Fifteen transfers that could reshape the January 2026 market according to AI
Shifting priorities in England
Liverpool are again preparing for interest in Mohamed Salah as uncertainty surrounding his contract enters another month. The Saudi league remains eager to add global stars, partly to raise its profile internationally and partly to build momentum ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle. Liverpool face a dilemma that many clubs encounter with aging but iconic players, whether to renew on large wages, sell at the last realistic opportunity, or risk a free departure in the summer.
At Real Madrid, Rodrygo’s status has changed since Xabi Alonso took charge earlier in the autumn. The Brazilian still carries enormous potential, but a crowded attacking line means his minutes have declined. Clubs in England see an opportunity to strengthen during a title race that remains tight at the top, and Rodrygo’s dribbling and creativity make him one of the more attractive forward options available this winter.
Manchester United also enter the window with a notably different approach under Ruben Amorim. His emphasis on structured pressing and direct transitions has pushed some players down the hierarchy. Joshua Zirkzee has struggled to adapt, opening the door for a potential return to Italy where he previously thrived and where Roma are searching for reinforcement after a difficult attacking stretch.
A tense winter in Paris
Paris Saint Germain, who often dominate French football, are preparing for a smaller but significant reshuffle. Randal Kolo Muani has yet to settle into the team’s system and may be moved on so that both the club and the player can reset expectations. Similarly, Milan Skriniar, once one of the most reliable defenders in Serie A, has found little playing time this season. Interest from Italy remains steady, as many clubs there are familiar with his strengths in structured defensive systems.
Read also: Liverpool’s ruthless call, Salah farewell cancelled to keep his price high
Young talents in search of minutes
One of the defining features of January windows is the movement of young players who need consistent playing time to continue their development. Real Madrid face a situation familiar to top clubs, where gifted players compete in positions stacked with world class veterans. Arda Güler, a technical attacking midfielder, has struggled to find space in a busy rotation. A short term loan in England could offer him a platform to play regularly in a physically demanding league.
Endrick, another of Madrid’s prized prospects, may also spend the second half of the season elsewhere. For teenage forwards, competitive minutes often matter more than training with superstar teammates, and a loan to a mid table Spanish club or a strong developmental environment in Portugal has precedent.
Across Europe, a similar need applies to Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel and Tottenham’s Archie Gray. Both are highly regarded but currently squeezed out by experienced teammates. Loan moves would allow them to establish rhythm, something that is difficult when playing only occasional late game minutes. Evan Ferguson, whose spell in Italy has not matched expectations, is another candidate for a mid season reset in England.
Clubs clearing space and recalibrating
Chelsea, still carrying one of the largest squads in Europe, are open to moving Mykhailo Mudryk as they continue reshaping the team. Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga, both known for giving wingers freedom in transition, suit his style and may revive his confidence.
Read also: Here’s Chelsea’s big problem: A team that can’t settle
Liverpool face a different kind of decision with goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. After several seasons as a reliable backup, he appears ready for a starting role elsewhere. Celtic and several mid table Premier League sides have been monitoring the situation as they look to stabilise their goalkeeping positions.
Arsenal are evaluating interest in Jakub Kiwior, who finds himself behind multiple established defenders. In Spain, Barcelona are working to reignite Ansu Fati’s career after several injury disrupted seasons, with moves to Sevilla or Benfica under discussion. Manchester United are also prepared to part ways with Antony, who has struggled to adapt to Amorim’s tactical demands that emphasise work rate and positional discipline.
Why this window feels different
This January has a distinctly transitional feel across Europe. Several major clubs changed managers in the autumn, and new coaches tend to accelerate squad turnover. Players who once fit older systems now occupy uncertain roles, while young prospects need minutes that their current teams cannot guarantee. At the same time, financially ambitious leagues outside Europe are creating new market pressures by targeting well known stars.
As a result, the upcoming window is shaping up to be not only a routine mid season adjustment but also a moment where some clubs redefine their long term plans. If even a portion of these potential moves materialise, January 2026 could stand as one of the more consequential winter markets in recent years.
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