The January transfer window usually offers teams a chance to bolster their squad as they continue to pursue their season ambitions. While most teams don’t spend much during the January transfer window, some do everything possible to get the players they want. So far, many managers have seen the weaknesses in their squads and are already lining up potential signings. After checking how teams have started their 2023-24 campaign, here are the teams that will need good signings in January:
Chelsea
You are probably wondering what Chelsea is doing on this list. Chelsea have started the season poorly despite Todd Boehly splashing the cash to build a squad that can compete at the highest levels. However, the results have not been forthcoming. In fact, wagering fans on top platforms like William Hill are slowly losing faith in the team they thought would be back at the top this season.
EPL pundits claim that Chelsea will still be in the market for more players despite making marquee signings such as Palmer, Caicedo, Lavia, and Nkuku. However, the pundits claim that Chelsea would be making pre-contract talks with several players whose contracts expire in the summer of 2024. Examples of players Chelsea could be chasing in January include Kylian Mbappe, Nico Williams, Adrian Rabbiot, and Youssouf Fofana. Do you think Pochettino will be going for more players in January?
Manchester United
The Red Devils have had a frustrating start to the 2023/24 season, thanks to injuries and player drama. In recent weeks, United fans have endured frustrating results on the pitch after three losses in the first six EPL games. They have also had to put up with stuff happening off the pitch. For instance, Anthony and Sancho are not available for selection as they are dealing with personal issues.
In this regard, it will not be surprising if United looks for more players in January. The positions Ten Hag might have to strengthen are attack (mainly the right side) and defense. Some sources claim they might go for Todibo to bolster the defense line. However, they might have to sell players to buy due to FFP restrictions.
Arsenal
Mikel Arteta is keen on giving Pep Guardiola and Man City a run for their money! Last season, The Gunners went on an impressive run but couldn’t sustain the performances to win the EPL title. Arteta and Edu must have learned their lessons and might take a different approach this season.
Recent reports from England suggest that Arsenal have inquired about Ivan Toney. The Brentford striker is serving an 8-month ban. If Arteta can land this prolific striker, then Arsenal will become a serious title contender. It is also rumored that Arteta wants to add a versatile defender to his squad for more depth.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid fans were hoping that Kylian Mbappe would switch to the Spanish capital during the summer. Mbappe made it clear to the PSG hierarchy that he wanted to leave. The French giants were willing to accept a 300 million Euros bid from Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia’s Pro League.
However, Dembele’s signing and Neymar’s departure convinced him to stay. The French superstar signed a new deal believed to include a release clause of around 150 million Euros. There is no confirmation about these terms. Watch this space; Real Madrid might come back for him in January.
