As football’s festive fixtures give way to the chaos of the January transfer window, Premier League clubs will turn their attention to bolstering their squads.
Whether it’s for a title push, European qualification, or a battle against relegation, fresh faces can make all the difference.
However, the January market isn’t easy to navigate.
Big money is often required to lure top talent, and clubs typically look for players who are surplus to requirements elsewhere.
With that in mind, here’s a breakdown of one player each Premier League club could target to strengthen their squad.
Arsenal
Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres has been in incredible form, with 47 goals in 47 league games since moving from Coventry City in 2023. His hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League showcased his quality. He could be the striker Arsenal need to complete their trophy-chasing ambitions.
Aston Villa
Tyler Dibling is the first U18 player with multiple goals this PL season. pic.twitter.com/nATYQga1A7
— StatMuse FC (@statmusefc) December 29, 2024
Central midfield has become a concern for Villa. One option for the Midlands is Sunderland’s promising youngster Job Bellinghamalternatively, they could look for a winger with Leon Bailey struggling. Southampton’s Tyler Dibling would be a good option.
Bournemouth
Defensive reinforcements are essential. They could target Sheffield United’s Harrison Burrows, who can play at the back or in midfield.
Brentford
With Rico Henry sidelined, left-back is a priority for the Bees. Sergio Reguilon is a natural left-footer who could provide balance and quality until Henry’s return. Morten Frendrup from Genoa is another versatile profile who may fit Thomas Frank’s system well.
Brighton
Brighton need to address their defensive vulnerabilities. Barcelona’s Andreas Christensen could be a smart addition, given his Premier League experience with Chelsea and the fact that he has made just one appearance in LaLiga this term.
Chelsea
🚨 Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United are all interested in signing Liam Delap from Ipswich.
(Source: @MailSport) pic.twitter.com/GuP4ODgjZW
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) December 30, 2024
Manager Enzo Maresca has options, but the club has shown interest in Ipswich’s 21-year-old striker Liam Delap. At the other end of the pitch, the former Leicester boss could look to recruit a goalkeeper Mads Hermansen from his former club, with Robert Sanchez not being at his best this term.
Crystal Palace
With Marc Guehi almost moving on in the summer, Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis would be a sensible bit of business in case the England international leaves in the near future. James McAtee on loan could be another decent bit of business.
Everton
Goals are Everton’s Achilles heel. Borja Sainzthe top scorer in the Championship this season with 15 goals, could provide the firepower they desperately need as they look to break away from the relegation scrap.
Fulham
Fulham could use additional options up front. Brighton’s Evan Ferguson is in need of minutes away from the South Coast, but other targets like West Brom’s Josh Maja could also bring valuable attacking depth.
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“Ipswich Town, Bournemouth and Southampton are in the race to sign West Bromwich Nigerian Striker 🇳🇬Josh Maja.
The 26-year-old is known for his ability to score goals and mobility in attack, he has been an important player for his team”
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Ipswich Town
Goalkeeper Arijanet Muric has struggled, and Ipswich can’t afford mistakes in a relegation scrap. Thomas Kaminsky of Luton, who looked solid in the Premier League last season, would be an excellent replacement.
Leicester City
Leicester need defensive stability under Ruud van Nistelrooy and the Foxes’ head coach may dip into the Dutch market having spent a lot of time in the Eredivisie, Josip Sutalo of Ajax could be an option for them.
Liverpool
Arne Slot could source a replacement for Andy Robertson, with the Scotsman putting in inconsistent performances this term. Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez is a good choice at left-back.
Manchester City
City’s poor run has highlighted their need for a defensive midfielder in the absence of Rodri. Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi or Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmichwhose contract expires this summer, could be transformative signings.
Manchester City are pondering January transfers and have seven players under consideration 🤔
Adam Wharton and Joshua Kimmich are said to be among them 👀https://t.co/MumQ2rTRwq pic.twitter.com/nNITq5VSZV
— Mirror Football (@MirrorFootball) December 30, 2024
Manchester United
United could improve their left wing-back position with Fulham’s Antonee Robinson. The US international’s speed and attacking flair would fit well into their system, as would Rayan Ait Nouri from Wolves.
Newcastle United
Eddie Howe is still in search of a quality right winger. Xavi Simmonson loan at RB Leipzig, or Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpongcould be ideal.
Nottingham Forest
Versatility is key for Forest as they push for a strong finish. Protecting Chris Wood is key for Nuno Espirito Santo so a striker – perhaps Manfred Ugalde of Spartak Moscow – could work, he has netted 15 goals in 18 games this term.
Southampton
The Saints may have to start shifting their focus to building for the Championship. Aston Villa’s Jaden Philogene would be a coup if they could get hold of him, even
Tottenham
🚨 NEW: #Tottenham do not rule out trying to advance for Johnny Cardoso in January.
Real Betis needs around 20 million in profits in transfers, and Cardoso is seen as someone who can help provide that, and therefore could be on the move in January. @samuelsonsilva 🥇 pic.twitter.com/idDkiB2hY7
— Spurs Connect (@Spurs_Connect) December 24, 2024
Spurs need to do a lot of business in January. Targetting a new midfielder may be the priority, with Real Betis’ Johnny Cardoso in line to make a move in the near future. Meanwhile, an audacious bid for Nico Williams would immediately sort out their replacement for Heung-Min Son when he departs.
West Ham
With Jarrod Bowen hobbling off injured against Liverpool, it may be time to buy some cover this winter. Dibling would suit the Hammers, or McAtee is another option.
Wolves
With the league’s worst defensive record, Wolves need leadership at the back. Kevin Danso from Lens is being eyed up by new head coach Vitor Pereira.
