15. Neven Subotic (Borussia Dortmund)
One of the most solid defenders in Europe at the moment, Neven Subotic has been a key part of Borussia Dortmund’s great success over the last few years. The Serbian international, still only 24, looks set to be a big-name player for many years to come, and is one of several Dortmund players being linked with a move away in recent times. Bitter rivals Bayern Munich could be set to poach Jurgen Klopp’s side again as they enter the race for him against Manchester United. United may hold an edge in the deal as they ponder a possible swap deal for him, and of course Dortmund will want to avoid losing another key player to their Bundesliga competitors.
14. Shinji Kagawa (Manchester United)
If Subotic does move to Old Trafford, a player who could head in the other direction is Shinji Kagawa. The Japanese playmaker continues to be frustated by a lack of first-team opportunities under David Moyes this season and may return to the club where he first made a name for himself in European football. Dortmund would dearly love to have him back, and his days at United certainly seem numbered. Atletico Madrid could also join the chase for this skillful attacker, but a return to Dortmund would surely be his first choice. A story to look out for in January, for sure, and one United could go on to regret.
13. Christian Benteke (Aston Villa)
After a fantastic first season in the Premier League last year, Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke attracted plenty of interest over the summer before eventually signing a new contract at Villa Park. Still, the powerful and prolific Belgian hit-man is likely to be on the agenda of many top clubs again this January, with Manchester United said to be keeping him in mind if Wayne Rooney does end up leaving the club. With 23 goals last season and 5 in 6 appearances so far this campaign, it’s no wonder Benteke continues to attract interest.
12. Ross Barkley (Everton)
It has been a great start to the season for Everton youngster Ross Barkley, with some fine displays in midfield for Everton that have seen him compared by his manager Roberto Martinez to a young Michael Ballack, and subsequently earn himself a call-up to the England squad. Now the 19-year-old is a top January target for Premier League giants Manchester United and Chelsea, who could both be tempted to bid as much as £20m for this rising star of the English game. Although inexperienced, Barkley’s sheer ability and potential makes him look an attractive investment, and he is bound to be making the headlines this January.
11. Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid)
Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa has started this season in superb form, with 10 goals in his opening 10 games including a memorable winner at the Bernabeu in a 1-0 win against fierce rivals Real Madrid. Liverpool had been linked with him over the summer and his stock has only risen further now, meaning he could now attract attention from Chelsea this January as they seek to solve their striking crisis. There are few better finishers in the game at the moment, and although Atletico will be loathe to sell another star player after losing Radamel Falcao to Monaco over the summer, Costa will surely continue to attract more attention if he keeps playing like this.