The transfer rumour mill is in full force, as clubs look to make a signing that could change their fortunes or strengthen their ranks for the second half of their season. While January can be a quiet month for some, the final two weeks of the window look set to see a flurry of activity and last-minute deals for many Premier League clubs. Here is some of the most exciting moves that could happen by the 1st of February.
Ivan Toney
Would it be a transfer window without Ivan Toney being linked with a move away from Brentford? His prolific goalscoring record for Brentford of 68 goals in 124 appearances across all comps, has seen him being linked with a big-money move away year on year, however this hasn't materialised as of yet, with his recent 8 month ban for betting breaches posing a threat to him ever securing such move. Toney has always seemed destined to move across the capital to the Emirates, as Arsenal seem to lack a predator in-front of goal, that Toney would provide. As Toney now returns from his ban, this move could finally come to fruition, with Arsenal desperate for a striker, to give them any hope of mounting another title charge in the second-half of this Premier League season. While this move would pose a risk for Arteta's side, with his severe lack of minutes likely meaning he will take some time to reach the levels we have become accustomed to seeing of him, it should be a risk Arsenal take in the view of many. Although Brentford may be reluctant to sell, as his absence has been felt, with them currently sitting 16th in the league, a fall from the ambitions of European football with him leading the line. With teams unlikely to spend big in January, this one may have to wait till the summer, when he'll only have a year left on his contact, with Brentford in a less powerful position. However, this one might go down to 'Deadline Day' and will definitely be one to watch!
Kalvin Phillips
January can not only be a chance for teams to revive their season, but for players too, and Man City's Kalvin Philips is one player who is crying out for that chance. It's no secret that Phillips has struggled for minutes at Manchester City, only recording 31 appearances since his move from Leeds in 2022. With the thought of dislodging Rodri from his place in the starting XI almost impossible bar an injury. This had led to a host of clubs reportedly lining up to claim his services, most likely on loan. Another element that may be part of Phillips' willingness to secure a move this window is the approaching 2024 Euros, with him evidently wanting to be part of Southgate's 23-man squad. Although his lack of first-team club football hasn't affected his international selection as of yet, the prospect of constant top-flight minutes for the remainder of the season at another club, would likely cement his place in Gareth's team. This has led to Sky Sports reporting that Everton, Crystal Palace, West Ham, Juventus and Newcastle are fighting for his signature. Although the Magpies look the most likely to win the race, as they are most equipped to paying the reported £5 million loan fee demanded by City. Let us know in the comments where you think Phillips will be come the end of the window.
Danny Ings
Ings was hot property after his prolific goalscoring record in the 19/20 season for Southampton where he found the back of the net 22 times in the Premier League, however he has failed to replicate this since, and this season for West Ham, he's failed to record a single goal in 18 appearances, of which only 4 were starts. Ings looks to have fallen out of favour with David Moyes and a move away this window could be on the cards. Crystal Palace seem the likely destination for the Englishman at the moment. However, a return to Southampton hasn't be ruled out either, as the Saints' Ross Stewart is out for the remainder of the season. Wolves is another potential move, as their depth in attack weakened this week with Sasa Kalajdzic returning to the Bundesliga, to join Eintracht Frankfurt. Soutampton's Che Adams is reportedly another potential replacement for Wolves, which if completed, would only strengthen the links of Ings to his old side Southampton. This isn't a move that West Ham are likely to block so we could definitely see movement with this deal.
Orel Mangala
Nuno Espírito Santo has not hidden away from claims that Forest need to trim their bloated squad, since his arrival at the City Ground, with him stating that "it is true that we want to reduce the number of players in the squad" and the absence of Mangala in his side has led to links away this window. This combined with the recent accusation by the Premier League that they have broken Profitability and Sustainability Rules, and although no punishment or sanctions have been imposed as of yet, may force Forests' hand to generate transfer income. Reports from Italy are linking Mangala with Napoli and Juventus, and a move could be completed this window.
Conor Gallagher
One of the most surprising additions to this list is Chelsea's Conor Gallagher, who's been one of their standout performers from this season. However, they are reportedly willing to listen to offers for the 23 year-old. London rivals Tottenham look the most interested in his services, which would make him their 3rd addition of the window, already adding Werner and Dragusin to Postecoglou's side. While this deal would be less surprising in the summer, a big fee could be enough to see him travel from West to North London this month.