Premier League players who may still transfer during this window

With less than a week remaining in the January transfer window, Premier League clubs and players are under pressure to finalize their moves.

This month has been relatively quiet, but there is a possibility for an exciting conclusion, as several players are still seeking new opportunities.

Whether they have been sidelined by their clubs, requested a transfer, encountered challenging contractual situations, or simply need playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup, here are the key figures in the Premier League who must secure a new arrangement before the window closes on February 2.

To start, Lucas Paquetá (West Ham), Oscar Bobb (Manchester City), and Oleksandr Zinchenko (Arsenal) also require transfers, but they are not included in this list as they appear to be on track to achieve that.

Paquetá is anticipated to return to Brazil with Flamengo, Bobb seems poised to join Fulham, and Zinchenko is heading to Ajax.

Raheem Sterling, FW, Chelsea

There is no denying that Sterling is the standout name on this list and the player most urgently needing a change of environment. He has not participated in a match since last May, when he was on loan at Arsenal. That transfer was not made permanent, and Chelsea has not included him in their squad since, leaving him training separately from the first team.

The significant hurdle is the 31-year-old’s reported weekly salary (£325,000). Given the high cost of his transfer, the fact that he hasn’t played in nearly eight months, and his lackluster performance during his time at Arsenal, Sterling represents a considerable risk—unless he is willing to mutually terminate his contract at Stamford Bridge.

Harvey Elliott, AM, Aston Villa (on loan from Liverpool)

Elliott’s loan agreement at Aston Villa includes a clause that would make his transfer permanent for approximately £35 million after he makes 10 appearances. The issue? He is unlikely to reach that target. Unai Emery appears to have decided against utilizing him, as he has not played a single minute since October 2.

Additionally, Elliott made one substitute appearance for Liverpool prior to joining Villa, which means he cannot play for another European club this season (the limit is two). This restricts his options to a move to a team in North America or Asia if he wishes to continue playing this season.

Ideally, Liverpool and Villa could reach an agreement—perhaps removing the obligation clause from the loan would encourage Emery to give him more playing time—otherwise, Elliott’s career may remain stagnant until next season.

Mathys Tel, FW, Tottenham Hotspur

Considering Spurs’ injury situation, the thought of losing any players from their squad is concerning. However, Tel is dissatisfied.

The French international has started only six Premier League matches this season, rarely gets consistent playing time, and was not included in the Champions League squad at the start of the season. He was added to the matchday squad in December due to Dominic Solanke’s injury but was subsequently removed when the England striker regained fitness.

There would be significant interest in loaning Tel for the remainder of the season, with Paris FC among the clubs interested.

Jean-Philippe Mateta, ST, Crystal Palace

Following reported interest from Juventus and Aston Villa last week, Mateta informed Palace of his desire to leave. However, both clubs have since explored other options, leaving the French striker in a state of uncertainty.

This week, Nottingham Forest has emerged as a potential destination, with reports indicating they are willing to pay £35 million for his services, although Palace is seeking £40 million. Mateta will be hoping the two clubs can reach an agreement, as this may be his last viable opportunity to exit.

Jørgen Strand Larsen, ST, Wolves

Transfer windows often create a chain reaction. If Mateta departs Palace, they will need a replacement striker. This news should catch the attention of Strand Larsen, who is eager to leave Wolves, who are likely heading for relegation next season.

The 25-year-old Norwegian had a strong debut Premier League season in 2024-25, scoring 14 goals, but has found the net only once this season and has fallen out of the regular starting lineup. He is well-positioned for a move in this final week, but to where? In addition to Palace, Leeds United has also expressed interest.

João Gomes, CM, Wolves

Strand Larsen is not the only Wolves player attracting attention; Gomes has stood out in midfield despite his team’s difficulties this season, accumulating 65 combined tackles and interceptions—the sixth-highest total in the Premier League.

Manchester United has been linked with an interest, and if Gomes were to make that move, he would likely be stepping into the role of one of his idols, Casemiro, a fellow Brazilian who is set to leave Old Trafford at the end of the season.

There could be advantages for United in signing him early to help him acclimate, and for Wolves, ensuring Gomes avoids a relegation on his record could be beneficial.

Kalvin Phillips, CM, Manchester City

Did you overlook Phillips? You are not alone. Surprisingly, the 30-year-old midfielder remains with Man City and has played only seven minutes this season, which occurred during the 2-0 Carabao Cup win over Huddersfield Town.

There were glimpses of his potential last season while on loan at Ipswich Town, but a move to a Premier League club seems unlikely at this point. If the obstacle of his reported £150,000-per-week wages can be addressed, he should consider any opportunity that arises.

Federico Chiesa, FW, Liverpool

Similar to Tel and Spurs, it may be challenging for Liverpool to consider parting with Chiesa this month, as the injured Alexander Isak requires support after sustaining a leg injury. However, since Isak’s injury, Chiesa has played only a few minutes—during a time when Mohamed Salah was away on Africa Cup of Nations duty.

The 28-year-old has started just one Premier League match this season, despite earning praise from Liverpool supporters for his work ethic and dedication. If he aims to participate in the World Cup with Italy—assuming they qualify through the UEFA playoff tournament in March—does he need more playing time?