The winter transfer window is a strategic period for European clubs looking to strengthen their squads before the second half of the season. Certain signings can alter the competitive landscape and provide teams with a new momentum in their pursuit of trophies.
As January 2025 unfolds, several major moves are in progress, potentially impacting both the Champions League and domestic leagues. Here are the most anticipated transfers and their possible impact.
1. Benjamin Šeško to Arsenal – A Key Offensive Signing?
- Current Club: RB Leipzig
- Estimated Transfer Fee: €70 million
- Impact: Strengthening Arsenal’s attacking force
Slovenian striker Benjamin Šeško, currently at RB Leipzig, is one of Arsenal’s top priorities. The Gunners are searching for a clinical finisher to compete with Gabriel Jesus. His arrival could provide a crucial offensive edge in Arsenal’s Premier League title race.
Likelihood of completion: (High)
2. Victor Osimhen to Chelsea – A Game-Changer for the Blues?
- Current Club: Napoli
- Estimated Transfer Fee: €100 million
- Impact: Solving Chelsea’s attacking struggles
The 2022-2023 Serie A top scorer, Victor Osimhen, is on Chelsea’s radar as the club struggles to find a reliable striker. If this transfer materializes, it could be a major turning point for the Blues, who are currently underperforming in the Premier League.
Likelihood of completion: (Medium)
3. Xavi Simons to FC Barcelona – A Long-Awaited Return?
- Current Club: RB Leipzig (on loan from PSG)
- Possible Transfer Type: Early termination of loan
- Impact: Strengthening Barcelona’s midfield
Dutch prodigy Xavi Simons could make a surprise return to FC Barcelona this winter. With Pedri and Gavi frequently injured, the Catalan club is in need of a creative reinforcement in midfield.
Likelihood of completion: (Medium)
4. Marcus Rashford to Paris Saint-Germain – A New Star in Ligue 1?
- Current Club: Manchester United
- Estimated Transfer Fee: €90 million
- Impact: A potential replacement for Kylian Mbappé?
With Kylian Mbappé’s possible departure to Real Madrid at the end of the season, PSG is considering Marcus Rashford as his successor. Capable of playing as a striker or left winger, the Englishman could seamlessly integrate into Luis Enrique’s tactical setup.
Likelihood of completion: (Low)
5. João Félix to AC Milan – A New Challenge in Serie A?
- Current Club: Atlético Madrid (on loan at Barcelona)
- Estimated Transfer Fee: €50 million
- Impact: Creativity and technical ability for Milan
After a mixed spell at FC Barcelona, João Félix could be looking for a fresh start with AC Milan. His technical and creative style would be a valuable asset for the Rossoneri in their Serie A title quest.
Likelihood of completion: (Medium)
6. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to Manchester City – Guardiola’s Next Big Move?
- Current Club: Napoli
- Estimated Transfer Fee: €120 million
- Impact: A high-profile addition for City
Napoli’s Georgian magician, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, is closely monitored by Manchester City. With Jack Grealish struggling for consistency, Pep Guardiola might see Kvaratskhelia as the perfect solution to energize City’s attack.
Likelihood of completion: (Low)
Which Clubs Could Benefit the Most?
- Arsenal – Šeško could help them challenge Manchester City in the Premier League.
- Chelsea – Osimhen could finally solve their striker dilemma.
- Barcelona – The return of Xavi Simons would boost their creativity.
- Milan – João Félix could revitalize his career in Serie A.
- PSG – Rashford would be a strong replacement if Mbappé leaves.
These potential transfers could reshape European football and determine the outcome of major competitions in the second half of the season.