Top five players who must move clubs in January transfer window ft. Real Madrid's Endrick
Many players could be looking for a move away this winter.
With the second half of the season approaching, many clubs will once again get busy during the January transfer window. All to add more reinforcement to the squad to compete in this campaign. Moreover, many players will be looking for more playing time.
Undoubtedly, certain stars have not been happy being on the bench all the time. Some might look for a permanent move away, while others will hope for a loan transfer to get more action in the second half of the season. With this, we take a look at the top five players who must move in the January transfer window.
Five players who must move in the January transfer window
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| Rank | Player |
| 5 | Brahim Diaz |
| 4 | Gavi |
| 3 | Alejandro Balde |
| 2 | Estevao |
| 1 | Endrick |
5. Brahim Díaz
After a huge inflow of offensive talent at the Santiago Bernabéu this season, Díaz has been marginalised more and more. His route to the starting eleven has become much more difficult as Arda Güler continues to grow and other attackers return next season. The presence of superstar forwards severely limits his playing time.
He is buried on the Real Madrid bench despite representing Morocco internationally and showing elite quality and leadership. Los Blancos’ only chance to profit from him before his contract expires at the end of the season is the January transfer window.
4. Gavi
Early in the 2026–27 season, Gavi made just eight appearances (with just two starts) due to fierce competition in FC Barcelona’s midfield. It understandably caused him to feel frustrated and concerned about his progress. Teams like Napoli have kept an eye on his circumstances in anticipation of any loan or transfer attempts.
3. Alejandro Balde
Alejandro Balde’s lack of playing time under manager Hansi Flick is the main reason he should think about leaving FC Barcelona in January. Balde is frequently left out of the starting lineup or only makes fleeting replacement appearances as a result of his decline in the left-back hierarchy. He has had trouble gaining consistent faith despite defensive rotation and injuries.
Manchester United and other teams keeping an eye on his circumstances can provide Balde with the guaranteed starting position and the cash package Barcelona desire.
2. Estevao
Estêvão Willian, a 19-year-old Brazilian international, needs to leave Chelsea on loan in January in order to continue his growth and earn regular first-team playing time. Early in the season, Estêvão has played very few minutes—roughly 23 to 47 minutes in the Premier League and 172 minutes overall across all competitions—falling behind backup alternatives such as goalkeeper Mike Penders.
Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Pedro Neto, and other proven or expensive talents are packing Chelsea’s offensive and creative spots under manager Xabi Alonso.
1. Endrick
Under manager José Mourinho, the 20-year-old Brazilian attacker has battled for matches, recording just 141 minutes across seven appearances in all competitions with just one start. AC Milan and AS Roma, two Italian teams, are keeping a close eye on the Real Madrid talent. They may be able to guarantee him a spot for the second half of the season.
Which players should leave to secure more playing time?
Players like Balde, Endrick and Estevao should look for a loan move to secure more playing time.
Will Balde leave Barca in January?
He could leave on loan given he is now the least-used full-back this season so far.
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