The January transfer window of 2025 is closing once again but, as this year, clubs across Europe will have until 3 February to close a deal. Because mid-season transfer are notoriously difficult to complete, as the window creaks toward its conclusion clubs can often be seen scrambling to strengthen their squads in the final days, resulting in frantic last-minute activity. Here are seven names who could steal the headlines late in the game:
Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford’s days at Manchester United seem numbered under new manager Ruben Amorim, who recently said that he would choose to put his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach on the pitch instead of having a player who wasn’t willing to give “the maximum.”
A loan switch seems more likely given the size of Rashford’s wages, with Barcelona considered one strong contender to sign him ahead of next season, irrespective of their current financial issues. AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund are also tracking the matter, with more suitors likely to appear in the next few months as the deadline approaches.
Benjamin Šeško
At the same time, Arsenal will desperately need attacking reinforcements after Gabriel Jesus suffered an ACL injury and Bukayo Saka is expected to be sidelined for some time. Manager Mikel Arteta has been set on reinforcements, with Benjamin Šeško of RB Leipzig alongside the goals.
But Leipzig are unwilling to lose the striker during the season. That would mean Arsenal having to wait until the summer unless they can strike a deal in the next few days.
Christopher Nkunku
Christopher Nkunku has struggled for consistency at Chelsea, as injuries have derailed his maiden season in the Premier League. More than weary with his limited role, Nkunku is attracting interest from Bayern Munich.
The Bavarians are said to be considering a late move but only if Mathys Tel leaves on loan.
Patrick Dorgu
United are keen to improve their options at wing-back having him down as one of their primary targets in the role alongside Danish international Patrick Dorgu. Despite rejected bids, United will be hopeful of returning with a higher offer to meet Lecce’s €40m ($43.6m) valuation.
Napoli are also interested, monitoring the versatile defender closely.
Alejandro Garnacho
And whilst Garnacho is back in favor at United, his long-term future remains uncertain. Napoli are keen on the Argentine as a replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, while Chelsea can also join the race with a swap deal involving Christopher Nkunku.
Matheus Cunha
Wolves’ talisman Matheus Cunha has been outstanding this season but his ongoing contract dilemma has turned heads. Retaining Cunha is critical with Wolves fighting for their Premier League lives, but desperation from rival clubs could cause a better-off team to send a big-money offer.
Axel Disasi
Aston Villa have agreed personal terms with Chelsea centre-back Axel Disasi, who is eager to join Villa Park before the end of the window.
Disasi moved to Chelsea for £38.5m in the summer of 2023 and was a regular starter in Mauricio Pochettino’s first season. But the arrival of Enzo Maresca has seen him slip down the pecking order. As they seek to shore up their backline, Villa are well-placed to offer him a clean slate.
With little time left on the clock, expect a mad finale to the January transfer window as these deals develop.
