Which Premier League Clubs Could Be Busy in the January Transfer Window?

Which Premier League clubs are likely to be active in the January transfer window? A club-by-club look at who may move and why.

The Premier League rarely gives clubs the luxury of waiting. This season, that is especially true.

With the table tightly packed and very few teams feeling settled, it is anticipated that this year’s January transfer window will be busier than usual.

Some clubs will move because they have to. Others will move because they think they can. A few will insist they are calm while quietly keeping options open.

Here’s how the landscape looks heading into the January transfer window.

Arsenal January transfer plans

Arsenal are top of the Premier League and the Champions League but may still feel slightly short.

Mikel Arteta has never framed January as a necessity, but he has consistently said the club will stay alert if the right player becomes available.

Injuries have tested that approach again this season. No Premier League side has dealt with more injuries over the past 18 months, and while key players are returning, the depth is still being stretched.

Viktor Gyokeres’ output has not quite matched expectations, and although Arsenal are unlikely to panic-buy, they will be monitoring attacking options.

However, with both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz now returning to full fitness, a move for a striker is highly unlikely.

Instead, they may look to improve their depth behind the midfield duo Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi.

But if the club’s recent history is anything to go by, perhaps fans should temper expectations – they have not made major January signings since 2023.

Manchester United January transfer strategy

Manchester United will be trying to resist the habits of their past.

Ruben Amorim has been clear that he does not want to rush into January signings simply to ease short-term pressure. The focus, publicly at least, is on internal solutions and protecting a longer-term plan.

That does not mean inactivity. United have injury issues, particularly in midfield, although an exit for Kobbie Mainoo shouldn’t be fully ruled out.

Reports are linking them to Ruben Neves and Conor Gallagher, but January may be as much about departures for United, contract clarity and positioning for summer as it is about new arrivals.

Manchester City January transfer outlook

Manchester City treat January differently to most clubs.

Pep Guardiola prefers signings that fit the club’s long-term direction rather than short-term needs, and he has often said it is better to assess properly at the end of the season.

City were busy last January – signing Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Nico Gonzalez – only because squad numbers forced their hand.

This time, the situation is calmer. That said, City are monitoring opportunities.

Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo looks set to join after rejecting an approach from Tottenham, showing that the club will act if a deal makes sense beyond the current season.

One certainty is stability in goal. Despite speculation, James Trafford is expected to stay, with Guardiola backing him as part of the club’s wider plan.

Liverpool January transfer window questions

Liverpool’s January may depend on fitness.

Alexander Isak’s injury will probably force their hand, and the club has never been opposed to January business when a clear need appears.

Their history – from Virgil van Dijk to Luis Diaz – shows a willingness to act decisively if the right player is available.

Interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi has not gone away, particularly with his contract situation unresolved. Liverpool were also keen on Semenyo before he ultimately chose Manchester City.

Arne Slot has played down concerns about attacking depth, but Liverpool rarely enter windows without a contingency plan. If the market opens up, they will be ready.

Chelsea January transfer plans

Chelsea’s January looks more about movement out than movement in.

Enzo Maresca has repeatedly avoided discussing targets, and the club’s focus appears to be trimming a bloated squad rather than adding to it. Several players made available in the summer remain in limbo.

Raheem Sterling’s situation is unresolved, complicated by wages and his preference to stay in London. Axel Disasi could attract renewed interest, while Tyrique George is pushing for regular football amid heavy competition.

Chelsea may not be loud buyers, but don’t expect them to be quiet altogether.

Aston Villa January transfer decisions

Despite the 4-1 defeat to Arsenal, Aston Villa are well placed in the league, but profit and sustainability rules continue to shape what they can do. Any incoming business may require sales first.

Unai Emery’s core players are settled and under contract, but fringe players and expiring deals create room for manoeuvre. Ross Barkley’s contract situation is one to watch if Villa decide to cash in.

Villa have already acted early, agreeing a deal for 19-year-old winger Alysson from Gremio, signalling that development and future planning remain part of their thinking even as results improve.