Here we go; the winter transfer window is officially open, with European teams vying to bolster their weak spots.
But which talents are available, and who’s most likely to make a transfer move? Let’s take a look at the top 10 players on this winter’s shopping list.
Jadon Sancho, Manchester United
Sorry, Jadon. Erik ten Hag is still hanging by a thread from his tenure at Manchester United. Until he’s a goner, you’ll be sticking to the bench for never making a rapprochement with the Dutch manager.
The 23-year-old is currently training with United’s academy team for punishment. He criticized the boss on social media in September and never made up. So it’s probably best for the £73million winger to move on to start fresh. But who’s interested in the England international?
Sancho’s £250,000-a-week wages are hefty for any club, even the richest. But he could return to Dortmund, where he blossomed, or go to Spain or even Saudi Arabia.
Ivan Toney, Brentford
With Arsenal on a two-game losing streak to close out 2023, it’s clear what they need to get back up to the top spot: better finishing. Ivan Toney could be Arsenal’s £100million man to fill that hole. But will Arteta’s money manager mogul Stan Kroenke provide the funds?
The Gunners could make the decision easier if they offload player(s) first, starting with Eddie Nketiah, and sweetening the pot with Reiss Nelson or Smith Rowe. Is it worth taking a £100million “gamble” on Toney or eke it out for a more dependable striker, a la Victor Osimhen?
Victor Osimhen, Napoli
Victor Osimhen is undoubtedly at the top of Premier League giant wishlists this January, but will Chelsea, Tottenham, or Arsenal break the bank for his services? The bagsman spearheaded Napoli’s Serie A title run last season, scoring 26 goals.
He’s got 7 in just 13 games this season, with Gli Azzurri falling down the table. Is it time for Napoli to cash in and Osmihen to move on? The Nigerian’s contract expires in June 2026. If he doesn’t move this winter window, Chelsea or Arsenal could negotiate a pre-agreement ahead of a summer move.
Kalvin Phillips, Manchester City
What must Kalvin Phillips do to get a game at Manchester City? Pep Guardiola brought in the England international from Leeds United in 2022 with much promise. But the Spaniard is also a brutal boss. Phillips has only suited up for 89 minutes and zero starts this 23/24 season.
The midfielder could be on his way out with a possible loan to Serie A giants Juventus. Newcastle and PSG are also interested, but those clubs are deep in the middle. A move to Crystal Palace, a sure starting home for him, could be Phillips’s best to ensure his place on Gareth Southgate’s team for the Euros next summer.
Conor Gallagher, Chelsea
Mauricio Pochettino’s side is still a work in progress, with the Blues again struggling this season despite Boehly’s billion-dollar spending. But one player has stood out: Conor Gallagher. The Chelsea captain (on more than one occasion) nonetheless remains linked to Tottenham, who would need to offer above the £60million threshold to strike his services.
Thomas Muller, Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich mainstay Thomas Muller is again on Manchester United’s wishlist for December. The Red Devils have been trying to pry him to England since 2019. Could this be their lucky moment? Probably not, since Muller extended his contract with Bayern Munich for an extra year last December.
Timo Werner, RB Leipzig
He may have struggled in the Premier League during his stint at Chelsea, but Timo Werner could do well to take another shot in England. And one club in particular is desperate for goals: Manchester United.
With the Red Devils needing goals, it’s no wonder the German striker is on their radar. He’s scored two in just eight games for RB Leipzig this term but could serve well to complement Rasmus Hojlund. Werner could be a building block on loan. Werner is also linked with Unai Emery’s side to help fill in for Ollie Watkins on the attack.
Aaron Ramsdale, Arsenal
Chelsea and Newcastle could be on the prowl for a new keeper, and Aaron Ramsdale fits the bill. The England international is out of favor at Arsenal, with David Raya taking the number one spot.
However, the Gunners will unlikely let the goalkeeper who helped guide them to Champions League football last season leave so soon. Given Raya’s struggles, Arsenal fans want to see Ramsdale back in goal. Unless, of course, a big offer comes along.
Jean-Clair Todibo, Nice
24-year-old center-back Jean-Clair Todibo is a rising star, even if the Frenchman didn’t cut it as Pique’s replacement at Barcelona.
The Frenchman is now at the top of wish lists for Tottenham, Manchester United, and Chelsea, who need defensive reinforcements.
Serhou Guirassy, Stuttgart
Serhou Guirassy could be the perfect filler for clubs unable to afford the hefty £100 million transfer of Ivan Tony or Victor Osimhen. The Stuttgart forward is enjoying a stellar season with 17 goals in 14 Bundesliga appearances.
With a $19.4 million release clause, the 27-year-old Guinean could be a steal for goal-stricken clubs like Manchester United.
