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With the busy Christmas period approaching, the Premier League is already in full swing. Each of the clubs has already found themselves their own battles to fight and for almost all of them, the January transfer window could be the right time to bring in some much-needed reinforcements.
It is, however, a seller's market in January. Not many big players usually want to leave their clubs midway through the season. The same goes for the clubs as well. Not many clubs would want to sell their star players in the middle of the season.
But transfers go through nonetheless. Disgruntled players, expiring contracts and lure of playing at the very highest level usually mean that January windows are usually the most exciting ones, with storylines developing all over the league.
And this January is no different.
Take a look at the 3 storylines in the Premier League that should take centre-stage during the winter window.
#3 Ramsey chooses his next destination
“Would I stay for the rest of the season? Of course, yeah, I am contracted to Arsenal and I am going to do my best to try and achieve something special.”
That is what Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsey had to say to the press when asked about his contract situation at Arsenal. His situation at the club has been widely publicised and while he has guaranteed to give it all to the Gunners, he will likely make his next destination of choice public sooner rather than later.
With Bayern and Real Madrid both lurking along with Chelsea and Manchester United, it is safe to say that the 27-year-old does not lack suitors. This storyline could go multiple ways with clubs free to talk to the Welshman with only six months left on his contract.
It will be interesting to say if Arsenal’s longest-tenured player decides to stay in the premier league or moves to the continent in search of his new club.
#2 Fabregas looks for playing time
Cesc Fabregas has had a rough time at Chelsea ever since Maurizio Sarri has taken over. The 31-year-old Spaniard has been on the outside looking in for Chelsea’s first team.
The one-time Arsenal captain is only second in Premier League assists to Ryan Giggs, who has 111 and has been one of the most influential midfielders of his generation in England.
However, with a lack of playing time, Fabregas could be on the move in January. Perennially linked to both the Milan sides, the rumour mills have heated up following rumours that the former Barcelona playmaker is a top target for AC Milan director Leonardo, while Inter’s new CEO Beppe Marotta also keeping tabs on the player.
With Simeone’s Atletico and former manager Mourinho’s Manchester United interested as well, this could be an interesting January for Fabregas.
#1 Alexis ends his Manchester United nightmare
Despite showing signs of life recently, Alexis Sanchez’s Manchester United career has been nothing short of disappointing. After choosing the Old Trafford outfit over neighbours City, Sanchez has failed to live up to expectations for the Red Devils.
With Sanchez reportedly earning close to €450,000 a week, his wage has also led to major disruptions among the United squad, with star players like Paul Pogba and David de Gea demanding raises. That along with reports that Alexis has failed to settle into the United dressing room following his move from Arsenal in January has been enough to intrigue clubs all over Europe.
And while his wage will make it difficult for his agents, it has been reported that both Real Madrid and PSG are keeping a close eye on the Chilean. If these reports pan out to be true, we could all be in for a very interesting January window.
