5 Premier League stars who could leave their clubs in the January window

Ruben Neves
Ruben Neves has been heavily linked to some of Europe's biggest clubs like Manchester City

Every transfer window, hundreds of transfer rumors linking big names to big clubs emerge. But more often than not they turn out to be just rumors, nothing more.

With the constantly changing nature of the Premier League, players have to evolve accordingly. They need to be able to adapt to new strategies, new managers and new signings too.

It has been observed recently that if a club appoints a new manager and a player who might've been a crucial component of the team previously can't adapt to the manager's tactics, he is either put on the bench or transferred out. What happened to Joe Hart once Pep Guardiola arrived at City is the best example of such a scenario.

On the other hand, some players just become too good for their clubs, and for their own personal development need to look for bigger challenges and better opportunities elsewhere.

With the new season already underway, there have been quite a few players in the news regarding their futures. So without further ado, here's the list of 5 players who look certain to move in January.


#5 Gary Cahill

England Media Access
Cahill hasn't played a single minute of football this season

The experienced center-back who was also Chelsea's captain last season feels it is time to move on. With him yet to start a Premier League match under new manager Sarri, his time at Stamford Bridge might be over soon.

Right now he is not the first choice center-back for The Blues. And according to The Sun, he is ready to quit Chelsea if he doesn't get enough playtime. Sarri has assured the players outside the starting eleven of a start in the domestic cups and Europa League.

An experienced player like Cahill who has won almost every major honour with the London based club would like to play some first team football before hanging his boots. Thus it is highly possible that this Chelsea star leaves this January.

#4 Anthony Martial

Burnley FC v Manchester United - Premier League
Martial has only featured in one fixture for Manchester United so far

The young Frenchmen could be on the move this January, he recently put his contract talks on hold. Reports suggest that he has fallen out of favour with Mourinho, and with no first team playtime in sight, he might be sold off this January, to prevent him from leaving on a free transfer.

Martial has only played a total of 60 minutes in the Premier League this season. According to reports, if he decides to leave, the possible suitors for him could be Arsenal or Tottenham. The Sun reported that Martial is not ready to commit until he is sure about the situation with Mourinho.

Martial is a talented young player, and will not find it difficult to move away from The Red Devils.

#3 Cesc Fabregas

Chelsea v Manchester United - The Emirates FA Cup Final
Fabregas is being linked to a move to Serie A

The World Cup winning Spaniard finds himself way down in the pecking order under new manager Sarri. Fabregas, now 31-years-old, is unlikely to be offered a new contract with Chelsea and with his current contract expiring next summer, Chelsea might be willing to listen to offers in January.

The Mirror reported that he is a potential target of AC Milan. Reportedly Inter Milan have also joined the race, but are willing to wait until he becomes a free agent.

So given his contract situation and interest expressed by AC Milan, this Spain and former Barcelona star might very well be on the move this January, rather than leaving as a free agent next summer.

#2 Mousa Dembélé

Stoke City v Tottenham Hotspur - Premier League
Dembélé's contract expires next season, which might prompt Spurs to sell him this January

Mousa Dembélé has been a star player for Spurs, but also one of the underrated midfielders of the league in recent years. He is known for his physical presence and passing ability.

Like many players on this list, his contract expires next summer. Amid interests from the Chinese League, Spurs may be willing to listen to offers for him, according to Bleacher Report.

Juventus are also interested in him, but would like to see his contract expire before making any move, Calcio Mercato reported.

With him not being a first team regular, and with the money Chinese clubs could offer for him, he might be on his way out of the league in the next transfer window.

#1 Ruben Neves

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Ajax - Pre-Season Friendly
Recent reports suggest PSG are interested in signing Ruben Neves as well

The 21-year-old midfield sensation has been linked with a move to Manchester City and Manchester United in the past. But if recent reports are to be believed, French giants PSG are 'interested' in him as well.

Calcio Mercato reported that PSG are tracking his performances, after a brilliant start to the Premier League season. With such big names competing for the former Porto player, it is all but clear that he will not be wearing the Wolverhampton jersey come this January.

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Edited by Anthony Akatugba Jr.