January Transfer Window 2026: What Every Premier League Club Needs
As the January 2026 transfer window approaches, Premier League clubs are weighing up their squads and addressing key needs.
Arsenal, having made reinforcements exceeding £250 million in the summer, are unlikely to make big moves in January. They may focus on loan signings, particularly needing cover at right-back, and may consider loaning out Ethan Nwaneri, who has featured just three times this season.
Aston Villa face financial constraints but aim to upgrade their frontline, having advanced a €12 million (£10.5 million) bid for Alysson. The club may end Harvey Elliott's loan spell should a permanent deal be pursued but are not expected to be aggressive in the window.
Bournemouth are preparing for the possibility that Manchester City will trigger a £65 million release clause for Semenyo, a scenario the club is ready for. With a 20% cut of future profits owed to Bristol City from a prior transfer, Bournemouth are targeting a centre-back, with Marcos Senesi a noted objective, and eyeing midfield and goalkeeping reinforcements following an injury to Tyler Adams.
Brentford, having made a £50 million profit in the summer, possess spending power but anticipate remaining passive. Potential January signings include Brennan Johnson or Matias Fernandez-Pardo. Meanwhile, Vitaly Janelt could sign a pre-contract with another club from 1 January. Quinten Timber and Kaloskamis have been mentioned as targets.
Brighton are looking to strengthen at right-back, central midfield, and forward. Despite reported interest from Manchester United, Baleba is expected to stay. Several senior players, including Welbeck, Veltman, Webster, and Milner, face contract expiries in the summer.
Burnley intend to address goal-scoring issues with a potential striker or attacking midfielder signing. Injuries, notably to captain Josh Cullen, may broaden their recruitment needs. The club is open to moving fringe players to manage wage costs.
Chelsea are unlikely to engage in significant January transfers. The focus will be on future development and monitoring youngsters like Jacquet and N’Guessan. They are actively seeking buyers for Axel Disasi and Raheem Sterling. After Levi Colwill's injury, coach Maresca had hoped for a centre-back addition. The priority remains on managing outgoings.
Crystal Palace require reinforcement at right-back, with Sacha Boey linked. They are considering moves for Brennan Johnson and targets like Marc Guéhi or Adam Wharton. Injuries to Chris Richards, Daniel Muñoz, and Daichi Kamada increase pressure to recruit.
Everton prioritize signing a goalscorer and improving full-back and midfield positions. Availability and form challenges persist, and Dan Neil is noted among possible departures. Chelsea have reportedly considered Sadiki but may change plans. Overall, Everton are focused on squad adjustments.
Clubs are balancing sporting needs with financial and regulatory considerations as January approaches.
