London. However, given the news, Hoops fans will be hoping Chelsea don’t firm up their interest.

Ashley Young will not be allowed to leave Manchester United this January, the Mirror reports. The former England international has found football hard to come by in recent weeks, and he had been linked with West Brom and China during the window. However, Jose Mourinho is happy to keep the 31-year-old at the club on account of his ability to cover a number of positions. Baggies boss Tony Pulis is now expected to give more opportunities to talented youngsters such as Jonathan Leko.