Premier League Clubs’ Transfer Needs With One Week Left in 2026 Window

The first weekend of the Premier League season has passed, yet clubs still have seven days to finalize their squads before the transfer window shuts on Tuesday, 1 September at 23:00 BST. Managers and sporting directors are assessing where their teams need reinforcements, who might leave, and which gaps remain.

Arsenal

Arsenal have strengthened midfield with Bruno Guimaraes, bolstered the wings through Christos Tzolis, and added to their defense with Ezri Konsa. Their main target remains a forward, with Julian Alvarez high on their list. Though a deal looks complex, Arsenal are ready to act if an opportunity arises.

"If you want someone proven in the Premier League who has won everything from the World Cup to the Champions League, Julian Alvarez is the man to push Arsenal over the line in Europe," says fan Watson.

Aston Villa

Aston Villa face challenges after several key departures. The potential exit of Ollie Watkins to Al-Hilal leaves a void in attack, with Nicolas Jackson targeted as a replacement. Villa also seek a winger and defender following Konsa’s move to Arsenal. Talks continue for Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez after bids for Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis were turned down.

Fan Amy Finley notes, "A striker is desperately needed, and while I rate Lindelof and Pau Torres, the defense worries me. Another center-back would be welcomed alongside strengthening the attack."

Bournemouth

Bournemouth hope to avoid losing prized assets like forward Eli Junior Kroupi and midfielder Alex Scott, who they insist are not for sale. Their main incoming signing appears to be Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio.

Brentford

Brentford have improved their squad well and are exploring left-back options, notably West Ham’s El Hadji Malick Diouf, but urgency is low due to existing cover. Experienced striker Callum Wilson adds depth, and the team seems set for a calm end to the window.

Fan Michael Johnston believes adding a left-sided forward like Mykhailo Mudryk could perfect their window.

Brighton

Brighton expect Yankuba Minteh to join Liverpool and Carlos Baleba to leave for Manchester United, creating openings for new forwards and midfielders. Chairman Tony Bloom emphasized continuing investment while sticking to their data-driven approach.

Fan Maz Mirzadeh says, "We need a defensive midfielder with physicality and a proven winger to compete on all fronts this season, especially with European football involved."

Chelsea

Chelsea fans hope for a star forward or goalkeeper replacement, but manager Xabi Alonso feels the squad is mostly set. The priority is trimming the bloated 39-player roster to about 25 before the deadline to avoid unhappy players.

Chelsea supporter Savage Dan adds, "We should focus on outgoings more than incomings, and if we bring anyone, it should be a top-class goalkeeper."

Coventry City

Coventry City pursue Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk as he seeks to rebuild his career after a suspension. Defensive reinforcements may also be needed, with some players like Luke Woolfenden possibly heading out on loan.

Fan Conna Chahal feels the club has done enough to stay up this season.

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace have seen major changes, including losing Maxence Lacroix and appointing Pierre Sage as manager. They are building squad depth for Europa League but need a senior centre-back, especially after Chadi Riad’s injury.

Fan Ollie Thomas states, "Riad’s injury highlights the need for another first-team-ready centre-back and a central midfielder."

Everton

Everton urgently require a recognized right-back, a weakness for over a year. Current makeshift solutions have not sufficed. Manager David Moyes may also seek another striker amid doubts over Beto and Thierno Barry, with Chelsea's Liam Delap linked.

Fulham

Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa is content with business so far but may add a central defender. Attempts to sign Rennes’ Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal show this area is key. Fans want a right winger and defensive cover on the right side.

Hull City

Hull City have been active but still target two forwards: Mohamed Ali-Cho and Ilyas Ansah. Interest in Real Betis winger Pablo Garcia continues despite valuation hurdles. A goalkeeper, midfielder, and right-back might be added as well.

Fan Ryan Frankish hopes for a left winger, striker, midfielders, and right-back to boost depth and challenge starters.

Ipswich Town

Ipswich Town spent over £150m on 12 signings since returning to the Premier League. Manager Gary O’Neil expects more arrivals, likely a striker and midfielder, while fringe players might depart.

Leeds United

Leeds United have signed James Trafford but will probably avoid big spending now. They remain interested in loaning Mykhailo Mudryk but face competition. Backup options for forwards and a goalkeeper linked to Frankfurt’s Michael Zetterer may arrive.

Fan Lewis Deighton points out Leeds need a left-footed left-back and possibly another forward or creative midfielder.

Liverpool

Liverpool still prioritize wingers, with names like Bradley Barcola, Ibrahim Mbaye, and Yankuba Minteh linked. Defensive midfield remains a concern after conceding twice against Newcastle, and replacing Fabinho is becoming urgent.

Fan Nahyan Chowdhury comments on the need for wingers and a defensive midfielder to fix disconnects in counterattacks.

Manchester City

Manchester City may be very active as they replace Savinho, Omar Marmoush, and Nico Gonzalez. Deals for Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi and Palmeiras winger Allan are underway. Interest in Pedro Neto and Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez continues.

Fan Steven McInerney stresses City need three to four new players, including two midfielders, to cover summer departures.

Manchester United

Manchester United are close to completing midfield with Carlos Baleba. Focus shifts to finding a left-back to support Luke Shaw, with targets including Newcastle’s Lewis Hall and Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde. Another forward might join if one leaves.

Fan Jay Motty emphasizes the critical need for a left-back to provide rotation and cover.

Newcastle United

Newcastle United saw promising performances from young signings against Liverpool but could still use a midfielder with experience and a versatile forward to support William Osula and Yoane Wissa. A move for Manchester City’s Nico Gonzalez is progressing.

Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest have brought in only three players so far. They seek a striker and full-back, with Chelsea’s Liam Delap and Fiorentina’s Dodo linked. Manager Oliver Glasner has downplayed the need for midfield additions despite Elliot Anderson’s departure.

Sunderland

Sunderland have signed full-back Dayann Methalie and midfielder Jules Ahoka but still need a right winger. Sporting’s Geny Catamo is the leading candidate despite the club’s insistence he’s happy at his current team. Forward depth is thin after Eliezer Mayenda’s exit.

Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur spent heavily this summer but may need to add forwards if Dominic Solanke is not regularly used upfront. Richarlison started the opening game, and a deal for Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush is progressing. Spurs want attackers who can convert their fast play into decisive moments.

Fan Kish Patel insists Tottenham need a winger and striker who can significantly upgrade the squad.