What Does Your Club Need Before the Transfer Window Closes?

As the transfer window approaches its conclusion on 1 September, Premier League clubs are gearing up for a flurry of last-minute signings and strategic moves. With over £2 billion already spent this summer, clubs are keen to bolster their squads to improve performance for the upcoming season. Here’s a comprehensive look at the potential transfers and business each club is eyeing before the deadline.

Last updated: 31 August 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Bournemouth is seeking additional defensive and attacking reinforcements.
• Arsenal is expected to finalise the signing of Eberechi Eze following Kai Havertz's injury.
• Brentford may need to replace Yoane Wissa if he secures a move to Newcastle.
• Everton's David Moyes is frustrated with a lack of signings and prioritising a right-sided attacker.
• Newcastle is actively pursuing a striker to compensate for Callum Wilson's departure.

Clubs on the Move

Bournemouth: Defensive Rebuild Continues

Bournemouth has been actively rebuilding their squad after losing key defenders last season. With the departures of Milos Kerkez to Liverpool, Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid, and Illia Zabarnyi to Paris St-Germain, coach Andoni Iraola is still on the lookout for further additions. Recent signings like Adrien Truffert from Rennes and Bafode Diakite from Lille have bolstered their defence, but another defender is a priority. Additionally, the club is considering adding more competition for striker Evanilson to enhance their attacking options.

Arsenal: Late Moves in Response to Injury

Arsenal's transfer activity seemed largely complete with the additions of Martin Zubimendi and striker Viktor Gyokeres. However, a knee injury to Kai Havertz has prompted a potential move for Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, indicating a shift in their strategy. Should Eze join the Gunners, further signings are likely to depend on outgoings rather than incoming players.

Aston Villa: Seeking Offensive Reinforcements

Unai Emery's focus has been constrained by financial regulations, which led to the regrettable sale of Jacob Ramsey to Newcastle. Despite this, Villa is still in the market for an attacker, with links to Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson. The club may also revisit a loan deal for Marco Asensio, who impressed last season on loan from Paris St-Germain.

Brighton: Opportunistic Late Business

Brighton has already made significant moves in the transfer market, preparing for the sale of Joao Pedro to Chelsea. They have brought in young talent, including Charalampos Kostoulas and defenders Olivier Boscagli and Diego Coppola. However, the club remains vigilant for late opportunities, particularly to bolster their attack, especially considering the fitness issues with Danny Welbeck and Georginio Rutter.

Brentford: Navigating Potential Departures

Brentford has been proactive in their transfer dealings, welcoming Dango Ouattara from Bournemouth to replace Bryan Mbeumo, who has joined Manchester United. However, the potential departure of Yoane Wissa to Newcastle could complicate matters, and the Bees may need to secure a replacement. Additionally, Brentford might still pursue further midfield creativity following the loss of Christian Norgaard.

Burnley: Focus on Stability

Burnley has made 13 permanent signings this summer, mainly focusing on stability in their return to the Premier League. Manager Scott Parker is unlikely to pursue further transfers unless a compelling opportunity arises, particularly if they receive offers for key defender Maxime Esteve, who might prompt the search for a replacement.

Chelsea: A Busy Deadline Day Expected

As always, Chelsea has been a focal point of transfer speculation. Coach Enzo Maresca is keen to strengthen the forward line, targeting Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho and RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons. The club is also looking to offload several players, including Nicolas Jackson and Raheem Sterling, to make room for new signings. With a serious injury to Levi Colwill, defensive reinforcements are also on the agenda.

Crystal Palace: Anticipating Key Departures

Crystal Palace has experienced a quiet transfer window thus far but is expected to ramp up activity soon. The futures of captain Marc Guehi and forward Eberechi Eze hang in the balance, with Liverpool reportedly interested in Guehi and Arsenal looking to finalise Eze's move. The club is also linked with potential signings, including defender Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes and playmaker Bilal El Khannouss from Leicester City.

Everton: Frustration Amidst Transfer Drought

David Moyes has expressed his frustration over Everton's lack of signings, particularly in the attacking department. The club has been pursuing a right-sided attacker but has faced challenges, including failed negotiations for potential targets. They are also keen on bolstering their right-back position and adding depth to midfield to support veteran Idrissa Gueye.

Fulham: Late Moves in the Offing

Fulham has had a relatively quiet transfer window, but manager Marco Silva is keen to strengthen his squad, particularly in wide positions. The club has been linked with Shakhtar Donetsk’s Kevin and Arsenal’s Reiss Nelson. Additionally, with Raheem Sterling available and looking for a London-based club, this could present an intriguing opportunity.

Leeds United: Strengthening Key Areas

Leeds United has already made significant signings this summer, but manager Daniel Farke is still keen on reinforcing the final third and full-back positions. The club is reportedly close to finalising a move for AC Milan's Noah Okafor while also considering Leicester City’s James Justin for right-back.

Liverpool: Pursuing Defensive Depth

Liverpool's summer spending spree has seen the arrivals of notable players, including Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz. However, the club is still in need of defensive reinforcements following the departure of Jarell Quansah. Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi remains a primary target, alongside ongoing interest in Alexander Isak, despite a rejected £110 million offer.

Manchester City: Business As Usual

Manchester City has largely completed their transfer dealings, with an emphasis on strengthening their squad before the Club World Cup. The club remains open to opportunities but appears satisfied with their current roster. Any potential moves will depend on outgoings, with interest in goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma should Ederson leave.

Manchester United: Late Actions on the Horizon

Manchester United has invested heavily in their attack, but goalkeeping remains a concern with Andre Onana under scrutiny. The club has been linked with several goalkeeping prospects, including Gianluigi Donnarumma. Additionally, potential departures of Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund could pave the way for further activity in the transfer market.

Newcastle United: Striker Search Intensifies

Newcastle's summer has been overshadowed by Alexander Isak's uncertain future. Despite securing new signings, the club is primarily focused on acquiring a striker to replace Callum Wilson. Yoane Wissa is high on their list, but Brentford’s firm stance on his transfer complicates matters. The club may also explore other attacking options as the deadline approaches.

Nottingham Forest: Continued Ambitions

Nottingham Forest has already made significant investments this summer but is looking to add further depth. They are reportedly close to signing Douglas Luiz and are exploring options for right-sided defenders. With ambitions to strengthen their midfield, expect Forest to remain active in the market.

Sunderland: Bold Moves in the Championship

Sunderland has made 11 signings this summer, signalling their intent to compete in the Championship. The club is still pursuing attacking options and central defensive reinforcements, particularly focusing on Leicester City's Abdul Fatawu and Bologna’s Jhon Lucumi.

Tottenham Hotspur: Seeking Alternatives

Tottenham is expected to remain active as the deadline approaches, with a focus on strengthening their attacking options following injury blows. With Eberechi Eze’s move now unlikely, Spurs may turn to Brentford’s Yoane Wissa or explore alternatives in the wide positions and midfield.

West Ham United: Urgency for Midfield Reinforcements

West Ham has been in pursuit of midfield reinforcements throughout the summer. Following a disappointing performance against Sunderland, the urgency has heightened. Potential targets include Southampton's Mateus Fernandes and Barcelona's Marc Casado, as manager Graham Potter seeks to bolster creativity and defensive capabilities.

Wolverhampton Wanderers: Active Pursuit of Talent

Wolves have already made strides in the transfer market with the signing of Jackson Tchatchoua. However, head coach Vitor Pereira is still keen on adding an attacking midfielder and potentially a striker to support Jorgen Strand Larsen. Central defence is also an area of focus as they aim to strengthen their squad.

Conclusion

As the transfer deadline approaches, clubs across the Premier League are poised to make decisive moves that could shape their seasons. With various strategies in play, from strengthening key positions to addressing squad depth, the next few days will undoubtedly be crucial for club strategies and aspirations. Will your team make that crucial signing before the window closes?

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FAQs

What is the transfer deadline date for Premier League clubs?

The transfer deadline for Premier League clubs is 1 September at 23:00 BST.

How much have Premier League clubs spent this summer?

Premier League clubs have spent over £2 billion during the summer transfer window.

Which clubs are expected to be most active before the deadline?

Clubs like Bournemouth, Arsenal, and Newcastle United are expected to be particularly active as they seek to strengthen their squads.

What are the main positions clubs are looking to fill?

Clubs are focused on filling key positions, including strikers, defenders, and midfielders, to enhance their overall squad depth and performance.

What happens if clubs do not make the required signings by the deadline?

If clubs do not secure the desired signings, they may face challenges in competing effectively throughout the season, impacting their performance and results.