Passivity in the transfer market threatens five Premier League clubs with relegation

As the new Premier League season approaches, analysts have identified five clubs—with no consideration for newcomers from the Championship—whose sporting form and transfer strategies raise serious concerns.

Clubs in the relegation zone risk

• Fulham: The appointment of Alvaro Arbeloa has raised eyebrows following his stint with Real Madrid. The squad is glaringly short of central defenders and wingers, with just Kevin and Oscar Bobb in the mix. Their midfield also lacks the depth needed for a top-flight battle.
• Newcastle United: After the departures of Eddie Howe, Sandro Tonali, and Anthony Gordon, Matthias Jaissle faces another heavy blow with captain Bruno Guimaraes likely to transfer to Arsenal. Losing such a pivotal leader could drag the Magpies into a relegation scrap.
• Crystal Palace: New manager Pierre Sages has inherited a critically thin bench. The sale of Maxence Lacroix to Chelsea leaves him with only three recognised central defenders, which could become a serious liability, especially with their Europa League commitments.
• Everton: David Moyes hasn't received the necessary backing from the hierarchy in the transfer market. Signings like Hayden Hackney and Christian Norgaard simply won't suffice for a proper squad overhaul, risking a position in the lower half of the table.
• Sunderland: After a surprising seventh-place finish last season, Regis Le Bris's side has only strengthened with Belgian player Thomas Meunier. The challenge of juggling Premier League fixtures with Europa League matches without significant reinforcements could lead to a decline in form.

Each of these clubs must urgently address their problematic positions before the transfer window closes to avoid the nightmare of battling for survival.