The January transfer window may have passed with little fanfare, but the Premier League’s biggest clubs have already turned their focus toward the summer.
Arsenal’s search for a top-class striker remains a priority after failing to replace Gabriel Jesus last month, while Chelsea’s erratic spending spree is set to continue. Liverpool face a period of transition with key contracts running down, Manchester City’s future hinges on the resolution of their 115 charges, and Manchester United must overhaul their squad on a tight budget.
New boss Ruben Amorim has already shown patience, making just one senior signing in January, but significant reinforcements will be needed when the market reopens. Among the names set to dominate headlines, these 12 stars could shape the next transfer saga.
Alexander Isak – Newcastle United
Newcastle’s Swedish talisman is enjoying a stellar campaign, but the Magpies’ financial constraints could force them into a difficult decision. Arsenal have long admired Isak, and Mikel Arteta sees him as the ideal No.9 to lead the line. Newcastle prioritized securing Anthony Gordon’s future but are yet to offer Isak a new deal, largely due to Profit & Sustainability Regulations. If Eddie Howe’s side fails to secure a Champions League spot, Isak could be one of the first names on the move, with Arsenal primed to pounce.
Viktor Gyokeres – Sporting CP
Manchester United’s attacking struggles are no secret, and Gyokeres has emerged as their prime target to solve their No.9 dilemma. Ruben Amorim played a crucial role in elevating his fellow Swede’s game at Sporting, but financial constraints remain a major obstacle for United. Amorim agreed not to raid his former club in January, but that restriction won’t apply in the summer. Arsenal and Chelsea could also enter the race for Gyokeres, making this one of the most intriguing transfer battles of the window.
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Mohamed Salah & Trent Alexander-Arnold – Liverpool
Liverpool’s summer hinges on two crucial contract situations. Mohamed Salah, a club legend, could finally make the long-anticipated move to Saudi Arabia, where suitors are growing increasingly vocal. With few European clubs able to match his wages, the Middle East seems the likeliest destination. Meanwhile, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future remains uncertain. If he departs as a free agent, Real Madrid looks the likeliest suitor. The Reds will need to be shrewd in the market to replace two of their most irreplaceable stars while navigating the dawn of the Arne Slot era.
Marcus Rashford – Aston Villa (Loan from Man Utd)
Rashford’s future remains one of the biggest mysteries of the summer. Having joined Aston Villa on loan, his performances in the next four months will determine whether the move becomes permanent. If he flourishes, Villa could push to sign him permanently, impacting their own summer budget. However, if he struggles, Manchester United will be left with a tough decision: reintegrate him under Amorim or offload him elsewhere. The next few months are crucial for Rashford’s career and United’s squad planning.
Marc Guehi – Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace stood firm in January, rebuffing interest from Chelsea, Newcastle, and Tottenham, but a summer move looks increasingly likely. Palace should command a hefty fee for their captain, one of England’s most reliable defenders. Tottenham’s late-window bid signals their strong interest, while Chelsea may look to bring him back to Stamford Bridge. Guehi’s future could be one of the most competitive transfer battles of the window, with top clubs vying for his signature.
Florian Wirtz & Bryan Mbeumo – Bundesliga & Brentford
One of the Bundesliga’s brightest stars, Wirtz looks poised for a summer move, with Bayern Munich and La Liga giants leading the race. Arsenal have previously shown interest, but with Martin Odegaard already occupying the playmaker role, a move to Spain or Bavaria seems more probable.
Meanwhile, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has stepped up in Ivan Toney’s absence, making him an attractive option for several clubs. If Salah departs, Liverpool could view him as an ideal replacement, but Newcastle are also monitoring his progress. Mbeumo’s explosive style and proven Premier League experience make him a hot commodity for the summer market.
With these stars at the center of summer transfer speculation, the window promises to be a thrilling ride. Clubs will battle financial constraints, strategic squad-building, and fierce competition in their quest to land top talent. Expect dramatic twists, blockbuster deals, and unexpected moves that will shape the next Premier League season.
