January window brings new pressure
The January transfer window is no longer quiet business. Clubs across Europe are planning carefully, but pressure is growing and smart moves can change a season.
Big spending is still rare in winter, yet the right gamble can deliver instant impact or secure elite talent before prices rise even further. Here are seven players who could be worth the risk if conditions are right.
Market values and contract data via Transfermarkt.
Yan Diomande is rising fast at Leipzig
Yan Diomande has been one of the breakout attackers of the season. In his first year at RB Leipzig, the 19-year-old has already shown he belongs at the top level.
He is direct, explosive and very hard to stop in one-v-one situations. Diomande drives inside from wide areas, attacks space aggressively and regularly gets into the box. His dribbling numbers reflect a player who plays with purpose, not flair for show.
Seven goals in all competitions have already attracted attention from Europe’s biggest clubs. Leipzig paid €20 million last summer, but any deal now would likely be closer to €80 million.
Castello Lukeba fits the modern centre-back role
Castello Lukeba looks built for high-level football. He is quick, left-footed and comfortable defending large spaces behind him.
Leipzig rely on him to break lines from the back and progress play under pressure. His speed allows him to recover even when the defensive line is pushed high, while his passing makes him a key part of buildup.
Aerial duels remain his main weakness, but his overall profile is still elite. For clubs wanting a ball-playing centre back, Lukeba remains a strong option.
Ismael Saibari drives PSV forward
Ismael Saibari has become the heartbeat of PSV’s attack. The Moroccan midfielder delivers goals, assists and constant movement from midfield.
He times late runs into the box extremely well and finishes calmly with both feet. Outside the box, he also creates chances and carries the ball through midfield rather than recycling possession.
Strong, mobile and decisive, Saibari has moved beyond being a supporting player and now leads PSV’s attacking output.
Ayyoub Bouaddi looks ready for the next step
Ayyoub Bouaddi has been playing senior football since he was 16 and already looks like a complete midfielder.
He keeps the ball under pressure, scans constantly and connects play across the pitch. His ability to cover ground and win second balls adds defensive value, while his passing range supports attacks.
Discipline is still an issue, but that aggression is also part of what makes him effective. With PSG leading the race, clubs may need to move fast.
Santiago Castro offers old-school striker energy
Santiago Castro does not fit the modern highlight-reel striker mould, but his impact is real.
He presses relentlessly, battles centre backs and thrives in physical duels. Castro scores important goals and brings intensity even when chances are limited.
His technical game can improve, but his movement, work rate and direct style make him valuable in high-pressure matches.
Samu Aghehowa is built to score goals
Samu Aghehowa is one of Europe’s most dangerous young strikers. Tall, strong and mobile, he combines physical dominance with reliable finishing.
He attacks crosses, pins defenders back and turns possession into shots at a high rate. Unlike many classic No. 9s, he also moves well into channels and carries the ball forward.
Porto use him as a clear focal point, and his goal record shows why.
Victor Froholdt looks complete at 19
Victor Froholdt has adapted instantly to life at Porto. Despite his age, he already plays with maturity and tactical intelligence.
He can sit deep, push forward or operate higher up the pitch without disrupting team balance. Froholdt carries the ball confidently, breaks lines and reads games well.
His progressive runs stand out, and interest from Premier League clubs continues to grow.
