The January transfer window is now officially open, presenting a pivotal mid-season opportunity for all 20 Premier League clubs to address their squad needs. While some teams are desperate for reinforcements in their battle for survival, even league leaders Arsenal are expected to be active despite their commanding position.
Title Challengers and European Hopefuls
Arsenal, who sit top of the table, have a clear priority: defensive cover. Injuries to key players like Riccardo Calafiori and Declan Rice have highlighted a potential weakness. Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet is identified as a potential target, offering a solution for both the present and the future, though competition from other English clubs is anticipated.
Their closest rivals, Manchester City, could make a significant move for Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo. A fee in the region of £65 million is mooted, which would be seen as a shrewd investment to bolster an already formidable attack in their pursuit of silverware.
Further down the table, Liverpool are in the market for a new centre-back following Giovanni Leoni's season-ending ACL injury. Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi is a player of interest, but a January deal appears complicated, with a summer exit seeming more probable.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are likely to save a marquee midfield signing for the summer. However, a more affordable January option could be pursued, with former academy graduate James Garner mentioned as a candidate who offers quality, a reasonable price, and familiarity with the club.
The Battle for Survival and Mid-Table Ambition
At the opposite end of the spectrum, clubs fighting relegation face critical decisions. Burnley, reeling from Josh Cullen's ACL injury, need midfield reinforcements. A loan move for Liverpool's experienced Wataru Endo could suit their strategy of avoiding expensive permanent gambles.
Wolves, who require a miracle to stay up, may already be planning for life in the Championship. With striker Jorgen Strand Larsen expected to depart, a move for MLS goal machine Sam Surridge, who netted 24 times in 2025, could be a forward-looking acquisition.
In the crowded mid-table, Aston Villa seek more depth in attack, with Newcastle's William Osula a possible target. Brentford may look to strengthen in central midfield, with Feyenoord's Quinten Timber – brother of Arsenal's Jurrien – on their radar as they plan for potential departures.
Other Notable Moves Across the League
Chelsea's immediate focus is appointing a new manager after Enzo Maresca's departure, with Liam Rosenior the front-runner. Player sales and loans are expected to follow. Tottenham, with funds freed by Brennan Johnson's sale to Crystal Palace, are in the market for a forward, with Cameroon's Karl Etta Eyong an option.
Everton are hunting for a new striker, with Ivan Toney likely too expensive, making Celta Vigo's Jorgen Strand Larsen a more plausible target. West Ham are also prioritising a striker, and could even sign two, with Lazio's Taty Castellanos a name in the frame.
As the window progresses, the strategies of these clubs will become clearer. For some, it's a chance to push for glory; for others, it's a fight for Premier League survival. The business conducted in January could well define the second half of the 2025/26 season.
