The 2024-25 Premier League season is in full swing, and Manchester City seems to have little to worry about in most areas of their squad. However, the departure of key attacking players like Julián Álvarez and Liam Delap has left them short of cover up front. While Erling Haaland’s presence is a significant asset, relying on him to play every game is not a viable long-term solution. City’s need for a new forward is evident, and speculation is rife about potential targets like Ivan Toney from Brentford. Securing a top striker to provide support for Haaland will be crucial for City’s title ambitions.
Arsenal, on the other hand, have been relatively quiet in the transfer market, with Riccardo Calafiori being the most significant addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad. The Gunners’ firepower upfront has been a subject of debate, despite scoring 91 goals last season. While the team boasts players like Kai Havertz who can deliver crucial goals, the addition of a genuine striker could elevate Arsenal’s attacking threat. Interest in Brentford’s Ivan Toney has not materialized, leaving Arteta with a decision to rely on their current squad or push for a new centre-forward before the window closes.
Liverpool’s main focus this summer has been on retaining their existing squad rather than making new signings. Arne Slot’s appointment as head coach has not led to significant changes in the squad, with the priority being the contract situations of key players like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. The club faces the risk of losing these star players on free transfers if new deals are not agreed upon. Alexander-Arnold, in particular, has attracted interest from Real Madrid, adding urgency to securing his future at Anfield. Resolving contract negotiations should be Liverpool’s top priority before the window closes.
Aston Villa’s preparation for Champions League football includes signings like Ross Barkley, Ian Maatsen, and Amadou Onana. However, the unsuccessful attempt to sign João Félix from Atletico Madrid has highlighted Unai Emery’s desire to add top-level talent to his squad. With competition from Chelsea for Félix’s signature, Villa may need to explore alternative options to bolster their attacking strength. Learning from Newcastle’s experiences last season, Villa must ensure they have sufficient depth in their squad to handle the demands of both Premier League and Champions League competitions. Signing a forward with Champions League experience should be a priority for Villa before the transfer window deadline.
Tottenham Hotspur has focused on strengthening their attacking options this summer, with the arrivals of Dominic Solanke and Wilson Odobert. However, the club now faces questions about the depth and quality of their defensive lineup. While the first-choice defensive unit seems solid, concerns arise about the readiness of backup players like Djed Spence and Sergio Reguilón. With injuries being a common occurrence during the season, Spurs should prioritize adding more depth to their defensive options in the remaining days of the transfer window.
Chelsea’s new coach, Enzo Maresca, faces the challenge of managing a squad with an excessive number of players. The club’s focus in the coming days should be on reducing the squad size significantly by moving out surplus players. Difficult decisions lie ahead for Chelsea’s owners, who must navigate financial challenges to facilitate player exits and reduce the wage bill. Maresca’s task of handling a bloated squad will be even tougher if the club fails to streamline its roster. Addressing the squad overload should be Chelsea’s top priority before the transfer window closes.
Newcastle United’s pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi illustrates manager Eddie Howe’s intent to shore up his defensive options. While previous attempts to sign Jarell Quansah and Anthony Gordon did not materialize, Newcastle now faces a decision on whether to continue pursuing Guéhi or explore alternative targets. Focusing on bolstering the defense should be Newcastle’s priority as they aim to strengthen their squad before the transfer window deadline.
Manchester United’s recent signings have addressed various positions, but the lack of a proven goal scorer remains a concern. Despite Joshua Zirkzee’s arrival and contributions, United need a striker who can consistently deliver goals. Rasmus Hojlund’s injury concerns and Marcus Rashford’s inconsistency highlight the need for a prolific finisher in the squad. While defensive midfield reinforcement is also on the agenda, a goal scorer should be United’s primary target in the final days of the transfer window.
As the summer transfer window deadline approaches, Premier League clubs must address key areas of concern to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season. From forward shortages to defensive vulnerabilities and contract negotiations, each club faces unique challenges that will determine their competitiveness in the league. Making astute signings and resolving existing issues should be the top priorities for these clubs as they aim to achieve their goals in the 2024-25 Premier League campaign.
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