From Guéhi to Yildiz – Who Might Be on the Move during the January Transfer Market?
This January transfer market is typically a time of feverish speculation and possible big-money transfers. A number of prominent footballers find themselves linked with transfers out of their present clubs. This article explores some of the top names who could be changing clubs in January.
Antoine Semenyo
Despite Ghana's inability to reach the AFCON, which has left the player available, reports suggest an important transfer is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a deal with a substantial release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest reports indicate Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late bid.
Marc Guéhi
This English defender has impress for Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his contract due to expire in the close season, this represents the London club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous elite clubs, including Manchester City and several European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure is considered difficult, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.
B. Johnson
This Wales forward has had first-team minutes limited at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the side's top scorer last season, he has begun just a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the North London outfit is willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an inquiry.
Spurs value the Welsh international at around £40m.
R. Neves
The Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now just 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. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
The veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barça following new coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a winter exit seems increasingly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a potential destination, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
Ivan Toney
This proven English centre-forward has kept scoring regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of being in the England squad. However, arranging a transfer presents major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.
The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.
C. Gallagher
This dynamic midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. With few starts in Spain this season, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although financial demands could 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 game time on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool before next summer appears to be the only available outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
The highly-rated Turkish forward is in excellent form for Juventus this season. With his current contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but face a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.
Kees Smit
This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. The teenager is widely tipped to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at around twenty-two million pounds.