Crystal Palace are among the clubs feeling the strain after a bright start to the campaign began to fade, with the added challenge of European football stretching an already thin squad.
The south London side are heading into a potentially testing year, with several core players regularly linked to moves away to major Premier League and European clubs. Oliver Glasner will be keen for January to be centred on strengthening the squad, having previously voiced frustration at the level of backing he has received in the transfer market.
Using predictions generated by X’s Grok AI, a mixed and ambitious picture emerges of what Palace’s winter window could look like.
The Eagles have already made an early move by completing a permanent deal for Tottenham winger Brennan Johnson for £35 million. The Wales international had struggled for regular minutes and is expected to bring pace, experience and added competition to Palace’s attacking options.
Grok also suggests Palace could push ahead with a deal for Sidiki Cherif, the highly rated 19-year-old forward from Angers. With Paris FC also interested, a fee of around £15 million is forecast, although Palace may need to go higher to secure his signature.
Another bold prediction is a move for Dutch midfielder Kees Smit. The 19-year-old is attracting attention from several elite clubs, but Palace could view him as a long-term successor to Adam Wharton in central midfield.
Completing the list of potential arrivals is Genk right-back Zakaria El Ouadhi. Valued between £15 million and £20 million, he could provide cover or even competition for Daniel Munoz, who has struggled with injuries.
On the outgoing front, Grok predicts Palace may be forced into a difficult decision over captain Marc Guehi. With his contract nearing its final year, a mid-season sale for between £20 million and £30 million could be considered to avoid losing him for nothing.
Midfielder Naourirou Ahamada is also tipped to move on, either permanently for a modest fee or on loan to gain regular football. Christantus Uche could follow, with his loan spell potentially cut short due to limited opportunities, leading to a return to Getafe.
The AI also highlighted the possibility of smaller exits involving Jefferson Lerma, Daichi Kamada or Nathaniel Clyne, all of whom are approaching the final stretch of their contracts and have yet to agree new deals with the club.