How Semenyo, Neves, and Zirkzee Moves Will Impact the PL

LONDON: The 2026 winter window is not just about spending money; it is about tactical alignment. With several major clubs operating under new leadership, the mid-season market is being used to fix systemic issues.

Despite scoring the goal that ended Tottenham’s 17-year trophy drought in May 2025, Brennan Johnson finds himself at a crossroads. Under Thomas Frank, Spurs have moved toward a more structured system that has seen Johnson relegated to a peripheral role. Crystal Palace’s £35m bid suggests they see him as the missing piece for their counter-attacking setup, but Johnson’s decision will be a major indicator of his own career ambitions.

At Manchester United, Ruben Amorim is desperate for a midfielder who understands his high-intensity transition play. Ruben Neves fits the profile perfectly. Having spent two years in Saudi Arabia, Neves offers the Premier League experience and technical security United have lacked. If United can offload Joshua Zirkzee to Roma, it would free up the necessary funds and squad space to finalize this “Portuguese connection.”

Manchester City’s pursuit of Antoine Semenyo signals a desire for more direct, physical threat from the wide areas. Semenyo’s arrival would likely displace Oscar Bobb, a player of immense technical quality but perhaps less raw power. A loan to a high-pressing team like Leeds United or Borussia Dortmund would be the ideal environment for Bobb to refine his game before returning to the Etihad.

The January window is also serving as an escape route for several high-profile stars:

Down the pecking order and in desperate need of a move to salvage his international career.

Playing second fiddle to Donnarumma, the 23-year-old needs minutes in a World Cup year.

The Eredivisie standout (16 goal contributions) is being monitored by West Ham as they look to add creative spark to their midfield.

As the deadline approaches, the pressure on managers to integrate these new arrivals quickly will be immense, particularly for those looking to secure their future for the 2026-27 season.