From Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Might Be on the Move in the January Transfer Market?
This winter transfer window is typically a period of significant speculation and potential major transfers. Several prominent stars find themselves connected to moves away from their current teams. We examine some of the top figures that could be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' failure to reach the AFCON, which has kept the player available, indications are an important move is close. This 25-year-old has a deal featuring a substantial release clause applicable for a brief window in early January. Recent developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.
Marc Guéhi
This English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a previous move to Liverpool falling through. As his contract set to expire in the close season, January is the London club's final chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, such as City and multiple European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. However, a winter exit is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's reliance on the defender.
B. Johnson
This Wales winger has had first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Despite being the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a small number of Premier League games. Reports suggest the London club would be open to a transfer for the correct price, believed to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.
Spurs value Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.
Rúben Neves
The Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a comeback to the Premier League after a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
This veteran German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça under new coach Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a winter exit looks increasingly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible suitor, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the keeper.
I. Toney
The proven English striker has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of being in the national squad. But, securing a transfer poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as interested parties.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.
C. Gallagher
This dynamic English midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in Spain this season, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United have been strongly linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, is also a option, although financial demands might prove a stumbling block.
Harvey Elliott
Despite excelling and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the talented midfielder has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a season, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the sole viable outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This exciting Turkish attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current contract running down, many English clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term agreement but are in a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.
Kees Smit
This much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ side. The teenager is heavily expected to make a major transfer in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at around twenty-two million pounds.