From Marc Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Could Be on the Move during the winter Transfer Window?
This January transfer market is typically a time of feverish rumour and potential major transfers. Numerous notable stars find themselves connected to transfers out of their current teams. We examine some of the major figures that could be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the player available, indications are a major transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a short period at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.
M. Guéhi
The England centre-back has excel for Crystal Palace despite a previous move to Anfield collapsing. With his contract due to run out in the summer, this represents the London club's last chance to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous elite sides, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.
B. Johnson
This Welsh winger has found first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Despite being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun just a handful of league matches. Reports suggest the London outfit would be open to a sale for the right valuation, believed to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an interest.
Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.
R. Neves
The Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now just twenty-eight, and with his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a possible opportunity. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
This experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona following new coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a winter departure seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a potential destination, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing interest in the 33-year-old.
Ivan Toney
This prolific England striker has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling chances of making the national World Cup. But, securing a deal presents significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary render any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.
Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
Conor Gallagher
The energetic English midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he is eager to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been strongly linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, although financial constraints might be a problem.
Harvey Elliott
Although starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the young player has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Because of specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next season appears to be the sole viable solution.
K. Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkey forward is in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. As his current contract nearing its end, many English sides – such as 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 race to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.
K. Smit
The much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ first team. The teenager is heavily tipped to complete a major transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal priced at around twenty-two million pounds.