As festive football gives way to the chaos of the January transfer window, Premier League clubs will focus on strengthening their squads.
Whether it’s a title race, European qualification or a battle against relegation, new faces can make all the difference.
However, the January market is not easy to navigate.
It often takes a lot of money to attract top talent, and clubs usually look for players who are surplus to requirements elsewhere.
With that in mind, here’s a list of one player every Premier League club could target to strengthen their squad.
Arsenal
Sporty Viktor Gyokeres is in incredible form, with 47 goals in 47 league matches since leaving Coventry City in 2023. His hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League showed his quality. He could be the striker Arsenal need to realize their trophy ambitions.
Villa Aston
Tyler Dibling is the first U18 player with multiple goals this season in the PL. pic.twitter.com/nATYQga1A7
– StatMuse FC (@statmusefc) December 29, 2024
Central midfield has become a concern for Villa. One option for the Midlands is the promising Sunderland youngster Jobe BellinghamAlternatively, they could look for a winger with Leon Bailey struggling. that of Southampton Tyler Dibling would be a good option.
Bournemouth
Defensive reinforcements are essential. They could target Sheffield United Harrison Burrows, who can play at full-back or in midfield.
Brentford
With Rico Henry sidelined, left-back is a priority for the Bees. Sergio Reguilon is a natural left foot who could provide balance and quality until Henry returns. Morten Frendrup from Genoa is another versatile profile that could adapt well to Thomas Frank’s system.
Brighton
Brighton need to address their defensive vulnerabilities. that of Barcelona Andreas Christensen could be a wise addition, given his experience in the Premier League with Chelsea and the fact that he has only made one appearance in La Liga this season.
Chelsea
🚨 Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United are all interested in signing Liam Delap from Ipswich.
(Source: @MailSport) pic.twitter.com/GuP4ODgjZW
– Forward live news (@DeadlineDayLive) December 30, 2024
Manager Enzo Maresca has options, but the club have expressed interest in the 21-year-old Ipswich striker. Liam Delap. At the other end of the pitch, the former Leicester boss could look to sign a goalkeeper Mads Hermansen from his former club, Robert Sanchez not being at his best this season.
Crystal Palace
With Marc Guehi set to leave this summer, the Southampton club Taylor Harwood Bellis would be a smart deal in case the England international leaves in the near future. James McAtee lending could be another interesting activity.
Everton
Goals are Everton’s Achilles heel. Borja Sainztop scorer in the Championship this season with 15 goals, could provide the firepower they desperately need as they look to escape relegation.
Fulham
Fulham could use some additional options from the start. that of Brighton EvanFerguson needs to be minutes from the south coast, but other targets like West Brom Josh Maja could also provide valuable attacking depth.
JUST IN 🚨
“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 goal-scoring ability and mobility in attack, and has been an important player for his team.”
(@Fichajes_futbol) pic.twitter.com/DYMVkOINGC
– 9JAPLAYERS 🇳🇬🦅 (@9jaPlayersNews) December 30, 2024
Ipswich Town
Goalkeeper Arijanet Muric has struggled and Ipswich cannot afford mistakes in a relegation battle. Thomas Kaminsky from 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 could move into the Dutch market after spending significant time in the Eredivisie, Josip Sutalo Ajax could be an option for them.
Liverpool
Arne Slot could find a replacement for Andy Robertson, with the Scot having put in inconsistent performances this season. Bournemouth Milos Kerkez is a good choice at left back.
Manchester City
City’s poor run has highlighted the need for a defensive midfielder in Rodri’s absence. Real Sociedad Martin Zubimendi or that of Bayern Munich Joshua Kimmichwhose contract expires this summer, could be a transformative signing.
Manchester City mull January transfers, consider seven players 🤔
Adam Wharton and Joshua Kimmich would be among them 👀https://t.co/MumQ2rTRwq pic.twitter.com/nNITq5VSZV
– Mirror Football (@MirrorFootball) December 30, 2024
Manchester United
United could improve left-back position with Fulham Antonée Robinson. The USA international’s speed and attacking flair would fit well into their system, as would Rayan Aït Nouri wolves.
Newcastle United
Eddie Howe is still looking for a quality right winger. Xavi Simonsloaned to RB Leipzig, or Bayer Leverkusen Jeremy Frimpongcould be ideal.
Nottingham Forest
Versatility is key for Forest as they strive for a strong finish. Protecting Chris Wood is essential for Nuno Espirito Santo, so a striker – perhaps Spartak Moscow’s Manfred Ugalde – could work, he has scored 15 goals in 18 games this season.
Southampton
The Saints may need to start focusing on championship construction. Aston Villa’s Jaden Philogene would be a coup if they could get their hands on him, even
Tottenham
🚨 NEW: #Tottenham let’s not rule out trying to move forward for Johnny Cardoso in January.
Real Betis need around 20 million in transfer profits, and Cardoso is seen as someone who can help achieve that and could therefore be on the move in January. @samuelsonsilva 🥇 pic.twitter.com/idDkiB2hY7
– Spurs Connect (@Spurs_Connect) December 24, 2024
The Spurs have to do a lot of business in January. Targeting a new midfielder could be the priority, with Real Betis Johnny Cardoso online to act in the near future. Meanwhile, a bold bid for Nicholas Williams would immediately take care of replacing Heung-Min Son upon his departure.
Western Ham
With Jarrod Bowen injured against Liverpool, it might be time to buy cover this winter. Dibling would suit the Hammers, or McAtee is another option.
Wolves
With the worst defensive record in the league, the Wolves need leadership at the back end. Kevin Danso de Lens is watched by new head coach Vitor Pereira.
