Key Premier League Players Seeking Transfers Before the Deadline

omidbasir- With less than a week remaining in the January transfer window, Premier League clubs and players are racing against the clock to secure necessary moves.

Despite a relatively quiet month thus far, the final days may bring considerable activity as several players still seek new opportunities.

These individuals find themselves in various situations: some have been sidelined by their clubs, others have requested transfers, while many are entangled in challenging contractual issues or simply require more playing time before the 2026 World Cup. Here are the prominent names in the Premier League who must seek new solutions before the window closes on February 2.

To start, Lucas Paquetá (West Ham), Oscar Bobb (Manchester City), and Oleksandr Zinchenko (Arsenal) are also in need of moves, but they are not included in this list as they are reportedly close to securing transfers. Paquetá is expected to return to Brazil with Flamengo, Bobb looks set to join Fulham, and Zinchenko is heading to Ajax.

Raheem Sterling is undoubtedly the headline name on this list and is in dire need of a change in circumstance. He has not played since last May when he was on loan at Arsenal, a move that was not made permanent. Chelsea has not registered him for game play since then, leaving him to train away from the first team.

A significant hurdle remains: the 31-year-old’s reported weekly wages of £325,000. Given his lack of playing time for nearly eight months and his underwhelming performance during his stint at Arsenal, his acquisition poses a considerable risk unless he is willing to mutually terminate his contract at Stamford Bridge.

Another player facing challenges is Harvey Elliott, currently on loan at Aston Villa. There is a clause in his deal that would make the transfer permanent for approximately £35 million after ten appearances; however, he is unlikely to reach that threshold, having not featured since October 2 due to Unai Emery’s apparent lack of interest. Elliott has already made a substitute appearance for Liverpool this season, limiting his options to move to another European club. His best chance may lie in reaching an agreement between Liverpool and Villa, potentially adjusting the loan terms to allow for more playing time.

Tottenham Hotspur is also in a precarious situation as they deal with injuries; any loss from their squad could be detrimental. Yet, Tel is reportedly dissatisfied, having started only six Premier League games this season and missing out on a spot in the Champions League squad. With interest from clubs like Paris FC for a loan deal, Tel’s future hangs in the balance.

Following reported interest from Juventus and Aston Villa last week, Mateta expressed a desire to leave Crystal Palace. However, with both clubs pursuing other options, he now finds himself in limbo. Nottingham Forest has emerged as a potential suitor, allegedly willing to pay £35 million for his services, although Palace is holding out for £40 million. Mateta will be hoping for a resolution, as this may be his last chance for a move.

Transfer windows often function like dominoes; should Mateta depart Palace, they would need to find a replacement striker. This situation is of particular interest to Strand Larsen, who is eager to leave Wolves, who are facing relegation. After a successful debut season, Larsen has seen a decline in playing time this year, and clubs such as Palace and Leeds United have shown interest in him.

In addition to Larsen, Wolves midfielder Gomes has garnered attention due to his impressive performances despite his team’s struggles. Manchester United has expressed interest, and should Gomes make the move, he would likely be stepping into the role of one of his idols, Casemiro, who is set to leave Old Trafford at season’s end.

Phillips has seemingly been overlooked, remaining at Manchester City while playing just seven minutes this season. Although he showed potential during his loan at Ipswich Town last season, a move to another Premier League club seems unlikely unless his substantial wages of £150,000 a week can be negotiated down.

Lastly, while Liverpool might hesitate to part with Chiesa this month, especially with Alexander Isak’s injury requiring cover, he’s only seen limited action since Isak’s injury. The 28-year-old has started just one Premier League match this season despite positive feedback from Liverpool fans regarding his effort and dedication. If he aims to participate in the World Cup with Italy, he may need to secure more playing time soon.