With the Premier League getting hotter by the day, the January transfer window is looming large, and some clubs are ready to pull some surprises. Though Arsenal's recent success has placed them firmly in the spotlight, it's not just the Gunners who are making headlines. Here's a ranking of the most interesting Premier League transfer rumors and targets that could shake things up this winter:
- Aston Villa Make Surprise Move for Donyell Malen
Aston Villa are in talks with Borussia Dortmund over a deal for former Arsenal wonderkid Donyell Malen, according to The Telegraph. Having left Arsenal's academy, Malen went on to join Ajax before eventually moving to Dortmund, where he has found game time limited this campaign. Villa, now managed by Unai Emery, want him in as a possible January recruit to bolster their attacking ranks. The first signing Aston Villa want to make is a new winger, and Malen comes in at £25m - a deal that could raise many eyebrows.
2. Arsenal's Move for Alexander Isak
Mikel Arteta's Arsenal are riding a wave of success, as they have managed to win four games in succession and are unbeaten in 12. In order to cut down the gap between themselves and the table-toppers Liverpool, it is reported that Arsenal might venture into the January transfer market looking for another striker. The possibility of bringing in Alexander Isak, who has been impressive with Newcastle, could add further firepower to an already formidable attack.
3. Brighton's Search for New Signing
Brighton & Hove Albion have never stepped back from the transfer market and reportedly will continue to do so in January. The team is still focusing on adding players to its squad, but this latest reported target has links to Arsenal that take the challenge to another level regarding Arteta's team. If Brighton does get their hands on the potential signing, it will spell doom in the transfer market.
4. Liverpool's Eye on an Arsenal Target
Liverpool, still in pursuit of the Premier League title, have reportedly been tracking a number of talent, one also said to be on the radar of Arsenal as well. As Arsenal tie up new talent, they will have to fend off advances from their rivals, most notably Liverpool, who are expected to strengthen in January.
5. Chelsea's Continued Investment in Youth
Chelsea's continued investment in youth remains a staple of their transfer policy. While the Blues have made their big moves already this summer, there are rumors that Chelsea might try to add a few more names as the emerging stars could be added to their growing roster. With the club's capabilities of sealing deals with young and promising talents, their January activity may come as a surprise to many.
Bonus Mention: Former Arsenal Wonderkid Sheds Light on Bukayo Saka Comparison
In an exclusive interview with BBC Sport, Donyell Malen himself revealed that during his time at Arsenal's academy, many considered him as a more promising talent than Bukayo Saka. While it is no surprise that Saka went on to make an extremely successful breakthrough, Malen was seen at the time by many as "better" than Saka. This makes for an exciting subplot to his likely return to the Premier League in an attempt to rediscover his best form.But with all these transfer rumors milling around, the coming weeks are surely going to promise some of the most thrilling moves into the Premier League. Which move would you wish to see go through? Keep an eye on these developments, as they might alter the landscape of the league!
