The January transfer window is still weeks away, but several Premier League giants are already being linked with major moves as clubs prepare to strengthen their squads for the second half of the 2026/27 season.
The winter transfer market is beginning to heat up, with Arsenal reportedly monitoring Club Brugge striker Nicolò Tresoldi, Chelsea and Liverpool linked with Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, and Manchester United considering attacking reinforcements.
Although no agreement has been confirmed for these reported deals, the latest rumours suggest that January could provide plenty of drama for English football fans.
The window is scheduled to open on January 1, 2027, and close on February 1, giving clubs a limited period to address weaknesses, respond to injuries and strengthen their ambitions for the remainder of the campaign.
Here are some of the biggest transfer stories to watch.
1. Arsenal reportedly interested in Nicolò Tresoldi
Arsenal are being linked with a potential January move for Club Brugge forward Nicolò Tresoldi as Mikel Arteta considers additional attacking options.
The 22-year-old German Under-21 international has reportedly impressed during the opening months of the 2026/27 campaign, attracting attention with his goalscoring performances in Belgium and the Champions League.
According to reports published by The Sun and covered by TNT Sports, Arsenal are considering a move for the striker, who could reportedly command a fee of around £42 million. Italian giants AC Milan are also said to be interested, potentially creating competition for his signature.
Tresoldi’s reported availability will be particularly interesting for Arsenal supporters because the club may want additional firepower as the season enters its decisive stages.
A new forward could provide Arteta with another option in matches where his current attacking players struggle to break down stubborn defences. However, whether Arsenal make a formal offer remains unclear.
For now, Tresoldi is a player to watch rather than a confirmed Arsenal target in active negotiations
2. Chelsea and Liverpool linked with Alex Scott
Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott is emerging as one of the most talked-about potential Premier League transfers ahead of January.
Chelsea have previously been linked with attempts to sign the England international, while Liverpool have also been mentioned as a possible destination.
Reports suggest Bournemouth could consider a substantial offer, with some coverage placing their potential valuation at around £100 million. That figure would make a deal difficult, even for clubs with significant financial resources.
Scott’s appeal lies in his ability to contribute in midfield through his passing, movement and work rate. For Chelsea, his arrival could offer another option in the middle of the pitch, while Liverpool could view him as a possible long-term addition to their midfield department.
However, Bournemouth are under no obligation to sell their player during the winter window. A high valuation could also force interested clubs to consider alternative targets.
The situation is worth following because previous reported interest gives the story more background than a rumour based solely on speculation. Nevertheless, a January transfer is far from guaranteed.
3. Manchester United consider a move for Jean-Philippe Mateta
Manchester United are reportedly monitoring Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as they consider options to strengthen their attack.
According to recent reporting by talkSPORT, United are considering a possible January move for the French forward. The report links the interest to the club’s need for additional attacking depth.
Mateta could appeal to United because of his physical presence, ability to occupy central defenders and experience in the Premier League. A forward who already understands English football could also adapt more quickly than a player arriving from another league.
Crystal Palace’s position could influence the situation. Reports have suggested that Mateta’s contract situation may become relevant if the club cannot agree on an extension.
However, United would still need to decide whether Mateta fits their recruitment plans and whether Palace would accept an offer during the season.
Supporters should therefore treat the story as reported interest rather than evidence that negotiations have been completed.
4. Manchester United’s interest in Jarrad Branthwaite resurfaces
Another name linked with Manchester United is Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
United have previously pursued the centre-back, with Everton resisting offers in 2024. Recent transfer coverage has revived speculation that the Manchester club could revisit their interest.
Branthwaite’s age, defensive qualities and experience in English football could make him an attractive long-term option for a side seeking greater stability at the back.
However, Everton would have little reason to sell cheaply, particularly with the defender tied to a long-term contract. Losing an established centre-back midway through the season could also create a difficult replacement problem.
Any potential deal would depend on United’s budget, Everton’s valuation and whether both clubs believe a January agreement is beneficial.
At this stage, there is no confirmed agreement between the clubs.
5. Tottenham reportedly monitor Chelsea defender Malo Gusto
Tottenham Hotspur have also entered the rumour mill, with reports linking them to Chelsea right-back Malo Gusto.
According to Football365, Tottenham are monitoring the defender amid uncertainty surrounding Pedro Porro’s future. The same report discusses Liverpool’s interest in Gusto and the possibility that Chelsea would want to assess their own defensive options before considering a departure.
Gusto could be an attractive option because of his ability to operate at right-back and contribute to attacking play. However, a deal between two London rivals would be complicated by Chelsea’s valuation and their own squad requirements.
Chelsea are not reported to be forcing the defender out, meaning Tottenham would likely need a substantial offer and a willingness from the selling club to negotiate.
The situation remains speculative, but it is another story that could gain momentum as January approaches.
What should fans expect from the January window?
The early rumours point to several different priorities across the Premier League. Arsenal are being linked with an attacking addition, Chelsea and Liverpool could compete for midfield talent, Manchester United are exploring options in attack and defence, while Tottenham are reportedly assessing their right-back situation.
Still, January transfers are often more complicated than summer deals. Selling clubs may demand higher fees because they have less time to find replacements, while buying clubs must weigh the immediate benefit of a signing against the cost.
Injuries, league positions, contract negotiations and the availability of alternative targets could all change the direction of these stories before the window opens.
For supporters, the most important distinction is between a club monitoring a player, submitting an official bid and reaching an agreement. Those are very different stages of a transfer.
As January draws closer, more reliable information should emerge about which clubs are prepared to spend and which players are genuinely available.
For now, the Premier League transfer rumour mill is warming up—and the coming weeks could reveal which stories have substance and which will disappear before deadline day.
