From Marc Guéhi to Kenan Yildiz – Which Players Might Be Making a Switch in the winter Transfer Window?
This January transfer window is always a time of feverish speculation and possible big-money transfers. Numerous notable stars are being connected to transfers out of their present teams. This article explores some of the top figures that could be on the move in January.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward in contention, indications are an important move is close. This 25-year-old has a contract featuring a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a brief period in early January. Recent reports indicate the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative options, leaving teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late bid.
Marc Guéhi
This English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Anfield falling through. With his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the club's final opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, including City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter exit is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the player.
Brennan Johnson
The Wales forward has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started only a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the London outfit is willing to consider a transfer for the correct price, thought to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an inquiry.
Spurs value the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.
Rúben Neves
The Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the Premier League after a period in Saudi Arabia. Still only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a potential bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
This experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barcelona following new coach Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone surgery, a January exit looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move currently seems off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing curiosity in the keeper.
I. Toney
The proven English centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of making the England squad. However, securing a deal poses significant challenges. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his reported huge salary render any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as interested parties.
Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.
C. Gallagher
The energetic midfielder drew considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With few starts in Spain this term, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although financial constraints might be a problem.
Harvey Elliott
Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this young midfielder has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to his parent club before next summer seems to be the sole available outcome.
K. Yildiz
This exciting Turkey attacker is in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing contract running down, a host of Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a race to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.
K. Smit
This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. The teenager is heavily tipped to complete a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal priced at around £22 million.