10. Iker Casillas (Real Madrid)
Although a few years ago it would have been impossible to imagine Iker Casillas leaving Real Madrid, it remains a serious possibility this January after manager Carlo Ancelotti has continued in the manner of his predecessor Jose Mourinho by leaving the Spanish shot-stopper on the bench. In a World Cup year, Casillas will be desperate to play regularly, and may be tempted to take up offers from the likes of Manchester City this January, while the likes of Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund also continue to monitor his surprising situation at the Bernabeu.
9. Fernando Llorente (Juventus)
Despite only just joining the club this summer, Fernando Llorente could already be on his way out of Juventus this January due to a difficult start to life in Serie A. The former Athletic Bilbao star has not managed to guarantee himself a starting place in Antonio Conte’s side due to some fierce competition from the likes of Carlos Tevez, Mirko Vucinic and Fabio Quagliarella. This possibility of his departure has alerted Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham, who are all on on the search for new strikers when the transfer window re-opens, and Llorente certainly has the potential to be a good addition to any of these teams if he does indeed look to leave Italy so soon.
8. Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund)
A fantastic talent who continues to get better, Borussia Dortmund attacker Marco Reus looks set to be the subject of much interest this January, with Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester City said to be readying big-money moves for the impressive German international. The 24-year-old is a highly versatile player, capable of playing upfront, behind the striker or out wide, and scored 19 goals last season, with 7 in 12 appearances already this year. Arsenal will certainly be hoping Reus comes and forms a dream partnership with fellow German Mesut Ozil at the Emirates Stadium.
7. Julian Draxler (Schalke)
Another top young talent coming out of Germany that has found his way onto Arsenal’s radar is Schalke’s Julian Draxler. The supremely gifted 19-year-old is certainly one of the best young players in world football at the moment, and could be one of the most big-name and big-money signings to happen this January. Arsenal are joined by Manchester United and Chelsea in chasing this superb attacking midfielder, and there’s no doubt Draxler will be making a big move at some point in the near future, even if it doesn’t quite happen this season.
6. Leighton Baines (Everton)
After being the subject of intense speculation almost all summer, it was a big surprise when Leighton Baines eventually ended up staying at Everton instead of joining long-time admirers Manchester United. David Moyes had been keen to raid his old club for both Baines and Marouane Fellaini, though in the end only the latter made the move to Old Trafford. United are expected to try again for the left-back in January, though they may now face competition from Tottenham for his signature. A superb attacking full-back, Baines would certainly be right at home with either side.