One Player Every Premier League Club Should Sign in the January 2025/26 Window

In the summer, Premier League clubs broke the bank, setting a new record of spending in a single transfer window, at over £3bn. Even for a single player, the record was broken by Liverpool in a deal worth £125m for Alexander Isak, also seeing the club spend a record £446m on transfers.

 

In January, it is expected to be a quiet transfer window for EPL clubs because of the amount that was spent in the summer; however, clubs may be forced to shell out due to potential outgoings or for position battles like the top four or relegation. 

 

When considering each club’s aims and situations, we have suggested one player that every EPL club should sign in January, who can stabilise and provide balance or bolster the overall squad. 

Arsenal - Davide Bartesaghi

Arsenal spent over £250 million in the summer, bringing in key signings Viktor Gyökeres, Martín Zubimendi and Eberechi Eze, but are not secure at the top of the table, so the Gunners may need to bring in one or two reinforcements. 

 

The player we believe Arsenal should sign in January is Davide Bartesaghi, who is a young left-back currently playing his football in Italy at AC Milan. Bartesaghi has emerged as one of Europe’s most talented left-backs, recently scoring a vital brace in AC Milan’s draw against Sassuolo on 14 December 2025. 

 

It has been reported that Arsenal have been tracking Bartesaghi, even rumoured to have scouted the youngster. He provides great attacking qualities and defensive attributes, which are essential for Mikel Arteta. Yes, Riccardo Calafiori and Miles Lewis-Skelly operate at the left-back position, but Lewis-Skelly is reportedly pushing for a move, as Thomas Tuchel said he needs to gain more minutes for a shot at being selected for the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

Aston Villa - Brennan Johnson

Unai Emery’s side has found themselves in a title race this season, but many pundits and critics are scrutinising Aston Villa’s chances of lifting the EPL trophy. Villa is lacking depth in the forward department, in need of versatile options from the bench who can create impact and contribute. Additionally, Villa has scored 30 goals so far, fewer than Chelsea and Manchester United, both of whom are sitting below the Villans. 

 

Therefore, we have highlighted Tottenham forward Brennan Johnson as a potential target for Aston Villa, who is rumoured to be let go by Spurs in January. Whilst he has struggled for minutes this season, only scoring four goals in all competitions, his impressive goal tally last season shows there is a player to be unleashed. 

 

The Welshman scored 18 goals last season, 11 in the EPL, five in the UEFA Europa League and one each in the FA Cup and EFL Cup. With a proven goalscoring record in both the EPL and UEL, this could definitely bolster Villa’s attacking numbers. Even if Emery doesn’t end up pushing for the EPL title, all the way to May, there is a belief that he can win the UEL, after collecting 15 points in the league phase. With Johnson’s experience, there is no need to adapt; only an adjustment to new tactics and teammates.

AFC Bournemouth - Jhon Lucumí

AFC Bournemouth started extremely well under Andoni Iraola in the EPL 2025/26 season, but the Cherries are winless in their last eight games. Losing Dean Huijsen and Ilyan Zabarnyi in the summer were massive hits, but they could be looking to lose starman Antoine Semenyo in January, which is not ideal for Iraola. With Semenyo likely to leave for around £65 to £100 million, this should raise funds for Bournemouth to find a replacement or improve other areas. 

 

Whilst Semenyo has provided eight goals, contributing to almost half of Bournemouth’s goals, we believe the Cherries should look to bolster their defensive options. Having lost Huijsen and Zabarnyi, conceding 35 goals in the EPL and down to three main centre-back options, Bournemouth should look at bringing in Bologna defender Jhon Lucumí. Lucumí has been part of an impressive Bologna side, and the left-sided centre-back has been part of the success. 

 

The Colombian is strong and confident on the ball, a perfect match for Iraola’s possession and attacking style of football. With only one strong left centre-back currently playing at Bournemouth, in Marcos Senesi, Lucumí should provide strong competition and a solid starting option for Iraola. Additionally, Senesi is reported to be exploring an exit; Bournemouth needs to act ahead and seek Lucumí as a replacement. 

Brentford - Tosin Adarabioyo

Brentford’s Keith Andrews was under scrutiny before the season even started, with many questioning the appointment because of his lack of experience. Andrews has adopted a very defensive style, with a strong focus on set pieces and long throws, which has been revived in the modern era. One strong positive is the Bees’ striker, Igor Thiago, who is in second place for the most goals scored in the EPL, hitting the net 11 times this season so far; therefore, it is unlikely that their recruitment focus will be on an attacker.

 

Brentford need strong rotational options for the two starting Brentford centre-backs, Nathan Collins and Sepp Van den Berg, as currently, they have Kristoffer Ajer and Ethan Pinnock to choose from off the bench, but they are not providing enough competition. 

 

To strengthen their defence, Brentford should aim to bring in Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo, who has been criticised due to his recent performances. Despite this, Adarabioyo is a solid and proven EPL centre-back who can easily fit into Andrews’ style due to his height and experience. Not only is this a solid rotation for Andrews’ defence, but Adarbioyo can be trusted to start. 

Brighton - Ricardo Pepi

 Brighton has lost the important Carlos Baleba due to the African Cup of Nations and could potentially see him depart in January, with the midfielder linked to other EPL sides like Manchester United. Whether the move happens or not, Brighton should look to sort out the “number nine” spot, a position which is quite weak in the squad. 

 

Currently, there is a contrast in age in the striker position at Brighton, as there is a 35-year-old Danny Welbeck and the two Greek youth players, Stefanos Tzimas and Charalambos Kostoulas. Welbeck has provided eight EPL goals this season, but it is not enough for Fabian Hürzeler, especially since Tzimas and Kostoulas only have one each. 

 

To fix their Striker problem, Brighton should turn their attention to PSV Eindhoven forward Ricardo Pepi. The USA international impressed many last season, scoring 17 goals in all competitions, playing just 28 games, and this 2025/26 campaign is no different, tallying 10 already. Pepi is versatile, possessing the ability to finish his chances and even create them, too, which can benefit Hürzeler. 

Burnley - Imran Louza

Burnley’s trajectory for the end of the 2025/26 EPL season is to finish in the relegation zone, so the January transfer window has the potential to make a huge difference for the Clarets. In January, Burnley should look to bring in a midfielder who can give manager Scott Parker balance, providing strength going forward and tracking back.

 

We have identified Imran Louza for Parker, a Moroccan midfielder, playing for Watford in the EFL Championship. Louza has been outstanding this 2025/26 season, being Watford’s best player so far and one of the best players in the Championship. In fact, analysts prove that he is the best player of the season so far! 

 

Many EPL teams are hesitant when signing players from the league below, but the 26-year-old is showing that he is definitely ready for the jump up to the EPL. Whilst it does look like Burnley could be relegated, Louza would be a great addition for building the blocks in gaining another promotion next season, if they were to go down, that is.  

Chelsea - Murillo 

Chelsea is unlikely to make any signings in January, but there is a hint of unhappiness from head coach Enzo Maresca and disappointment from the Blues’ fans at the recruitment of new signings in the summer transfer window. 

 

It is difficult to pinpoint the area in which Chelsea should look to strengthen, as the main frustrations are centred on the attacking department. However, the Blues have spent over £200 million on new attackers in the summer, including names such as João Pedro, Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho. So, for Chelsea to pick up more attackers shows weakness and illogical thinking because the new signings must be given time to gel. 

 

Therefore, Chelsea should strengthen their defensive depth and look to bring in Nottingham Forest defender Murillo. The Brazilian centre-back has made quite a name for himself in the EPL since joining in 2023, and has been targeted by the big sides over the past year or so. Murillo would be perfect for Maresca; he is the exemplar of a modern centre-back, whose strong attributes consist of physicality, solid defending and confident ball-playing abilities. Additionally, he is left-footed, which would benefit the left side of Chelsea’s defence, with no cover for the injured Levi Colwill.

Crystal Palace - Sacha Boey

Crystal Palace are set to have one of the busiest starts to the new year, in terms of fixtures, due to congestion. What is uncertain is how busy their transfer window will be. Oliver Glasner has reportedly rejected a contract extension, with frustrations at the lack of ambition and investment. 

 

The owners will need to empty their pockets, though, because of the fixture congestion that is heading their way. Especially since the Eagles have sustained injuries to key players like Daniel Muñoz, Chris Richards and Dachi Kamada. This January window should be a busy one for Palace, with all areas of the pitch requiring attention; they could even go in for Brennan Johnson.

 

Palace must strengthen the right side of the pitch in defence and attack to cover Muñoz’s injury and Ismaïla Sarr’s AFCON call-up. To achieve this, the Eagles should target Bayern Munich defender Sacha Boey. The French full-back has been out of favour under Vincent Kompany, seeing Konrad Laimer get the nod ahead of him. Boey offers strong attacking and defensive abilities, with his quick pace to get forward and solid defensive work, similar to Muñoz. 

Everton - Abdul Fatawu

Everton have been solid under Moyes this season, and under their new home, the Hill Dickinson Stadium. But they are lacking depth in all areas of the pitch, meaning serious business may be done in the January window. Mainly, a right-back, centre-defensive midfielder and a left-winger should be under the Toffee’s recruitment focus. 

 

In January, Everton should heavily focus on the left-winger position. Despite Jack Grealish performing well, he is only on loan, with his future at Everton insecure, and Dwight McNeil is out of favour. 

 

To strengthen the left wing and provide competition for the future, Everton should highlight Leicester City’s Abdul Fatawu. The 21-year-old has plenty of potential and has been one of Leicester City’s consistent performers since joining in the 2023/24 season. The young Ghanaian loves to take on his opposing defender in a direct or creative fashion, which would suit Moyes’ attacking style. 

Fulham - Jørgen Strand Larsen

Fulham had a quiet summer window, making just four signings in Kevin, Samuel Chukwueze, Benjamin Lecomte and Jonah Kusi-Asare. The Cottagers are expected to have one of the busier January windows out of the opposing EPL sides, reportedly looking to improve their central midfield, sign a new winger and bring in a striker. 

 

These are all essential areas for Fulham to improve; they could even add the centre-back position to the list of positions to recruit. For Fulham, we have focused on the “number nine” spot, currently occupied by an ageing Raúl Jiménez and an injured Rodrigo Muniz. Jørgen Strand Larsen from Wolves would be a fantastic addition to the striker department for Fulham. 

 

Strand Larsen is the perfect target man: he has an eye for goal, he is strong and tall and can link play together well. This can be argued as an impossible signing because he is crucial for Wolves and has a large price tag; however, Wolves did make a fair amount of attacking signings in the summer, and the price tag could be lowered due to his poor form and the club’s league position. Fulham should at least enquire about Strand Larsen, who has decent EPL experience and a track record of scoring goals in his debut EPL season.

Leeds United - Ruben Vargas

Unlike the previous club, Fulham, Leeds United had a lively summer transfer window, bringing in ten fresh additions to Elland Road. What was underrated about the Peacocks’ business was the fees involved for each signing, all of whom were under the £20 million mark. Whether this is intended by the owners of Leeds United, it is something that is considered when highlighting a player to recruit in January. 

 

Half of the ten signings were defensive additions, including a goalkeeper, so it is highly doubtful that the Whites will go back in for a defender. Leeds tend to play with a midfield two or three in a three-at-the-back formation and have enough depth, but do not be surprised if they add one more in the central part of the park. However, their attack is lacking some strength in depth, mainly out wide, as new signings Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha have been providing goals.

 

To stay under the £20 million mark and focus on a winger, Leeds United should look to introduce Rubén Vargas from Spanish side Sevilla. Vargas’ market value sits at around £10 million, but he could be signed for less, which would be a bargain either way. The Swiss international predominantly plays on the left wing, but can also provide an option centrally for Daniel Farke. Vargas has three goals and four assists in La Liga, playing just 12, which is pretty impressive. He is quick, both-footed, direct and even has a strong heading ability, demonstrating a strong output, crucial for a side fighting for survival. 

Liverpool - Marc Guéhi

This is quite an obvious one, considering what happened in the summer. Liverpool’s defence has been exposed numerous times this 2025/26 season, clearly highlighted as the weakest part of Arne Slot’s squad. Virgil Van Dijk hasn’t been up to his usual elite standard, Ibrahima Konaté has looked miles off the pace, Milos Kerkez has struggled to find his feet, and there have been complications at the right-back spot. 

 

Whilst Van Dijk remains Liverpool’s best-performing defender, as Milos Kerkez needs time to adjust to his new life in Merseyside and right-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley can gain some consistency, one position requires strengthening - that is, the centre-back position.

 

Alluding to what happened in the summer, Liverpool almost signed Marc Guéhi almost signed for the Reds, but the deal was called off in the closing hours of deadline day. It is expected that Liverpool will attempt to make a bid for the English international, whether that is paying around a similar fee of £35 million or on a pre-contract agreement. Guéhi would be the perfect signing for Liverpool, not only strengthening the defence, but also potentially Virgil Van Dijk’s successor, when he eventually departs.

Manchester City - Adam Wharton 

Manchester City and transfer windows go hand in hand. Even though the Cityzens do plenty of business in the summer, they are also active in January, always looking to add to their ever-growing squad. 

 

Man City are the frontrunners to sign Antoine Semenyo, which would certainly help the over-reliance on goals from Erling Haaland, as the Ghanaian forward has nine goals in the EPL so far this season. But they need more strength in midfield to make up for the loss of Kevin De Bruyne, the injured Rodri and Mateo Kovačič, and potential outgoings of Bernardo Silva and Kalvin Phillips.  

 

Taking these midfield losses and possible departures into account, Man City should aim to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton. Having already lost key players in Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise, Palace could be set to lose more important players. Wharton is one of Pep Guardiola’s admirers, seeing a huge improvement from last season to be titled as one of the best midfielders in the EPL currently. Wharton’s deep lying playmaking abilities to break opposing midfield and defensive lines, with sound tackling and intelligence of the game, he would be perfect for Guardiola. 

Manchester United - Elliot Anderson

Similar to their rivals, Manchester City, Manchester United’s depth in midfield has been questioned by critics. Ruben Amorim’s system requires two hard-working midfielders, but it has been an issue for the head coach with inconsistencies and injuries falling his way. 

 

Currently, captain Bruno Fernandes is viewed as wasted playing in a deeper role, an ageing Casemiro has been criticised for not having the legs anymore, Manuel Ugarte’s performances have been inconsistent, and young star Kobbie Mainoo’s future is uncertain at the club. 

 

One player who can virtually do it all is Nottingham Forest’s midfielder Elliot Anderson. Anderson’s ability is so vast, he is the perfect man for Amorim’s midfield, possessing strong defensive attributes, like his physicality and playmaking traits, such as breaking the lines and fine passing range. This move could be a match made in heaven.    

Newcastle - Omar El-Hilali

Newcastle’s 2025/26 EPL season has been very underwhelming, yet a drop-off was expected because the Magpies lost key striker Alexander Isak. Whilst plenty of attacking signings were made, like Nick Woltemade, Yoann Wissa and Anthony Elanga, they are all going to need time to settle in Tyneside and adjust to manager Eddie Howe’s tactics. 

 

What needs strengthening is the defence, which is a department of the squad which has faced some injury problems, and could see some losses too. Currently, Newcastle has six defenders out due to injury, three being right-backs: Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth. Having all three right-backs out due to injuries is extremely unfortunate, but even without their injuries, Trippier and Krafth could be offloaded, either in January or next season, depending on how long they are out for. 

 

To improve their right-back options and depth, Newcastle should target Moroccan defender Omar El Hilali, who currently plays his football in Spain for RCD Espanyol. El Hilali is a solid right-back, mainly known for his strong defensive abilities, standing taller than the average and conventional full-back. His main attributes consist of tackling, interceptions and aerial duels, all key traits for Howe. Whilst he isn’t the greatest going forward, he has provided two assists in La Liga, which is one more than Livramento. This would be a solid addition to Howe’s defence, one that wouldn’t cost a lot either.

Nottingham Forest - Dwight McNeil

Nottingham Forest have slightly improved from their poor start at the start of the season under Sean Dyche, who will be looking for one or two reinforcements in January. Forest signed 13 players in the summer transfer window, over half of whom were defensive recruits, with others making up midfield depth. 

 

One position that did not gain much attention was the left-wing spot, currently occupied by Callum Hudson-Odoi. This is an area that needs to be improved, either by gaining a strong starter or someone who can provide competition and pressure on Hudson-Odoi. 

 

For this, Forest should bring in a familiar face to Sean Dyche of Dwight McNeil, who is playing at Everton. McNeil has played under Dyche twice: at Burnley and at Everton. This partnership has been very successful, as McNeil can create chances through his wicked left foot and also provides defensive contributions.   

Sunderland - Tyrique George

Sunderland’s 2025/26 EPL season is one of thrill, surprise and excitement, with the Black Cats playing out a truly wonderful comeback story after eight seasons in the EFL. Sunderland brought in various players in the summer to strengthen all areas across the pitch, but Regis Le Bris’ side has been hit the hardest by AFCON, so could look to bring in players to fill in for the month and have a long-lasting impact.

 

Sunderland’s defensive reinforcements have been vital for this strong EPL campaign, with Nordi Mukiele, Omar Alderete and Reinildo Mandava improving and solidifying Le Bris’ defence. In midfield, the signings of Granit Xhaka and Noah Sadiki have worked well together and formed a solid partnership. But, in attack, they need some options, specifically out in the wide areas.

 

Chelsea’s Tyrqiue George gained a lot of interest in the summer from various EPL clubs, and Sunderland should turn their attention to the young winger. George is quick, direct and has solid scoring capabilities, with the ability to turn up on big occasions. Not only would he strengthen the attacking in terms of options, but he could even break into the starting eleven, especially whilst wingers Bertrand Traoré and Chemsdine Talbi are away for their international clubs at AFCON.

Tottenham Hotspur - Ademola Lookman

Life under Thomas Frank has been difficult for Tottenham, with the new manager under scrutiny because of inconsistencies and a lack of results. Alternatively, some are happy to give him some time because of injuries to key players and are blaming the performances of the players.

 

What has also been questioned by the majority of the club’s critics is the recruitment and transfers of players over the past few windows. Spurs need a left winger badly, with a serious lack of strength out wide, with Frank selecting Randal Kolo Muani in that position, despite having more natural options of Mathys Tel and Wilson Odobert. 

 

To improve the left wing spot, Tottenham should be ambitious and prove why people should take them seriously. In January, Spurs should bring in Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman, who would be a major upgrade over Tel and Odobert. Lookman is extremely versatile and has a strong goalscoring record, with 52 goals from 2022/23 to 2024/25. With goals being a problem at Tottenham, Lookman should be able to fix this issue. 

West Ham - Ayase Ueda

West Ham find themselves in a relegation battle this season, with many tipping them to go down amongst the likes of Burnley and Wolves. To stay up and fight for survival, the Hammers must spend in January and make some additions to the squad. 

 

A big problem for the Hammers has been the lack of ability to put the ball in the back of the net, scoring just 21 goals, statistically missing more big chances than Tottenham and Fulham. Quite simply, the London Stadium need a goalscorer, someone who knows where the goal is without having to think twice. 

 

To achieve this, West Ham should target Ayase Ueda from Feyenoord in the Eredivisie, who has 18 goals in 17 games in the Dutch league. Clearly, head coach Robin van Persie is giving him some tips. The Japanese striker is a natural finisher, has fantastic movement and possesses a strong heading ability, which is what Nuno Espírito Santo needs in front of goal. With German international Niclas Füllkrug seemingly on his way out, linked with Italian side AC Milan, the Hammers will only have Callum Wilson to choose from, so they must recruit a striker. Ueda is the one.

Wolverhampton Wanderers - Axel Disasi

Avoiding relegation is an impossible job for Rob Edwards, as this Wolves side is on course to go down as one of the worst sides in EPL history. The infamous record is held by Derby County for their disastrous 2007/08 EPL season, collecting just 11 points in 38 games. As we hit the halfway point of the EPL season, at this moment in time, Wolves have collected just three points. Come the end of the season, Wolves could end this campaign on six points.

 

One of the biggest problems for Wolves this season has been their defence, which has been criticised for playing itself into trouble. Statistically, Wolves lead the way for the most errors leading to goals, with a total of seven errors. Having spent most of their money on the attacking department, Wolves must attempt to fix their defence.

 

Wolves should look to bring in Chelsea centre-back Axel Disasi on loan, who has found himself out of favour with head coach Enzo Maresca, featuring in the U21 squad as of late. Disasi’s quality has been questioned by many, but the Frenchman is a solid centre-back with strong physicality and heading abilities. He would be much suited to this Wolves side, who sit deep and look to drop off against teams more than playing a high line and playing out from the back under pressure. 

 

The expectation for this January window is for it to be a quiet one from the majority of EPL clubs, but as always, there are surprises, full of twists and turns. Some clubs must spend, like Crystal Palace, who lack depth, Bournemouth, who look set to lose star man Antoine Semenyo and West Ham, who will most likely be left with one striker. We will have to wait and see how this January window plays out and how it will impact the remainder of the EPL season.