6 of the most in-demand players in the January transfer window

January is a tricky period to negotiate big deals. Many top targets are cup-tied, making them ineligible to play for the new club in the remainder of that season's cup competition. Also, many managers felt it’s hard to find good value in the January transfer window.

However, many big deals have happened in the past during winter. Fernando Torres, Luis Suarez, Juan Mata, Lucas Moura, Alex Teixeira, and David Luiz have switched clubs in January.

Some teams are forced into the January transfer window to save their ailing campaign. Clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Arsenal are in dire need of reinforcements and we have some high-profile names looking to switch clubs in January.

On that note, let's have a look at the most in-demand players in the 2018 January transfer window.

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#6 Alex Sandro (Juventus)

Arguably one of the best left backs in world football, it doesn't seem like rumours regarding his future will end anytime soon. He was linked with Chelsea for the whole of 2017 summer transfer window, but, Juventus stood firm and rejected all the offers.

After moving to Juventus in 2015, Sandro played a stellar role in their back to back league title wins and reaching the 2016/17 Champions League finals. The Brazilian's work-rate is simply phenomenal, along with his pace and power. He is equally good at defending and going forward.

There are rumours that the Italian club is lining up his replacement and if it happens, there won't be any shortage of suitors for the 26-year-old. Manchester United and Chelsea are very much interested in signing the £53million-rated defender. He possesses all the qualities to shine in the Premier League.

#5 Nabil Fekir (Lyon)

Everton FC v Olympique Lyon - UEFA Europa League

The 24-year-old French starlet is one of the hottest properties in European football. With 13 goals and 4 assists in 16 Ligue One appearances so far this season, Nabil Fekir is under the radar of many top European clubs, especially the likes of Arsenal and Real Madrid.

Zinedine Zidane in 2015 said, " Nabil is an incredible player. He impressed me technically". Fekir plays primarily as an attacking midfielder or on the left. He impressed everyone this season with his movement and passing. His finishing has been superb and he is quite composed on the ball.

At just 24, he is playing the best football of his career and will only get better. It will be really hard for Lyon to hold on to their prized asset and January move is on the cards.

#4 Mesut Ozil (Arsenal)

King os Assists, Mesut Ozil

This man needs no introduction and is one of the best no.10 in world football right now. His Arsenal contract expires this summer and he is yet to sign a new one. The 29-year-old can leave for free in the summer and many top European clubs are waiting for his signature.

The "assist-king" of Europen football is known for his creative prowess. With 107 assists, Mesut Ozil has played a hand in most goals by midfielders in Europe's top 5 leagues since 2009/10. His control, passing range, and vision are simply exceptional.

Jose Mourinho is a fan of the German and is desperate to sign him. Barcelona too are showing interest in the Arsenal playmaker. Certainly one of the most in-demand players in European football currently.

#3 Julian Draxler (Paris Saint-Germain)

Paris Saint-Germain v Celtic FC - UEFA Champions League

A player of his calibre needs to start more often than not and it is not happening for him in PSG because of the likes of Neymar Jr, Kylian Mbappe, and Edinson Cavani. Julian Draxler is considered the best reserve in world football.

The 24-year-old is one of the most exciting talents in European football. A two-footed attacking midfielder, Draxler can play with equal aplomb on the left. Known for his speed and dribbling, Draxler is also an exceptional finisher.

Signed only in January 2017 from Wolfsburg, the German's future has been the subject of intense speculation at Parc des Princes. PSG have reportedly named their price for Draxler and Arsenal are very much interested in the midfielder. They are set to lose Sanchez and Ozil, and a loan deal or permanent transfer is definitely on the cards this January.

#2 Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal)

Arsenal FC v Borussia Dortmund - UEFA Champions League

One of the most gifted players in world football, the Chilean's future certainly lies away from the Emirates. He is desperate for a move and clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City and Real Madrid to an extent are interested in his signature.

Capable of playing anywhere along the front line, Sanchez possesses an excellent technical ability and is a brilliant finisher. He is known for his work-rate, along with his pace and creativity. He has scored 72 goals and assisted 32 more in his last 4 season for Barcelona and Arsenal in the league.

His Arsenal contract expires in 6 months and Sanchez can leave for free in the summer. Arsenal are already lining up his replacements and may look to cash in on him in January.

#1 Leon Goretzka (Schalke 04)

One of Europe's hottest prospects

Leon Goretzka is one of the most sought-after players in European football. The 22-year-old made his 100th Bundesliga appearance this season and has already played 12 times for Germany despite his young age.

Goretzka can play as a defensive midfielder, as well as a left or right winger. He is excellent in aerial battles and prolific in winning the ball back in the midfield areas. He is known for his ball control and ability to pick out accurate passes.

He is out of contract this summer and majority of the top European clubs like Liverpool, Arsenal and Barcelona are interested in the German, but it looks like Bayern Munich is close to agreeing to a deal for the midfielder. At only 22, he is certainly the future of German football.