Key Signing Each Premier League Club Needs Before Transfer Window Closes

Last Chance for Premier League Teams to Strengthen

The transfer window is closing soon, with less than a month left for all Premier League clubs to make crucial signings. Despite the World Cup interrupting the usual schedule, teams have been busy, but many still have gaps to fill before the deadline on September 1.

Every one of the 20 clubs in England's top flight has areas needing improvement, some worsened by recent departures. Here is one position each club should focus on reinforcing before the window shuts.

Arsenal – Central Midfielder

Though Arsenal’s pursuit of Vinícius Júnior grabs headlines, their midfield demands more attention. Last season’s reliance on Declan Rice drained him physically, as seen at the World Cup. Alternatives like Martín Zubimendi faltered, and young options haven’t earned full trust yet. Offensive players such as Martin Ødegaard and Kai Havertz cover attacking roles well, but another box-to-box midfielder to share Rice’s load is vital. Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle is their prime target to boost their title defense.

Aston Villa – Left Back

Villa may lose Lucas Digne back to Paris Saint-Germain, leaving only Ian Maatsen at left back. While Maatsen shows promise, the team needs an additional option to compete in the Champions League effectively under Unai Emery.

Bournemouth – Winger

With Rayan attracting interest from Europe and Saudi Arabia, Bournemouth’s wide forward options are thin. Ben Gannon-Doak, David Brooks, and Amine Adli don’t inspire much confidence for manager Marco Rose. They’ve addressed right back by signing Juanlu Sánchez but must find new wingers to cope with Europa League challenges after losing Antoine Semenyo last winter.

Brentford – Left Back

Brentford’s left-back options are limited. Rico Henry’s injury record means he can’t be counted on fully, and Keane Lewis-Potter isn’t a natural in that role. Securing a reliable, traditional left back is essential for the Bees.

Brighton & Hove Albion – Striker

Brighton lost Danny Welbeck to Chelsea, who scored 13 Premier League goals last season. Their current young forwards are unproven at this level, and with Conference League matches ahead, they need a clinical striker urgently.

Chelsea – Goalkeeper

Despite activity in other positions, Chelsea have not strengthened their goalkeeping. Robert Sánchez improved last season but isn’t considered elite enough. The club must sign a top-class goalkeeper to push forward under Xabi Alonso.

Coventry City – Left Back

Coventry is close to finalizing Carl Rushworth as goalkeeper and now needs to find a strong left back. Frank Lampard wants an experienced defender who can handle tough wingers across the league. A striker is also on their wish list.

Crystal Palace – Center Back

Palace’s defense is stretched thin after losing Marc Guéhi and Maxence Lacroix. Chris Richards remains, joined by younger players Chadi Riad and Jaydee Canvot, but reinforcements are needed. Attempts to sign Chrislain Matsima failed, so alternatives must be sought urgently.

Everton – Defensive Midfielder

Everton lost Idrissa Gana Gueye and while Hayden Hackney arrived, the team lacks a true enforcer in midfield. David Moyes favors defensive stability, making a screening midfielder a priority over other attacking additions.

Fulham – Winger

After losing Harry Wilson and Samuel Chukwueze, Fulham’s wide options are slim. Oscar Bobb and Kevin provide little threat so far, so bringing in pacey wingers is critical for Álvaro Arbeloa’s squad.

Hull City – Winger

Hull’s owner promised many signings, including at least one winger. Leon Bailey from Aston Villa seems likely to join, but more wide attackers are needed to strengthen the team’s offense.

Ipswich Town – Central Midfielder

Ipswich has signed eight players but still requires a central midfielder. Gary O’Neil is close to securing Florentino Luís from Burnley but may seek another to cover fitness concerns and deepen the squad.

Leeds United – Striker

Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s injuries mean Leeds need a reliable backup striker. Relying on Lukas Nmecha or Joël Piroe long-term isn’t ideal, so a proven goalscorer would be a wise investment.

Liverpool – Winger

Replacing Mohamed Salah remains urgent. Víctor Muñoz from Osasuna is a left winger, but Liverpool need a right-sided attacker to fill Salah’s role. PSG’s Bradley Barcola is the main target, though costly.

Manchester City – Right Back

City spent on Elliot Anderson but lack an elite right back after several departures. Matheus Nunes and Rico Lewis have been tried there, but the club still eyes players like Tino Livramento or Malo Gusto to strengthen the position.

Manchester United – Central Midfielder

United brought in two midfielders but still lack a direct replacement for Casemiro. A strong defensive midfielder would improve balance, with Carlos Baleba and Manu Koné linked to the club.

Newcastle United – Left Back

Newcastle face turmoil after Eddie Howe’s sacking and key player departures. Losing Hall to Manchester United would worsen their situation, leaving them short at left back. They also need a versatile fullback to cover right back.

Nottingham Forest – Central Midfielder

Forest must replace Elliot Anderson, who left for Man City. Although finding a player of equal quality seems unlikely, strengthening central midfield is vital. Tottenham’s Lucas Bergvall is a favorite target despite his high price.

Sunderland – Left Back

Sunderland already signed a right back, Thomas Meunier, but need a better left back. Their current options, Reinildo and Arthur Masuaku, are aging and uninspiring. Preparing for European competition requires squad upgrades on the flanks too.

Tottenham Hotspur – Winger

Spurs have spent on midfielders and defenders but still need a winger after injuries to Dejan Kulusevski and Wilson Odobert. Mathys Tel, Mohammed Kudus, and Manor Solomon remain as options, but adding an explosive wide attacker would help significantly.