Transfer countdown

James Dall previews the winter transfer window in the Premier League and what each club needs.

James Dall previews the winter transfer window in the Premier League

Ahead of what is likely to be an intriguing winter transfer window, skysports.com's James Dall takes a club-by-club look at where each side needs strengthening and who may arrive and depart during January.

ARSENAL

WHAT IS NEEDED? Arsene Wenger would be wise to make up to four signings, but that possibility remains unlikely. The Frenchman should opt for a new goalkeeper, unless Lukasz Fabianski can make the step up, with Manuel Almunia failing to impress this term. Cover at centre-back would also be sensible, considering that the quality behind William Gallas and Thomas Vermaelen is questionable. Key defensive-midfielder Alexandre Song will be absent with Cameroon at the African Cup of Nations, so a replacement is required, while the long-term injury to Robin van Persie has left the Gunners short (literally) up front. LIKELY MOVES When considering Wenger's reputation, it is feasible that not one player will arrive. However, one exit looks very likely: Philippe Senderos. The Swiss has been frozen out and is surely set to move on. A striker appears Wenger's top priority, although he seems reluctant to buy a player who is UEFA Champions League cup-tied, for example: Marouane Chamakh. Furthermore, the likes of Mario Balotelli will doubtless prove too much money for Arsenal. In midfield, Blaise Matuidi was mentioned in the summer and could be a viable target should Wenger look to supplement Song's departure. Defensively, free agent and former Gunner Sol Campbell has been mentioned, and could act as a tidy piece of business and solid cover. World-class goalkeepers, meanwhile, are in short supply while usually cost the earth.

ASTON VILLA

WHAT IS NEEDED? Running out of steam was Villa's problem last term as Martin O'Neill suffered for having a wafer-thin squad. But looking at his current crop, the Ulsterman must be fairly content. Goalkeeper Brad Friedel is still one of the league's best while Brad Guzan looks a promising replacement. Wilfred Bouma's return from a long-term injury will feel like a new addition, while their defensive record so far this term has been impressive. In midfield, there is a solid balance between quality, squad players and youth. But up front there is sometimes an over-reliance on Gabriel Agbonlahor, with Emile Heskey not the most natural of finishers LIKELY MOVES Nicky Shorey's loan deal at Nottingham Forest could be extended or made into a permanent switch, and this could free up a small pocket of cash for O'Neill. Marlon Harewood could return from Newcastle, but is unlikely to be utilised by the Villa boss, so could again move on. John Carew has been linked with an exit, but his departure remains hugely unlikely, such is his importance to Villa. De Graafschap's highly-rated youngster Pior Parzyszek could be acquired, but there is no question the 16-year-old is one for the future. Sunderland keeper Marton Fulop has been linked with a move to the Midlands, but that move would surely make little sense. Regarding a forward, Milan Jovanovic is an alleged target and a bargain could be had, with the Serbian's contract up for renewal in the summer.

BIRMINGHAM CITY

WHAT IS NEEDED? Manager Alex McLeish could boast one of the biggest transfer kitties in the winter transfer window, with £20-40million said to be at his disposal. Defensively, the Blues have been mightily impressive to date, and therefore McLeish is unlikely to tinker too much with his back five. Joe Hart has proved himself a sound shot-stopper, although mistakes will of course arise at such a young age, and a permanent move could even be attempted to be struck. Scott Dann and Roger Johnson, meanwhile, have been pillars in defence. McLeish may look at adding some more craft to his midfield, perhaps on the wings, while a striker or two could be on the cards as he looks to give back-up to the ever-improving Christian Benitez. LIKELY MOVES Regarding outgoings, veteran duo Kevin Phillips and Lee Carsley will both be looked to be moved on as McLeish aims to tweak his squad. As mentioned, firepower could be added and it appears Jan Novak is on his way after the MFK Kosice striker underwent a trial at St Andrews. Novak's arrival could be one of up to five at Birmingham, with Monaco's Frederic Nimani and Schalke's Kevin Kuranyi also mooted as potential targets, and a bold move for Andrey Shevchenko has even been suggested. An approach for Celtic star Aiden McGeady has been mentioned, although the Irish winger is likely to command a large fee, while Rangers' Steven Davis is said to be on McLeish's shortlist. Should McLeish also opt to add some extra muscle to his midfield, Real Betis' Achille Emana could be a viable option, with the Cameroon international's first-team opportunities restricted in Spain. However, the midfielder would of course be absent for January due to the African Cup of Nations.

BLACKBURN ROVERS

WHAT IS NEEDED? Defensively, there are issues. At the time of writing, Blackburn have conceded 35 goals in 20 league games. Sam Allardyce will stick by shot-stopper Paul Robinson, but must be aware he needs more protection. A left-back could be sought after, with Pascal Chimbonda sometimes forced to play out of his natural position. Another centre-back could be purchased in a bid to add further competition to that area. There is an over-reliance on David Dunn to create and score chances from midfield, so another spark could be brought in. A striker may also be on the cards, depending on whether there are any departures in that department. LIKELY MOVES Honduras international defender Osman Chavez could move to Ewood Park after undergoing a trial at the club, but few other defensive-minded players have been linked with switches to the Lancashire side. MFK Kosice ace Juraj Hovancik could be targeted, if a reasonable deal can be concluded, while Bosnia international midfielder Senijad Ibricic has been linked with a transfer to Rovers. Allardyce could also look to extend the loan of striker Franco Di Santo. Regarding exits, forward Jason Roberts' future is in doubt after he recently admitted to his uncertainty, while Allardyce has conceded Benni McCarthy could move elsewhere after growing unsettled. It has been suggested Morten Gamst Pedersen could leave for Celtic, but Allardyce will look to retain the Norwegian's services unless a high offer is received.

BOLTON WANDERERS

WHAT IS NEEDED? So far this term Bolton's defence has been leakier than a sieve. This is therefore surely an area that needs to be addressed, and fast. A consistent performer at centre-back could be targeted, perhaps more of a ball-playing stopper. Full-back Paul Robinson has won over few supporters since joining the club, so this could be an area Gary Megson may look to bolster, but only if the funds are available. There appears to be a decent amount of variation in midfield, with grafters ample. But perhaps the overall quality could be improved with one star performer brought in. Megson often opts for just the one up front, so an addition here looks unlikely, unless someone departs. LIKELY MOVES Bolton have mainly been linked with moves for attacking players, despite their frailties at the back. Manchester City striker Benjani has been mooted as a potential target, but it remains to be seen if he would get any more opportunities at Bolton than he already has at Eastlands. MTK Budapest forward Laszlo Lencse has also been linked with a switch to the Reebok Stadium, while the same goes for FC Incheon striker Yoo Byung-soo. A loan deal for Everton striker James Vaughan has also been mooted, but Derby appear favourites to land his signature. Defender Gary Cahill is rumoured to have caught the eye of several clubs, and it has been suggested Sheffield United stopper Matthew Kilgallon could be brought in as a replacement, should the former leave.

BURNLEY

WHAT IS NEEDED? After a bright start to the season, Burnley are beginning to struggle in England's top flight. Their difficulties away from home have been well-documented, so manager Owen Coyle could look to address this issue in the transfer window. Perhaps a pacey striker could be acquired, therefore making the club more of a threat on the counter-attack when sitting back on their travels. Experienced goalkeeper Brian Jensen has had a mixed campaign to date, therefore this area could be looked at by Coyle. The Clarets' squad is not the biggest, so a versatile addition might be wise as the club look to fight off the threat of relegation. LIKELY MOVES It seems Coyle's first priority is to tie down on-loan striker David Nugent. The Portsmouth man signed on a six-month loan deal in the summer and Coyle has indicated his interest in making the move permanent. Nugent aside, there have been few strong rumours regarding incomings. Sheffield United Matthew Kilgallon has been mentioned as a potential target whilst the addition of Lincoln City goalkeeper Rob Burch could be seen as a tidy piece of business. It has also been speculated that Everton are after Chris Eagles, but Coyle is likely to be keen to retain the winger's services.

CHELSEA

WHAT IS NEEDED? At the time of writing, Chelsea's dip in form has resulted in calls for additions during January. Fortunately for Carlo Ancelotti, the transfer embargo has been put on hold for this window. Unfortunately for supporters, though, Ancelotti appears unlikely to make any moves. There is a big difference between 'need' and 'want' in regards to bolstering Chelsea's squad. There is no question Didier Drogba and Michael Essien's attendance at the African Cup of Nations will be felt. Therefore, a striker is said to be at the top of Ancelotti's list. In light of an out-of-sorts Petr Cech, there are calls for Ancelotti to identify a world-class shot-stopper. LIKELY MOVES Atletico Madrid attacker Sergio Aguero is the player on everyone's lips, although the Argentine continues to distance himself from rumours of a move. Aguero would command a high fee and while he would not pose the physical threat of Drogba, there is no questioning the youngster's talent. One can also throw into the mix any AC Milan player, with Ancelotti constantly linked with moves for his old guard. Gennaro Gattuso and Alexandre Pato are both likely to be mooted as possible captures. Also from Italy, Inter Milan's Mario Balotelli continues to be mentioned. Goalkeeper-wise, the highly-rated Manuel Neuer has been linked with the Blues, but Schalke are unlikely to sell the shot-stopper. No-one is likely to leave, although Franco Di Santo's loan at Blackburn could also be extended.

EVERTON

WHAT IS NEEDED? Injuries have unquestionably hit Everton hard this season, but David Moyes will be wary of panic-buying in the knowledge that some of his sidelined personnel are nearing returns. The Toffees have not been their usual solid selves at the back, but, with Phil Jagielka nearing a comeback, Moyes could hold fire in regards to signing a centre-back. A goal-getting midfielder could be targeted, but again Mikel Arteta is on his way back. Moyes could look to bring in a striker, with Louis Saha's fitness not guaranteed and Yakubu Aiyegbeni and Jo not bagging regularly thus far this campaign. LIKELY MOVES Moyes has confirmed that loan deals are his likely route of bolstering his side in January, and LA Galaxy star Landon Donovan is on his way. Several other players have been linked with moves to Goodison Park, including Schalke duo Ivan Rakitic and Lewis Holtby. In defence, Arsenal's Philippe Senderos was thought to be heading to Merseyside in the summer, so it has been suggested a transfer could be back in the offing this winter. Newcastle stopper Steven Taylor has also been linked with a switch, but the Magpies are likely to turn down any offers from top-flight sides. An audacious bid for Atletico Madrid attacker Diego Forlan has also been mooted, but Moyes has quelled those rumours. Regarding outgoings, Moyes will aim to keep hold of star youngster Jack Rodwell, while James Vaughan and Lukas Jutkiewicz could seal new loan deals in January. Moyes will also aim to agree a new contract with Saha.

FULHAM

WHAT IS NEEDED? After adjusting to the demands of midweek European football on top of their domestic commitments, Roy Hodgson's side are performing well in the league. Goals have not been in ample supply but their defence has been largely sound. Starting with goalkeepers, Hodgson may have his eye out for some more competition for Mark Schwarzer, although it is questionable whether that will be his top priority. An addition in central defence could be considered, should Brede Hangeland or Aaron Hughes pick up a long-term injury. Many of Fulham's rumoured targets have been attack-minded players, so that could be an indication as to where Hodgson is looking to strengthen. Another creative midfielder could be a wise addition, perhaps a player that can also operate up front when needed. LIKELY MOVES It remains to be seen how much funds are at Hodgson's disposal, despite the many names banded around as potential signings. A price of £3.5million has been mooted for Valenciennes striker Johan Audel, amid suggestions that David Elm, who joined the Cottagers in the summer, could make an early exit. Midfielder Kagisho Dikgacoi, another player who arrived in the last transfer window, is also said to be unsettled, what with his first-team appearances restricted. Charlton star Therry Racon allegedly has many suitors, including Fulham, while Crystal Palace teenager Victor Moses could act as the versatile attack-minded footballer Fulham require. The more experienced DaMarcus Beasley has also been linked with a move from Rangers to Fulham. In defence, Iceland international Solvi Ottesen could be a Hodgson-esque capture. The stopper is 6ft 3in, 25-years-old - very much in the Brede Hangeland mould.

HULL CITY

WHAT IS NEEDED? A regular goalscorer, and someone to create the chances. The Tigers had both up until Jimmy Bullard picked up a new knee injury, so it seems Phil Brown will target a similar attack-minded midfielder. Defensively there are also issues, with the club averaging two goals conceded a game. The problem is that Brown's budget will be restricted. The Hull boss indicated that the loan market will be his friend, so do not expect much, if any, outlay on permanent deals. In an ideal world, a player in each position would be purchased to help boost their survival hopes. LIKELY MOVES Despite the aforementioned, perhaps the potential sale of Daniel Cousin could free up some cash for Brown, albeit not a sackful. Peter Halmosi is another who could depart, amid rumours that Blackpool and his former club Plymouth are interested. The addition of free agent Sol Campbell would be a massive coup, but Hull could face competition from so-called bigger sides, with Arsenal allegedly sniffing around. Reports have claimed Fenerbahce attacker Colin Kazim-Richards could be targeted, although his price tag is uncertain. The unattached Glauber Berti could be a viable addition, after he underwent a trial at the KC Stadium in September. A deal for Darren Ambrose has also been suggested, but the midfielder only joined Crystal Palace in the summer.

LIVERPOOL

WHAT IS NEEDED? Only ask a Liverpool fan this question if you have an afternoon allocated to listen to their response. We'll go from back to front: Jose Reina is still among the best, so no worries here. In defence, there have - somewhat surprisingly - been issues. A better left-back than Emiliano Insua and Fabio Aurelio would be welcome. In the centre of defence, perhaps they do lack someone with pace. In midfield, when injuries hit, Liverpool are often found wanting. If Alberto Aquilani now remains fit, then the Reds need not purchase a ball-playing midfielder. Up front, there are issues. Behind Fernando Torres, the back-up quite simply is not good enough. LIKELY MOVES The financial situation at Anfield is unclear. There have been murmurs of a cash injection, but only time will tell on this front. Should Rafa Benitez cash-in on some of his players, then perhaps some deals can be had. Ryan Babel appears unsettled on Merseyside, and Bayern Munich are one of several clubs said to be monitoring his situation. Andrea Dossena is also predicted to move back to Italy. Benitez's first priority may be to tie down Javier Mascherano, who continues to be linked with a switch to Barcelona. Inevitably, reports will suggest David Villa could head to Merseyside, but, despite Valencia's cash issues, a high fee will surely be required. Promising Icelandic teenager Kristjan Gauti Emilsson is set to join the Reds, but at 16-years-old, his time is not now. Several reports have suggested West Ham duo Scott Parker and Carlton Cole could be targeted, but whether the former would add much different to Lucas and Mascherano is a point of debate. Perhaps Valencia's more creative Juan Mata would be a wiser option, in an ideal world.

MANCHESTER CITY

WHAT IS NEEDED? Not too much. In Shay Given they boast arguably the league's most consistent goalkeeper. However, despite the summer additions of Joleon Lescott and Kolo Toure, City have looked far from convincing at the back. Might new boss Roberto Mancini look back and rue former boss Mark Hughes' decision to sell Richard Dunne? There are question marks over left-back Wayne Bridge, so maybe a big-name player could be signed in this department. Another anchorman could be captured in midfield, with City's back four so often exposed. Up front, City have plenty of options but will doubtless be linked with every world-class striker going. LIKELY MOVES Hardly surprisingly, but City have already been linked with several big names. It has been suggested Barcelona enforcer Yaya Toure could link-up with his brother, Kolo, at Eastlands, in a move that would certainly add more steel to City's midfield. A bid for Gennaro Gattuso was mooted, but the Italian recently penned a new contract with AC Milan. An audacious approach for Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery has also been suggested, but it remains to be seen if Real Madrid would allow such a move to go ahead without intervening. Mancini is unlikely to allow Joe Hart to tie up a permanent deal at Birmingham, due to the keeper's potential, while the Italian coach may receive a few offers for striker Benjani Mwaruwari. The highly-rated Milos Krasic is likely to be targeted by several clubs in January, and City could be one of those sides in the running for his signature.

MANCHESTER UNITED

WHAT IS NEEDED? A goalkeeper, maybe. Edwin van der Sar is not getting any younger, Ben Foster has failed to impress when handed the chance while Tomasz Kuszczak is solid if not spectacular. Injuries have hit United's defence of late, so maybe Sir Alex Ferguson will look to bolster his backline during January. Cristiano Ronaldo's exit is unquestionably still being felt, whilst veteran duo Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs can only continue to shine for so long. Owen Hargreaves' eventual return to fitness will come as a major boost, but a midfielder with some flair is desired by some Red Devils supporters. Up front there is of course quality, but should a bargain for a powerful attacker arise, then expect Ferguson to consider getting his chequebook out. LIKELY MOVES Winger Nani is considered to be a certainty for the exit door after he did the unthinkable by going to the press about his gripes. Ferguson is not too forgiving. Should the Portuguese depart, then a new left winger may be targeted. Fans would no doubt love to see Valencia's David Silva drafted in, but the playmaker would command a high fee - it would be money well spent though. Yaya Toure continues to be linked with a move to the Premier League, but Ferguson will unlikely be tempted to make a move in the knowledge that defensive midfielder Owen Hargreaves is edging close to making a comeback. A move for Everton's Jack Rodwell has been mooted, but the Englishman would certainly cost mega bucks. Russian shot-stopper Igor Akinfeev is also an alleged candidate to arrive at Old Trafford, but Ferguson appears to believe in his current goalkeeping crop. Offers for Edin Dzeko and Sol Campbell have already been ruled out by Ferguson.

PORTSMOUTH

WHAT IS NEEDED? Portsmouth have been left desperately short from their cull over the last 12 months, so they could do with players in several positions. However, money issues and a current transfer embargo could scupper any ideas of incomings. Yet, those factors have not stopped the rumour mill, which has linked Pompey with several players. There is no question the club desperately need a striker, with goals in short supply this term. Some pace on the flanks would also be invaluable, with the club currently lacking natural wingers. LIKELY MOVES This section is hugely dependent on the transfer embargo and payments being paid. If they are, then Avram Grant can attempt to work the loan and free transfer market. Henri Camara's name has been mentioned, but whether he is the answer to their profligacy in front of goal remains to be seen. Perhaps a loan move for Chelsea's Daniel Sturridge could be a wise decision. Portsmouth are currently looking to extend Jamie O'Hara's stay, with the midfielder impressing on the South Coast. David Nugent's contract at Burnley could be made a permanent one, and this could free up some cash for Grant. As could the potential sale of Nadir Belhadj. Michael Ball and Cherno Samba could be brought in for nothing, while Benjani Mwaruwari could be targeted for a return. Also expect the usual rumours surrounding David James joining Tottenham.

STOKE

WHAT IS NEEDED? The Potters are on course to achieve roughly the same points total that they recorded last term, and this will demonstrate success for manager Tony Pulis, amid the fear of 'second season syndrome'. However, Pulis will be wary of a difficult second half of the 2009/10 term and could therefore be tempted to make the odd deal in the winter transfer window. Goals have proved an issue for the battling Potters, and this could be an area Pulis chooses to address. Perhaps a more creative head in midfield could be targeted. The full-back position could also be addressed, in a bid to give them more thrust from the wide positions. LIKELY MOVES Several players have been linked with exits, and these potential moves could well be related to incomings at the Britannia Stadium. Dave Kitson's loan deal at Middlesbrough could be made into a permanent signing while an agreement is in place to ensure Richard Cresswell joins Sheffield United on a fixed basis. James Beattie's future at Stoke remains in doubt, and it has been alleged that Blackburn could bid for his services. Leon Cort is also expected to secure a loan move out of the club in January. It has been suggested right-back Phil Bardsley could be brought in from Sunderland while Swedish international Markus Jonsson's name has also been mentioned. Huddersfield goalkeeper Alex Smithies continues to be linked with a move to the top-flight, with Stoke said to be among his admirers, whilst other possible targets include midfielder Andres Vasquez and striker Federico Nieto.

SUNDERLAND

WHAT IS NEEDED? Consistency and of course their away form have undoubtedly been Sunderland's Achilles heels this season. Steve Bruce's goalkeeping situation is a competitive one, with Marton Fulop and Craig Gordon eager to make the starting XI. In defence, Bruce may consider purchasing a more ambitious full-back, while in midfield, pace on the wings appears an issue. However, Bruce has conceded January is a difficult time to bolster and, having made several big-money signings in the summer, the funds at his disposal could be restricted. Perhaps loan deals are the answer. LIKELY MOVES Firstly, potential outgoings. Shot-stopper Fulop's future remains in doubt, amid claims Aston Villa and clubs from Germany are interested. Martyn Waghorn could be set to extend his stay away from the Stadium of Light after expressing his desire to prolong his loan deal at Leicester. Phil Bardsley is a reported target of Stoke City, whilst David Healy could be moved on after finding regular first-team football hard to come by this term. Should Bardsley leave, then it is suggested Tottenham's Alan Hutton could be eyed as a replacement. Middlesbrough star Adam Johnson could add that aforementioned need for pace on the wings, and Marouane Chamakh will unquestionably again be linked with a move to Wearside. Other rumoured targets include Wigan left-back Maynor Figueroa and Crystal Palace youngster Victor Moses.

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

WHAT IS NEEDED? According to their manager Harry Redknapp, no-one. The Spurs boss has stated that he is happy with his squad after chairman Daniel Levy indicated that there will be no repeat of last season's high spending in January. That said, one could argue the squad needs some minor tweaking. Some back-up for Heurelho Gomes might be considered following the serious injury to fellow goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini. In defence, despite all their injuries at centre-back, the club appear well-stocked. The same goes for midfield, with a sound balance boasted here. Up front will only need addressing if there is a departure in January. LIKELY MOVES Defender Alan Hutton's future is the subject of conjecture, with West Ham and Sunderland believed to be keen on the Scotland international. Roman Pavlyuchenko could also seek a move away from White Hart Lane in January after struggling for first-team football. Should the Russian leave, then Redknapp could be open to bolstering his striking department. Chilean star Humberto Suazo appears to be a target for Spurs, although it is claimed Atletico Madrid could rival them for the Monterrey forward's signature. Regarding the goalkeeping area, Asier Riesgo may be brought in after enjoying a successful trial in North London.

WEST HAM UNITED

WHAT IS NEEDED? The Hammers are struggling at both ends of the pitch. At the time of writing, they are averaging nearly two goals conceded per game, whilst just 28 strikes have been scored in a bid ease their frailties defensively. Manager Gianfranco Zola has made no secret of his hope that he could bring in a striker during the window, with much of the side's attacking onus placed on the shoulders of Carlton Cole. Someone who can play across the backline might be a wise move, while a player that has a decent record with injuries and can give you goals from midfield would be a huge asset. LIKELY MOVES At present, West Ham's financial situation is unclear. It remains to be seen how much, if any, money Zola will have at his disposal. It has even been suggested that the likes of Matthew Upson, Scott Parker and Cole could be targeted by rival Premier League sides for cut-price deals. But Zola would be loath to lose that trio and will doubtless fight tooth and nail to keep them at Upton Park. Regarding targets, Zola could look to the likes of Luca Toni, Marouane Chamakh, Adriano or Mark Viduka as possible additions for his frontline. Sol Campbell is of course available on a free, so will be in demand while it is suggested Spurs' Alan Hutton has caught Zola's eye.

WIGAN ATHLETIC

WHAT IS NEEDED? The most unpredictable side in the division need to shore up their defence. They have the worst record in the league - at the time of writing, 39 goals conceded - so manager Roberto Martinez may look to make a shrewd addition or two to his backline. Overall, Martinez's side appear to lack defensive cover. In midfield, there are a variety of options, so this area is unlikely to be addressed in January. Martinez may consider an acquisition up front, with much reliance placed on the young shoulders of Hugo Rodallega. And of course the club have not yet had chance to supplement the cancellation of Marlon King's contract. LIKELY MOVES Wigan are among the several clubs linked with a move for free agent Sol Campbell, who will be hot property this transfer window. If the Latics miss out or opt against signing Campbell then Sheffield United's Matthew Kilgallon could be a viable option. Left-back Erik Edman appears out of favour at the DW Stadium, so perhaps Martinez could look to the unattached Michael Ball as a replacement, should he move on the Swede. Their first-choice left-back Maynor Figueroa has been linked with an exit, but Martinez will aim to keep hold of the key player. Up front, Espanyol's Raul Tamudo is an alleged target, with Martinez said to be keen on his Spanish compatriot, while a move for former Wigan striker Emile Heskey has even been mooted. Wigan may also dip their toe once again the South American market, with Chilean defender Waldo Ponce said to be on their radar.

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

WHAT IS NEEDED? The club have not scored enough goals nor kept enough clean sheets in the Premier League this season. A spending splurge is unlikely, but Mick McCarthy may certainly look for the odd deal to help boost his side's survival chances. Wolves do actually possess a large squad, but perhaps a few of the players have struggled to make the step up to the top flight. McCarthy could look to some seasoned pros, with some more experience at the back or a defensive midfielder required. Injuries have cost Wolves up front, so perhaps McCarthy will rely on those returning to serve as 'new signings'. LIKELY MOVES Again, Sol Campbell has been mooted as a potential target - but, with all due respect to Wolves, the defender may have better options on the table. Instead, Preston North End's 21-year-old defender Eddie Nolan could be targeted, although he would lack experience. Aston Villa midfielder Craig Gardner has been linked with a move to Molineux, but it remains to be seen if he would swap Midlands allegiances. Powerful striker Rob Hulse is also an alleged target but Derby appear keen to retain the player's services. Gillingham forward Simeon Jackson has also been affiliated with a switch to Wolves, but a fee of at least £1.5million is to be demanded by the Gills.