The 2022 World Cup is over, but just two weeks later the transfer window opens for the majority of Europe’s top clubs on Jan. 1.
This year, more than most, the focus on the star performers from Qatar will be evident as clubs look to strengthen their energy-sapped, injury-laden squads ahead of the second half of the season. And while finances are still hurting amid the ongoing global economic crisis, football will still find a way to spend big — even if it won’t be to the levels of a record-breaking summer.
So, what are the big storylines ahead of the January window?
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Where will Cristiano Ronaldo end up?
It’s not linked to the January transfer window but the future of Cristiano Ronaldo, who is a free agent after leaving Manchester United last month, will continue to dominate headlines until he has found a new team.
Ronaldo has been training at former side Real Madrid and, on paper, a move back to the Bernabeu to cover for Karim Benzema makes a modicum of sense given the club are light in attacking areas. However, the 37-year-old’s return to United damaged his legacy and Madrid fans won’t want to see the same thing happen. Also, Madrid have been very much focused on young players, so signing Ronaldo, even in the short term, could do more harm than good to the dressing-room dynamic.
– Dawson: Ronaldo’s options after the World Cup
Sources have told ESPN that Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr have offered him a 3½-year contract worth more than $119 million (€112m) a year. But Ronaldo wants to be playing at the highest level for as long as possible. His pride may limit his options in this regard, as there has been no interest in his services from big clubs since the summer.
