With a week or so left in the January transfer window, teams are hustling to get deals done so that they don’t leave it late. We’ve already seen some big-money moves this summer – Virgil van Dijk and Philippe Coutinho for instance – but we could yet see some moves that could define the season for some of the mid-table and the lower table clubs.
Here are some of the Premier League clubs who could be busy in the coming days…
#3 Newcastle United
The Magpies recently signed Kenedy on loan from Chelsea and could add a few more fresh faces. The Magpies have done well with a limited squad which is a testament to Rafa Benitez’s ability as a manager. Although they could yet survive, the club need to back their manager to ensure he stays on beyond the current season.
With a takeover in the pipeline, it’s going to be a crucial few weeks for the Magpies. While there have been talks of signing a new striker – Islam Slimani being the latest name to be linked — don’t be surprised it the club add more than just the one player.
#2 Arsenal
Where to even begin? After the recent swap deal where Alexis Sanchez left for Old Trafford while Henrikh Mkhitaryan packed his bags for the Emirates, Arsenal have sort of limited the damage. Though Mesut Ozil could yet leave for free, Mkhitaryan’s arrival could work out well for the team.
Having said that, Arsene Wenger still has a few areas to work on. The need for a defensive midfielder and a centre-back is obvious, but for some reason, the Gunners have been linked with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Of course, the fans won’t be complaining if they sign Aubameyang, but if they are to challenge the top four, they need a more balanced squad.
Lest we forget, the Gunners were dumped out of the FA Cup and with to win the Europa League and stay competitive in the Premier League, they need a deeper squad.
#1 Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs have been inactive thus far but like the summer transfer window, they could get a few shrewd deals done in time before the window closes. Though many feel they have been shackled by the stadium construction, in a way, it helps them scout for the best of the best, something they managed to do with Davinson Sanchez.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side tend to come alive around this time of the season, but things might be different this season. While the two Manchester clubs have done better than anyone else, it seems like Chelsea and Liverpool have just a bit more than Tottenham who are too heavily reliant on Harry Kane’s goals this season. So, the need to add more depth is imperative.