Players Who Could Be on the Move in the Upcoming Transfer Window
Raheem Sterling: Uncertainty Surrounding His Future
Raheem Sterling’s future at Chelsea has come into question recently. His omission from the squad for the opener against Manchester City, followed by a statement from his representatives seeking “clarity” about his role at the club, suggests that he may be looking for an exit. At 29 years old, Sterling would undoubtedly attract interest from other clubs. West Ham and Crystal Palace have already been linked as potential destinations for the former Liverpool forward.
Chelsea’s Squad Overload
Chelsea’s busy transfer window has left them with a squad of over 40 senior players, causing signs of discontent at Stamford Bridge. With 11 signings costing approximately £185m, it is inevitable that not all players will be satisfied with their playing time. Conor Gallagher’s move to Atletico Madrid is still on hold, but his exit from Chelsea seems inevitable. Ben Chilwell, Trevoh Chalobah, and Noni Madueke are also players who could be looking for an exit after not being involved in the Premier League’s opening weekend. Manager Enzo Maresca is desperate to offload some players, so a fire sale at Stamford Bridge may be on the horizon.
Potential Departures from Chelsea
Striker Romelu Lukaku, although still on Chelsea’s books, could also be on the move this month. Napoli is reportedly interested in a swap deal for Victor Osimhen. Another potential newcomer at Chelsea is Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid, with the Spanish club keen to include him in a deal for Gallagher. The transfer window for Chelsea is far from over, and more twists and turns are expected before it closes.
Ivan Toney: Likely to Leave Brentford
It appears likely that Ivan Toney has played his last match for Brentford. The 28-year-old was left out of the squad for the opener against Crystal Palace after a £35m bid from Saudi side Al-Ahli was turned down. Brentford boss Thomas Frank admitted that it is a matter of when, not if, Toney leaves the club. Toney has been at Brentford for four years and scored 20 goals in 33 Premier League games last season. While he has been linked with moves to Arsenal and Chelsea in the past, a move to Saudi Arabia now seems most likely.
Uncertainty Surrounding Marc Guehi’s Future
The future of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi remains uncertain. The club has rejected three bids from Newcastle, the latest being around £60m. It is unclear whether Newcastle will increase their offer, leaving Guehi’s future up in the air. Only time will tell what happens with this potential transfer.
Joe Gomez: Linked with a Move Away from Liverpool
Liverpool’s Joe Gomez is being heavily linked with a move away from Anfield. After being left out of the squad for the Premier League opener, Gomez is reportedly attracting interest from Newcastle, Aston Villa, Fulham, and Crystal Palace. If Newcastle gives up on their pursuit of Guehi, Gomez could be a potential alternative for the club.
Mikel Merino: Arsenal’s Potential Signing
Arsenal is in talks with Real Sociedad about signing Spain midfielder Mikel Merino. The 28-year-old played a crucial role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory and has less than a year remaining on his contract. This may give Arsenal an advantage in completing a deal, as Merino would be able to speak to other clubs about signing on a free transfer in January.
Jarrad Branthwaite: Everton’s Center-back Targeted by Rivals
Everton is keen to keep hold of 22-year-old center-back Jarrad Branthwaite, but transfer rumors are swirling around the player. Manchester United has already had two bids rejected, but other clubs, including Liverpool, are now being linked with a move for the young defender.
Potential Exits from Manchester United
Jadon Sancho’s return to Manchester United after a loan spell at Borussia Dortmund may not be a long-term arrangement. He was not involved in the opener against Fulham, and with several injured players set to return, his playing time may be limited. Scott McTominay is another player being linked with a departure from Manchester United after being left out of the starting lineup against Fulham. Clubs such as Crystal Palace, Brighton, and Fulham are reportedly interested in the midfielder. The futures of both Sancho and McTominay at Manchester United remain uncertain.