One Player Each Premier League Club Should Sign

Arsenal

As an Arsenal fan, I can confidently say our defense is incredible. Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba form one of the best center-back pairings in the world, and we have plenty of depth in full-back positions with players like Riccardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber, and Oleksandr Zinchenko.

However, Arsenal's attack this season is largely being carried by Bukayo Saka, who has been one of the Premier League's standout performers. The likes of Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard have struggled to match his brilliance, leaving fans calling for an attacking signing in January. With Saka now facing a potential extended absence due to a hamstring injury, the need for reinforcements is even more urgent.

Antoine Semenyo, a 24-year-old forward at Bournemouth, could be the answer. He’s a powerful, direct player who can cover all three attacking positions while Saka is out, and he could also challenge for a starting spot under Mikel Arteta.

Aston Villa

Unai Emery and Aston Villa have done well to build a deep squad, with ambitions of securing a top-four finish and advancing in the Champions League this season. However, with Matty Cash as the only recognized first-choice right-back and injury concerns surrounding him, Villa should target a right-back in January.

Michael Kayode, a 20-year-old right-back at Fiorentina, could be an excellent addition. Villa previously showed interest in him, reportedly bidding €15m last year. Kayode is comfortable on the ball, capable of carrying it forward, and isn't afraid to use his weaker left foot, making him a solid defensive asset for Villa.

Bournemouth

Bournemouth, under Andoni Iraola, are emerging as one of the league’s most exciting teams. With the Premier League's third-youngest squad, they boast top talents attracting interest from clubs like Real Madrid, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United.

Scottish midfielder Ryan Christie has been crucial to Iraola’s system, starting all but two games this season. However, with Alex Scott and Tyler Adams dealing with injuries, Bournemouth should consider finding a long-term replacement for Christie.

Carney Chukwuemeka, signed by Chelsea from Aston Villa in the summer of 2022/23, is a highly talented midfielder. Unfortunately, Chelsea’s scattergun transfer strategy and frequent injuries have limited his opportunities. This season, he has often been excluded from matchday squads, seemingly forgotten.

Chukwuemeka is a versatile, technical midfielder and an excellent ball carrier who adapts well to different tactical systems. He would thrive under Iraola’s style of play and could be a great addition to Bournemouth.

Brentford

Brentford currently have five senior defenders sidelined due to injury, including full-backs Rico Henry and Aaron Hickey, both out for extended periods. Their away performances have been poor compared to their home form, with the team conceding too many goals on the road.

To address this, Brentford need to strengthen their defense, particularly in the full-back positions. Young winger Keane Lewis-Potter has frequently filled in at left-back this season.

A strong solution would be to re-sign Sergio Reguilón from Tottenham Hotspur. The 28-year-old Spanish full-back spent time on loan at Brentford during the 2023/24 season, making 17 appearances and becoming a fan favorite. Many supporters still hope for his return.

Reguilón appears to be out of Ange Postecoglou's plans at Spurs, having played just one minute in all competitions this season. At this stage in his career, the Europa League winner should seek a move to a club where he can play regularly.

Brighton

Brighton has earned a strong reputation for developing young talent, exemplified by players like Moisés Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister, and Marc Cucurella. Their commitment to nurturing emerging stars makes them an attractive destination for young European players aiming to establish themselves in the Premier League. With recurring injuries to right-backs Joel Veltman and Tariq Lamptey, Brighton should prioritize strengthening this position.

Devyne Rensch would be a valuable addition, offering much-needed depth and competition in defense. His versatility and potential align perfectly with young German coach Fabian Hürzeler progressive philosophy, making him an ideal fit for the team. Rensch excels in ball retention, progressive passing, and adapting to various roles, providing tactical flexibility and enabling seamless formation changes. His pace, strength, and defensive solidity make him well-suited for the Premier League’s demands.

At just 21 years old, Rensch has significant potential to develop into one of Europe’s top defenders. Signing him would immediately bolster Brighton’s defensive options while serving as a strategic investment for the club’s long-term ambitions.

Chelsea

Chelsea have been impressive under Enzo Maresca this season and, despite some denial from fans, are in a title race in January, sitting 3rd, just 7 points behind leaders Liverpool.

Todd Boehly’s Chelsea has spent nearly €1bn in recent years, building a squad with strong depth in almost every position. However, to truly strengthen their defense, Chelsea still need to invest in a top centre-back.

Levi Colwill is Maresca’s preferred left centre-back, but at right centre-back, minutes have been shared between the injury-prone Wesley Fofana, new signing Tosin Adarabioyo, and left-footed Benoit Badiashile.

To push for the title, Chelsea should target Ilia Zabaryni from Bournemouth. Zabaryni is a strong tackler, excellent in the air, and composed on the ball. His skills would fit perfectly into Maresca's system.

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace ended last season strongly after replacing Roy Hodgson with Oliver Glasner, who joined from Frankfurt. Many expected them to carry that momentum into the new season, but instead, they find themselves near the bottom of the table in a relegation battle.

During the summer, Palace bolstered their defense by signing young talents Maxence Lacroix and Trevor Chalobah (on loan from Chelsea). Despite a talented squad, they still need an all-around central midfielder to compete for a starting role.

Adem Zorgane, a 24-year-old Algerian midfielder playing for Royal Charleroi in Belgium, could be a perfect fit. Known for his flair, technical ability, and ambidextrous playmaking, Zorgane is an excellent ball carrier who can contribute both offensively and defensively. Standing at 6'0", he is physically imposing and thrives as a box-to-box midfielder with impressive stamina. Averaging 2.2 tackles and 1.1 interceptions per game, he could complement players like Jefferson Lerma and Cheikh Doucoure, who handle most of the defensive workload under Glasner's system.

Everton

Everton had a poor start to the season but have recently improved, earning crucial points against Arsenal, Man City, and Chelsea, boosting their confidence.

Manager Sean Dyche, known for keeping teams safe from relegation, has a track record of finding ways to stay in the league. However, Everton's main issue this season has been creating chances and scoring goals. Despite having four strikers and Iliman Ndiaye impressing on the left wing, their biggest need is a quality right winger.

Dennis Man, a left-footed Romanian winger currently playing for Parma in Serie A, could be a great fit. He shone at Euro 2024, scoring twice against Ukraine, and is a versatile attacker who has transitioned from center forward to primarily playing on the right flank. While his defensive game isn't his strongest asset, he is willing to press and track back when needed.

Fulham

Fulham are flying this season with Marco Silva. The West London club have been described by many as the ‘ Band of Misfits’ eluding to their transfer strategy of picking up young talents or unwanted players from other premier league. The like of Iwobi, Perreira, Smith Rowe, Nelson and more were all purchased from rivalling premier league teams. 

I believe that Fulham can improve their attack/midfield by improving their wing options, more specifically on the right wing. I also believe that they can do this by somewhat sticking to the transfer strategy which has worked wonders for them in the past. 

James McAtee is an attacking midfielder or winger who is currently at Man City but is struggling for minutes despite the teams poor form. James McAtee looked like the one shining light in a Sheffield Utd side that eventually got relegated last season. 

McAtee is a dynamic attacking midfielder celebrated for his technical ability, creativity, and knack for scoring goals. His sharp dribbling, exceptional vision, and smart off-the-ball movement make him a constant threat in attack, while his strong pressing adds defensive value. Frequently likened to David Silva, McAtee’s blend of skill and tactical intelligence underscores his potential to thrive at the highest level.

Ipswich

Ipswich have exceeded expectations this season, even though they remain near the bottom of the table and are still relegation favorites. Fans feel their performances deserve better results. Manager Kieran McKenna, highly regarded among Premier League clubs, has been linked with jobs at Manchester United and Chelsea in the past.

In the upcoming transfer window, Ipswich should revisit their interest in a player they targeted last summer. They need a winger with strong 1v1 skills and dynamism.

Jaden Philogene, a young English winger at Aston Villa and an England U21 regular, could be a great fit. Despite struggling for game time this season due to injuries, inconsistent form, and competition from players like Morgan Rogers and John McGinn, Philogene is known for his exceptional dribbling, speed, and ambidextrous ball control. He combines athleticism with technical ability, averaging 2.79 successful take-ons and 4.88 progressive carries per 90 minutes in 2023/24, along with a solid defensive work rate of 2.5 tackles per game.

Leicester

Leicester City are enduring a tough 2024/25 season, having replaced former manager Steve Cooper with ex-Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy. Defensive struggles have been a key issue, with the team conceding 42 goals so far.

To turn their season around, Leicester should focus on strengthening their defense in the transfer window. One potential target is 24-year-old Dutch defender Armando Obispo. A PSV Eindhoven academy graduate, Obispo is technically skilled, defensively strong, and versatile, capable of playing as both a center-back and left-back. His composure on the ball and tackling ability make him a great fit for a possession-based style.

Having already played under Van Nistelrooy at PSV, Obispo brings familiarity with the manager’s system, along with experience in the Eredivisie and European competitions. His leadership and consistency could provide the stability Leicester’s defense desperately needs.

Liverpool

Liverpool have been outstanding this season under Arne Slot. They’re the highest-scoring team in the Premier League, 8 points clear at the top of the table, and also leading in the Champions League. Their attack is in top form, and they’ve conceded the second fewest goals. Mohamed Salah has been exceptional, already contributing over 10 goals and assists before January.

However, Liverpool fans are concerned about the form of long-time left-back Andy Robertson. Since joining in 2017, Robertson has been key to Liverpool’s success, but his performances have dipped this season, with manager Arne Slot preferring Kostas Tsimikas over him.

Reports have linked Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez to Liverpool, but I believe Arne Slot would benefit more from a different type of left-back.

Jorrel Hato, who can play both center-back and left-back, would be a great addition. At just 18, he has plenty of potential and could thrive under Slot’s guidance. Hato is a strong defender, good in the air, and comfortable with the ball, fitting well into Liverpool's possession-based style. His experience with Ajax and in European competitions would help him adjust quickly to the Premier League, offering both immediate depth and long-term potential for the team.

Man City

Manchester City are enduring a tough season, with just three wins in their last 15 games. Despite being favorites to win the Premier League for a record fifth consecutive time, they currently sit 6th in the table, far from their usual dominance.

The team has struggled with a season-ending injury to Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, the absence of Mateo Kovacic, and poor form from Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne. Pep Guardiola has acknowledged the need for reinforcements in midfield during the January transfer window.

Atalanta’s Éderson would be an ideal signing for City. A versatile box-to-box midfielder, he offers defensive solidity with his tackling and interceptions while also driving play forward with his passing and ball-carrying. His physicality suits the Premier League, and his experience in Serie A and European competitions shows he can perform at the top level. Éderson’s ability to play multiple midfield roles would add depth, flexibility, and much-needed energy to Guardiola’s squad.

Manchester United

Manchester United, now managed by Ruben Amorim, are still adjusting to his 3-4-2-1 system. Amorim doesn’t yet have the right players for his preferred setup, and while they’ve invested in young strikers Hojlund and Zirkzee, he’s still uncertain about them. Neither is a proven goalscorer, and signing a top striker in January may be difficult.

United also lacks a solution for the left wing-back/left midfield positions, especially with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia injured.

Alvaro Fernandez Carreras, a young left-back/wing-back who was sold to Benfica last summer, could be a great option. United inserted a £16m buy-back clause in his contract, which is a bargain in today’s market. At 6 feet tall, Carreras has the physicality, versatility, and attacking instincts needed for Amorim’s system.

Newcastle United

Newcastle United’s 2024/25 season has been a mix of strong moments and inconsistency. They sit in the top half of the Premier League, largely driven by the attacking partnership of Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon. However, injuries to key players like Bruno Guimarães and defensive issues have hindered their progress.

To strengthen their attack, Newcastle need a new right winger. While Miguel Almirón works hard, his inconsistency in front of goal limits the team’s potential. A fast, skillful winger with a solid end product would add balance to the attack and complement Isak and Gordon. This would help Newcastle break down tough defenses and boost their chances in both domestic and European competitions.

Johan Bakayoko from PSV Eindhoven could be the perfect addition. Known for his pace, dribbling, and creativity, he would bring flair and attacking threat to the right wing, helping Newcastle unlock stubborn defenses and strengthen their overall attacking play.

Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest, under Nuno Espirito Santo, have been exceptional this season. As of now, they sit 2nd in the Premier League with the second-most wins, a remarkable achievement considering many had predicted they would be battling relegation. Instead, they find themselves ahead of major clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, Man City, and Man Utd.

While Forest have a strong starting XI and top players in every position, maintaining their impressive form will require additional depth in multiple areas. To continue competing at a high level, bringing in a versatile signing would provide the team with more options and cover, particularly in midfield and on the wings.

Ismaël Saibari would be an ideal addition to Nottingham Forest. Known for his creativity, vision, and technical skills, he could provide a spark in attack and help control the flow of the game. His versatility allows him to play in different midfield roles, offering Forest tactical flexibility. Saibari’s ability to break down opposition defenses and contribute to build-up play would strengthen Forest’s squad, offering crucial depth in a demanding Premier League season.

Southampton

Southampton are in a bad position in the league right now. Sitting bottom of the league with picking up only 6 points at the time of writing. Southampton’s defenders are just clearly not good enough to play in the Premier League. 

Ben Cabango is a Welsh centre back who is playing at Swansea and is highly rated. With Southampton likely to get relegated down to the Championship this season, recruiting from the league already feels like a good idea. Ben Cabnago is a 24 year old right footed centre back who is already established in the championship. He is comfortable on the ball and has been an integral part of Swansea’s push to get into the Play Off positions. 

Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur have had a difficult start to the season, with injury problems affecting several key positions. The midfield, in particular, has been an issue, as Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur have struggled with fitness and form. While young talents like Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall show promise, Spurs need a more experienced, Premier League-ready midfielder to strengthen their squad.

Douglas Luiz, who joined Juventus from Aston Villa this summer, has found limited game time in Turin and seems to be out of manager Thiago Motta’s plans. Having been a regular starter at Villa, Luiz could be a good fit for Spurs, and they may be able to sign him on loan or at a cut-price deal. Given their recent dealings with Juventus, including the transfers of Bentancur and Kulusevski, this could be a move worth pursuing.

West Ham United

West Ham have struggled with goal-scoring this season, with Jarrod Bowen filling in as a makeshift striker due to Michail Antonio’s injury and Niclas Füllkrug’s fitness issues. Brighton's talented 20-year-old striker Evan Ferguson, who has scored 13 Premier League goals, including a hat-trick against Newcastle, has been linked with top clubs but has been slowed by injuries.

A loan move to West Ham could offer Ferguson the playing time and confidence he needs to regain his form. With competition at Brighton from Danny Welbeck, Jørgen Rutter, and João Pedro, a temporary switch to a big club like West Ham could provide him the opportunity to step into a first-team role.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

Wolves are battling relegation and recently fired manager Gary O’Neil. New manager Vitor Ferreira is focused on improving their defensive weaknesses. With key defender Yerson Mosquera out for the season due to an ACL injury, and Nelson Semedo and Mario Lemina playing out of position, Wolves need an experienced and versatile defender.

Ben Godfrey, a 26-year-old English defender, left Everton for Atalanta last summer but has only played 22 minutes in Serie A this season. Having over 100 Premier League appearances for Norwich and Everton, he’s an experienced option who can play across the defense. Given his lack of playing time at Atalanta, the club may be willing to loan him out, making a move back to the Premier League likely.

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