The January transfer window in Europe opens as soon as the clocks strike midnight worldwide, marking the beginning of 2025. This period brings about the usual rush for clubs to address their short-term issues with quick fixes rather than strategic long-term moves. Al Jazeera Sport highlights the top five players being heavily linked with transfers, the clubs interested in them, and the reasons behind the speculation:
1. Marcus Rashford (Manchester United): Potential suitors include Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and the Saudi Pro League. Despite a recent dip in form, Rashford remains a coveted player for a potential record-breaking January transfer. The 27-year-old, once considered a future Galactico for Real Madrid and a replacement for Kylian Mbappe at PSG, now finds himself on the fringes at Manchester United under new coach Ruben Amorim.
2. Victor Osimhen (Napoli): Manchester United, Chelsea, and PSG have shown interest in the Nigerian striker, who was Serie A’s top scorer when Napoli clinched the league title in 2021-22. Osimhen’s potential move has been delayed due to Napoli’s high valuation, leaving him on loan at Galatasaray. With doubts over Rashford’s future, United could be eyeing Osimhen to bolster their attacking options.
3. Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting Lisbon): Manchester United, Manchester City, and Arsenal are interested in the Swedish striker, who has impressed at Sporting since leaving Brighton. Gyokeres could provide much-needed firepower for United, while City see him as a backup for Erling Haaland. Arsenal’s need for attacking reinforcements may also lead them to pursue Gyokeres.
4. Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao): Barcelona, Manchester United, and PSG are keeping tabs on the Spanish forward, who shone during Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign. Williams has continued to excel at Bilbao, attracting interest from top clubs seeking young, talented attackers. Barcelona’s potential link-up with Williams’ international teammate Lamine Yamal could sway the decision in their favor.
5. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool): Real Madrid and PSG have shown interest in the Liverpool full-back, whose contract expires soon. While Salah and van Dijk are likely to extend their deals, Alexander-Arnold’s future remains uncertain. Liverpool face a dilemma with three key players nearing the end of their contracts, with potential suitors ready to pounce on the talented defender.