In January, there is a possibility of acquiring David De Gea, Jesse Lingard, and three additional free agents.

The January transfer window has officially opened, allowing clubs to register new players for the second half of the season. This presents an opportunity for teams to strengthen their squads in various ways.

Some clubs will be looking to avoid relegation and will hope that new signings can help them in their battle. Others will be aiming to bolster their title challenge or secure a top-four finish. Additionally, some clubs may want to support their new managers by bringing in players they believe are necessary.

However, financial fair play concerns and the significant spending that occurred over the summer may limit some clubs’ ability to make big moves in the transfer market. They may have to be cautious with their spending or search for bargains instead.

There are still players who are out of contract since the end of last season, and some teams may have their eyes on these free agents. Let’s take a look at some of the best potential options available.

Jesse Lingard is one player who could be on the move. After leaving Nottingham Forest following just one year, many expected him to join West Ham, where he had a successful loan spell. However, no agreement was reached with the Hammers, and he missed out on a switch to the Saudi Pro League. It is possible that both destinations could be revisited in the new year, and there are even suggestions that Ligue 1 teams would be interested in signing him. Lingard is currently training with Inter Miami, and there is speculation that he could potentially become a teammate of Lionel Messi.

Another player to keep an eye on is David De Gea. Towards the end of the previous season, it seemed likely that Manchester United and De Gea would reach a compromise on a reduced salary in exchange for a contract extension. However, the Spaniard ended up leaving on a free transfer, and Andre Onana was brought in as his replacement. With Onana’s form being unconvincing and the Africa Cup of Nations approaching, both parties may be willing to put their differences aside and reunite, at least in the short term. Alternatively, De Gea could provide cover for Newcastle United, who have been dealing with a shoulder injury to their goalkeeper Nick Pope.

Anwar El Ghazi is a former Aston Villa winger who recently had his contract terminated by Mainz. The 28-year-old has experience in the Premier League and has also played for Lille and Ajax earlier in his career. He could be an interesting option for clubs in need of a winger.

Douglas Costa is an experienced Brazilian player who has had stints at Juventus and Bayern Munich between 2015 and 2021. He has also played for LA Galaxy in the MLS, but left the club earlier this year. Although not at his peak anymore, the 33-year-old could still provide flair on the flanks if he can stay fit.

Shkodran Mustafi, a former Arsenal player, left the club in 2021 to play for Schalke and Levante. However, he left the Segunda division side earlier this year. Despite being 31 years old, Mustafi still has valuable experience and could be a useful addition for a club in need, provided he can stay fit.

As the January transfer window progresses, it will be interesting to see which clubs make moves to strengthen their squads and which players find new homes in the second half of the season.