Cardiff City’s January Transfer Outlook
Cardiff City will define their final season standings based on their activity in this months transfer window.
12th January 2024
January isn’t necessarily known as a major transfer window but it isn’t unheard of for clubs to do some of their best business in the winter window. Virgil Van Dijk being a prime example and is known as one of the best January signings of all time. Now, Cardiff aren’t quite in for players like Van Dijk but there is a clear intent to strengthen in this window and Erol Bulut has identified his targets and moves are slowly starting to take shape.
There had been some ‘suggestions’ that the Bluebirds would be doing business early in the window, before this weekend’s game against Leeds United - however the Bluebirds boss has noted that time and planning are the forefront of the plans. Ensuring the right deals can be done rather than a quick and simple deal that has been a recurring theme in past winter windows for Cardiff.
There have already been a number of small rumours about the expected January transfer deals but even those are changing by the day. Below I dive into each section and analyse what could happen over the next few weeks.
The Strikers…
Kieffer Moore, no moore?
Despite some notable online figures stating that a deal was practically done for the Welsh international it seems like this transfer is one that would be out of Cardiff’s hands. The Bluebirds have held an interest in resigning their former player for some time with Bulut expressing his liking of the forward. However, the Cherries seem to hold all the cards in this scenario - notable reports also state that Moore is attracting interest from other Championship clubs but would like to return to the Welsh capital. Cardiff will have to present the right offer to the Premier League club, whether that be a loan or permanent option to bring Moore back to the Cardiff City Stadium and it seems like a deal that could go on for some time before a definite scenario is established - one to keep an eye on.
The BBC have reported that Cardiff have made an approach to Fenerbahce for striker Mehmet Umut Nayir. Another tall and physical forward, Nayir’s profile is not too dissimilar to Moore but the players will of course have their own play styles and could both offer different things to the Bluebirds side for the rest of the campaign and possibly beyond. The 30 year old will be well known to Bulut and is seemingly struggling with life in Turkey this season - no goals or assists in Super Lig but a change of scenery could bring the forward some momentum.
With the recent departure of Ike Ugbo who has now joined Sheffield Wednesday on loan from parent club Troyes could this open the door for two new striker additions at Cardiff? Yes, it would be a sensible option to recruit two new faces in that department. Bulut is definitely a fan of a taller striker and adding two new options could provide some much needed tough competition.
It seems like one or the other when it comes to Nayir and Moore given the fact that Bulut often operates with a single striker to lead his line. The door could also open for exits in the forward department given the constant reporting of players possibly departing the club this month. Both the Nayir and Moore deals can be watched with a close eye until one or the other truly comes to life - giving an indication of whether both will sign or we will see one or the other.
Defensive Enforcements?
Ryotaro Tsunoda has emerged from reports in Japan as a possible addition for Cardiff this month. Those reporting the news in the country state that a deal is set to be completed which will see Tsunoda loaned to KV Kortrijk, Vincent Tan’s Belgian side. The 24 year old currently plays for Yokohama F. Marinos and has a steady career so far at the club. Named in the J1 League team of the season in the previous campaign, the left footed centre half is a unique name that will have a few fans questioning the possible signing.
However, the club has an extensive scouting department and have shown their ability to identify overseas talent over the years. Tsunoda seems a very solid defender producing some great numbers for his side per 90;
Tackles won - 1.20 ( 72.7%)
Duels won - 4.88 (56.5%)
Aerial duels won - 2.25 (60%)
Interceptions - 2.48
Recoveries - 6.61
Dribbled past - 0.23
Many fans have questioned why reports state that the player could be heading to Belgium on loan. When Brighton signed Karou Mitoma he was loaned to the country to gain experience in European footballing environments. However, there will also be requirements to meet for a work permit to play football in the UK and the loan move for Tsunoda could tie into those requirements.
With the only reports about this transfer coming from Japan, some patience will be needed to see if this one comes to life. The player is confirmed to be leaving his current club and is in negotiations to join a club overseas which would tie in to the current links.
Overall this could be an intriguing transfer window for Cardiff City with ins and outs expected before the deadline. How Cardiff recruit will determine their final league position come the end of the campaign with manager Bulut most definitely targeting a big finish in his first season in charge in the Welsh capital.