Best buys for the ‘Big Six’ in this January transfer window
The January transfer window has opened and the madness begins. Amidst a busy month of fixtures, the “Big Six” managers and chairmen alike will be looking to improve their squads. Extra Time Talk will look at six players who could potentially make a difference for the Premier League’s forerunners.
Arsenal
As always, Arsenal will likely be quiet in January, but with a rumored Alexis Sanchez departure from the North Londoners, Arsenal will be in a hurry to replace the Chilean. He has been an integral part of their already up and down campaign. A potential replacement could be former summer target, Thomas Lemar.
The Frenchman has continued his flying form from last campaign with two goals and four assists in twelve starts. He could provide Arsenal with replacement better than Sanchez. The only stumbling block would be the price tag. Arsenal remain on a budget with a potential record breaking deal on the books. As Valencia confirm an 18m move for Francis Coquelin – this could quickly change.
Chelsea
Antonio Conte will want to strengthen his squad to keep up with the Manchester teams in addition to keeping their place in the top four, but after the additon of Midfielder Ross Barkley, the Blue’s business may be all but done according to multiple sources. Yet, the squad is still lacking depth and with a busy schedule of European and domestic fixtures, the Londoners will may still need an extra man. Past links such as Juventus’s Alex Sandro, Inter Milan’s Perisic, or Barcelona’s Sergio Roberto may all be potential targets this window.
Liverpool
The biggest news to come out of the Liverpool camp is the departure of key man and longtime hero Philippe Couthino, but the Merysiders have less cash to splash in the January window after already bagging Dutch defender Virgil Van Dijk.
There are a few players who could easily make the same impact Couthino has made over the years. Leicester City ace, Riyad Mahrez is currently amongst the world’s most touted wingers in the world at the moment. With the combination of his Premeir League and title winning experience, the Algerian could be a frightening addition to an already elite attack.
Manchester City face a battle with United for Sanchez
It is no secret that the league leaders have been anything but dominant so far this campaign. It would be hard to argue that anyone could improve their squad at the moment.
However, key striker Gabriel Jesus went down with an MCL injury ruling him out for at least two months. Sergio Aguero remains the only real out and out striking option. Cue Alexis Sanchez, the Chilean is itching closer to a move that would see him reunite with former manager Pep Guardiola.
The current Arsenal star has arguably been one of the best players in the Premier Leauge these past four seasons. A swap to City could not only ensure Premier League glory, but access to the UEFA Champions League.
Re-United with Pep, or just United in the January transfer window
It is now rumoured following reports from an Italian Newspaper that Manchester United have entered the race to sing the unsettled German international while the January transfer window is still open.
Manchester United
Chasing City this season has proved tough, but it is United who are leading the pack. Jose Mourhino’s side have undoubtedly struggled in games where they on paper should have won. Like Chelsea, squad depth may be a major concern.
Paris St-German winger, Lucas Moura is heavily linked for a move to Old Trafford. He could provide a new spark in the sometimes lacklustre United attack. The Brazilian known for his trickery and directness – what United have been missing. With Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s lack of contribution from the wing, Moura could be an excellent addition to the squad.
Tottenham Hotspur
After a slow start, Tottenham managed to pick up pace and are right back into top four contention. With an imminent key tie in the Champions League, and race for silverware, Pochettino may still look to add more depth in the January transfer window.
Another key issue is Mousa Dembele’s ongoing injury. Spurs biggest concern should be finding a player who can replicate the Belgian’s ability to dominate in Pochettino’s style.
Whilst there are pricy options such as Lazio star Sergej Milinković-Savić and Schalke’s Leon Goretzka, the North Londoners may go for a cheaper model. On-loan midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia could be it. The Frenchman has proved vital for Valencia and with Inter’s midfield full, Spurs could swoop to sign in the Summer window.
Chairman Daniel Levy when asked about buying players in this January transfer window replied;
“It is Mauricio’s srategy is if there is a player that comes available that can improve the squad then he’s more than willing to look at it. The January transfer window is always a difficult one.” He told Sky Sports.