With the Premier League season barely a week old, clubs across England are already racing against the clock. The summer transfer window closes on August 31, and for many top-flight sides, there is still vital business to be done. Here is a look at the key priorities for the biggest clubs before the deadline bell rings.
Liverpool: Finding Salah's Successor
The most pressing task in English football right now belongs to Liverpool. The Reds must replace Mohamed Salah — arguably the greatest Premier League winger of the modern era — after his departure to Trabzonspor. Manager Arne Slot has been handed a significant transfer budget and must use it wisely before August 31.
Targets have been linked throughout the summer — a combative wide forward with the pace and goal threat to fill the right-wing role that Salah made his own. Whatever happens, Liverpool cannot enter the bulk of the season without addressing the gap left by one of their most influential ever players.
Newcastle United: Protecting Their Star Man
Newcastle's priority this summer has been keeping Alexander Isak — a player who attracted interest from the biggest clubs in Europe after a stunning 2025/26 campaign that brought 30 goals in all competitions. The Swedish international committed his future to St James' Park on a new long-term contract, but the Magpies may still look to add depth in attacking areas before the window closes.
Eddie Howe has built a squad capable of a top-four challenge, but the relentless pace of the modern season demands options. A creative midfielder with Premier League experience is said to be on their shortlist for deadline day.
Manchester City: Settling Under Maresca
Enzo Maresca's first days in charge at the Etihad have been closely watched, and while the new City manager has spoken confidently about his plans, the squad may benefit from one or two additions to suit his preferred system. A versatile central midfielder who can press high and distribute quickly is understood to be City's main target before the deadline.
With Erling Haaland still spearheading the attack and De Bruyne gradually returning to full fitness, the foundations are strong. One smart signing in midfield could turn City from title contenders into title favourites overnight.
Chelsea: Adding Depth to Palmer's Supporting Cast
Chelsea have spent heavily in recent windows, and after winning the Club World Cup last year, the demands on their squad will increase again in 2026/27. Cole Palmer cannot do everything alone. The Blues are understood to be targeting a combative central midfielder and a cover option at left back before August 31 as they look to ensure they have the depth required to compete on all fronts.
Arsenal: Targeting Insurance
Arsenal are the calmest of the big clubs heading into deadline week. Mikel Arteta has the squad he wants for the title defence, but there is always the possibility of a late deal — particularly if an injury arises in training or a target becomes available at the right price. The Emirates technical team will be monitoring the market closely, ready to act if the opportunity presents itself.
Aston Villa: Champions League Ready
Villa's priority is ensuring their squad is deep enough to cope with Premier League, Champions League and domestic cup commitments. Unai Emery has already made targeted additions this summer, and while the bulk of the squad is settled, one or two more arrivals before August 31 could prove crucial as the season becomes increasingly congested.
The Key Dates
The summer transfer window closes on Sunday, August 31, 2026, at 11pm BST. All deals — permanent signings and loans — must be registered with the Premier League before midnight for the player to be eligible to feature in the competition. Expect the final hours to bring the usual mix of drama, last-minute medical failures, and surprise signings from clubs across the division.
Deadline day in the Premier League is never boring. Buckle up.
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