From Marc Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Could Be Making a Switch during the winter Transfer Window?
The January transfer window is typically a period of intense speculation and possible big-money deals. Several notable players find themselves connected to transfers out of their present clubs. This article explores a selection of the major names that might be on the move this month.
Antoine Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the forward in contention, indications are an important transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a substantial release clause applicable for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent developments indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative options, leaving teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.
M. Guéhi
This England centre-back has continued to impress for Palace this season a previous move to Liverpool falling through. With his deal due to run out in the close season, this represents the club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, such as City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a January exit is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's reliance on the player.
Brennan Johnson
The Wales winger has had first-team opportunities limited at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has begun just a small number of league games. Reports suggest the London club is willing to consider a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an interest.
Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
R. Neves
This Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only twenty-eight, and with his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible opportunity. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he would be willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
This experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça under new coach Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January departure looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were initially linked as a potential suitor, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
This prolific England centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of being in the England squad. However, securing a transfer poses major hurdles. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary make any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.
The striker helped Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
Conor Gallagher
The energetic midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. Having limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United have been strongly connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, although financial constraints might prove a problem.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next season seems to be the only viable solution.
K. Yildiz
This exciting Turkey forward is in fine form for Juventus this term. With his existing deal running down, many English clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising prospects.
K. Smit
This much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ first team. This 19-year-old is widely expected to make a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around twenty-two million pounds.