From Marc Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be on the Move this January Transfer Window?
This winter transfer window is always a time of significant speculation and possible major moves. Numerous prominent footballers find themselves connected to transfers away from their present clubs. We examine some of the top figures that are poised to be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Despite Ghana's inability to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward available, indications are a significant transfer is close. The 25-year-old has a contract with a sizeable release clause applicable for a brief window in early January. Recent developments suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.
M. Guéhi
The England defender has impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer transfer to Liverpool falling through. As his deal set to run out in the summer, this represents the club's final chance to obtain a fee for their skipper. Numerous elite clubs, such as City and multiple European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the manager's reliance on the defender.
B. Johnson
This Wales forward has had first-team opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has begun just a small number of Premier League matches. It is understood the North London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an interest.
Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
R. Neves
The Portugal playmaker might be set for a return to the English top flight after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only twenty-eight, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential opportunity. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he would be prepared to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
This experienced German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça under new coach Flick. After lost his place and had an operation, a winter exit looks increasingly probable. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.
I. Toney
The prolific English centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of being in the national squad. However, securing a transfer poses significant challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
The energetic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the summer but remained at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he is eager to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are strongly linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, though wage constraints might be a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, this young midfielder has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to Liverpool before next season seems to be the only viable solution.
Kenan Yildiz
The exciting Turkish attacker is in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising prospects.
K. Smit
The highly-touted Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.