Key Premier League Players Seeking Transfers Before January Window Closes

omidbasir- With less than a week remaining in the January transfer window, Premier League clubs and players are under pressure to finalize their moves.

Although the month has been relatively quiet, there is potential for an exciting finish, as several players are still in need of new opportunities.

Whether they have been sidelined by their clubs, requested transfers, encountered contractual issues, or require game time in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, here are the prominent Premier League players who must secure new arrangements before the window closes on February 2.

First, let’s note that Lucas Paquetá (West Ham), Oscar Bobb (Manchester City), and Oleksandr Zinchenko (Arsenal) are in similar positions but will not be included in this discussion, as they appear to be on track for transfers. Paquetá is anticipated to return to Brazil with Flamengo, Bobb seems set to join Fulham, and Zinchenko is headed to Ajax.

Leading this list is Raheem Sterling, who is in dire need of a change. The 31-year-old has not played since May when he was on loan at Arsenal. That arrangement was not made permanent, and Chelsea has not registered him to play, leaving him training away from the first team. Sterling’s significant wage of £325,000 per week complicates matters, making any potential transfer a substantial financial gamble.

Harvey Elliott also faces challenges; his loan at Aston Villa includes a clause making it permanent for around £35 million after ten appearances, but Unai Emery has not utilized him since October 2, significantly hindering his chances of reaching that threshold. Given that he has already made a substitute appearance for Liverpool this season, his only feasible option for a move might be to a club outside Europe.

Meanwhile, Tottenham’s Tel is dissatisfied with his limited playing time, having started just six Premier League matches this season. With clubs like Paris FC interested in a loan, he may seek a new club before the deadline.

Jean-Philippe Mateta has expressed a desire to leave Crystal Palace following interest from Juventus and Aston Villa. As both clubs have shifted focus elsewhere, Nottingham Forest has emerged as a potential destination, reportedly willing to pay £35 million, although Palace is holding out for £40 million.

The transfer market often resembles a domino effect; if Mateta departs, Palace will need to find a replacement, which might present an opportunity for Strand Larsen of Wolves, who has fallen out of favor after a promising debut season.

Liam Gomes has also caught the attention of Manchester United, given his impressive midfield performances despite Wolves’ struggles. A transfer could align him with his idol Casemiro, who is set to leave Old Trafford at the season’s end.

Kalvin Phillips is another player at risk of being overlooked; the 30-year-old has played only seven minutes for Manchester City this season. If his wages of £150,000 per week can be negotiated, he should consider any potential offers.

Finally, despite Liverpool’s injury concerns, Federico Chiesa has seen limited action, starting only one Premier League game this season. To secure his chance to represent Italy in the World Cup, he may need to increase his playing time.