For clubs stuck at the bottom of the table, the January transfer window can act as a lifeline. With relegation fears growing and momentum hard to find, it is tempting to believe that a few smart signings can transform a struggling season. History shows that this can happen, but it is far from guaranteed. For Premier League clubs currently struggling, we look at their chances of unearthing a gem this transfer window.
When January Signings Work
Before looking at where the current Premier League strugglers may seek to strengthen, we wanted to highlight some past examples of winter recruits bailing out relegation-threatened teams. Bruno Guimaraes for Newcastle in 2022 and Brede Hangeland for Fulham in 2008 are both prime examples of a new player having a transformative effect through their quality, experience and leadership skills.
Other instances include Jurgen Klinsmann’s second spell at Tottenham. On loan from Sampdoria, he scored nine league goals in 15 appearances, finishing as Spurs’ top scorer despite missing more than half the season. Similarly, you have West Ham’s signatures of John Hartson and Paul Kitson in 2007. Kitson chipped in with eight league goals, and Hartson added another five. Without the pair, the Hammers surely would have gone down, given they finished just two points above the bottom trio.
Wolves
There appears to be little hope of Wolves avoiding relegation this season, even if they enjoy a strong January window. A few fresh faces could at least help them avoid matching Derby County’s record-low total of 11 points, mind you. Attracting players will be difficult with relegation looking almost certain, and there is also limited incentive for the owners to spend heavily when survival is unlikely. So, Wolves are likely to focus on preparing for next season and looking for opportunistic bargains rather than pursuing high-profile targets.
They were previously linked with Lazio goalkeeper Christos Mandas, but that interest has since cooled. One complication is that Wolves have already filled their non-homegrown quota, meaning they would need to sell a non-homegrown player to register a new one. While they do have sellable assets such as Joao Gomes or Jorgen Strand Larsen, selling key players would only weaken the squad further.
Burnley
Burnley are not in a position to make major investments this January, even though Scott Parker would welcome reinforcements across the pitch. With one of the league’s worst defensive records and limited attacking output, improvements are needed in multiple areas.
One player they have been linked with is Tottenham forward Alejo Veliz, currently on loan at Rosario Central. The 22-year-old is not favoured at Spurs and could be available for a modest fee, reportedly around £5m. A deal like this, or one or two similar low-cost additions, is the most Burnley can realistically hope for during the window. Having netted one league goal for Espanyol last season, Veliz hardly seems like the sort of transfer that will make a big impact. Signing anyone of real quality is going to be a massive issue for Burnley, and it is hard to see how their limited activity will steer them clear of relegation.
West Ham
Of the struggling sides, West Ham appear the most likely to invest in January. The club are expected to back Nuno Espírito Santo with funds made available for new signings. Part of the spending could be funded by the sale of Lucas Paqueta, whose future remains uncertain. Regardless of how much is available, signing a striker is one priority. Goals have been in short supply, and Jorgen Strand Larsen is a leading target to remedy this. The Norwegian has struggled since the summer, but scored 14 league goals for Wolves last year and would offer a physical presence up front.
Another option is Mojmir Chytil from the Czech league. While his numbers in a fairly weak competition are far from eye-catching, he would represent a cheaper alternative. West Ham have also shown interest in Adama Traore, who could be available at a reduced price with his Fulham contract nearing expiry. Nuno is a long-term admirer of the 29-year-old and values his pace and power. Defensively, Toulouse centre-back Charlie Cresswell is firmly on the club’s radar. Valued at around €25m, the former Leeds defender would add aggression and aerial strength to a back line that has often struggled this season.
Nottingham Forest
After finishing seventh last season with 65 points, Nottingham Forest fans were not expecting a relegation fight this year. However, managerial instability and inconsistent performances have left them hovering close to the bottom three. With 18 points from 18 games, Forest are still on a survival course, but European commitments will stretch their squad. Despite this, January recruitment is likely to be cautious rather than aggressive as there is enough quality already in the side.
Dwight McNeil is one player reportedly under consideration. While Forest are well stocked in wide areas, McNeil is someone Dyche is a fan of, having worked with him at Everton and Burnley. The club may also look for striking cover, with Chris Wood likely sidelined for months following surgery or an extra option at left back. Oleksandr Zinchenko was brought in during the summer to provide cover here, but has struggled since moving to the City Ground.