It seems only yesterday that deadline day was upon us with David Luiz moving from PSG to Chelsea being the big deal of the day. Speculation has already begun as to who could be on the move in January, so we’ve had a look at five players who could be playing in a different strip come the end of the season.
Cesc Fabregas
Age: 29
Appearances this season: 6
Why could he leave?
Fabregas has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge since he was an unused substitute in the first game of the season against West Ham. He’s made a number of substitute appearances, creating a fantastic assist for Diego Costa against Watford, whilst also scoring in the League Cup against Leicester. Antonio Conte has preferred the midfield combination of Nemanja Matic and N’Golo Kante to protect his defenders, whilst the manager has used Nathaniel Chalobah and Ruben Loftus-Cheek off the bench. Fabregas has never been too good at the defensive aspect of the game and that’s the main reason as to why he could be on his way out.
Where could he go?
He’s been linked with both Milan clubs as well as Juventus. Italy beckons for Fabregas, although a reunion with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City has been muted.
Yaya Toure
Age: 33
Appearances this season: 1
Why could he leave?
A huge difference of opinion between Pep Guardiola and Toure’s agent Dimitri Seluk is the reason why the Ivorian looks to be on his way out. Toure’s made just one appearance this season, coming off the bench against Steaua Bucharest in the Champions League qualifying round when the game was already won. Guardiola has said that he won’t pick the midfielder again until Seluk apologises, so it’s doubtful whether he’ll play again. His contract is up at the end of the season, but it’s been rumoured that City will listen to offers in January.
Where could he go?
If he wants to stay in Europe, then he’ll have to take a pay cut as it’s unlikely that any club would be willing to pay his current wages. Otherwise he won’t be short of offers from China.
Jesus Navas
Age: 30
Appearances this season: 3
Why could he leave?
Navas has flattered to deceive in the Premier League ever since he arrived from Sevilla under Manuel Pellegrini. He’s scored just 4 goals in 101 appearances for City and his performances so far this season have been few and unimpressive. Guardiola is committed to encouraging youth and Raheem Sterling and Leroy Sane have both been selected ahead of Navas this season.
Where could he go?
A return to Sevilla looks likely, but the latest rumours say that the Spanish club aren’t willing to meet City’s valuation of the winger.
Matteo Darmian
Age: 26
Appearances this season: 2
Why could he leave?
Darmian was told by Jose Mourinho at the beginning of the season that he wasn’t going to feature, but it wasn’t until Timothy Fosu-Mensah signed a new contract that Darmian’s future was sealed. He was favoured under Louis Van Gaal, but the Italian defender hasn’t made a league appearance under Mourinho so far and it seems unlikely that he will. Antonio Valencia has been favoured in the right back position, but a new signing could be required.
Where could he go?
Darmian has been linked with a return to his homeland, with AC Milan, Roma and Juventus all reportedly interested in him.
Saido Berahino
Age: 23
Appearances this season: 4
Why could he leave?
Berahino has been the subject of a number of recent deadline days and with his contract up at the end of the season, WBA could cash in on him in January. He was the subject of bids from both Stoke and Crystal Palace in the summer and is currently banished to play with the under-23s as he’s been accused of being overweight. The only reason why he hasn’t left in previous windows is because he’s a very talented player.
Where could he go?
A few years ago Berahino was the subject of interest from Spurs, but it seems unlikely that Mauricio Pochettino would make a move for him. Both Stoke and Palace have signed other players instead, but there will be clubs interested in him.
