The winter transfer market is always a time of significant rumour and potential big-money transfers. Numerous prominent stars are being connected to transfers out of their current teams. We examine some of the major names that are poised to be on the move in January.
A. Semenyo
Despite Ghana's inability to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the player in contention, reports suggest an important transfer is close. The 25-year-old has a deal featuring a £65 million buy-out clause applicable for a brief window in early January. Latest developments point to the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Former interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to other targets, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.
M. Guéhi
This England defender has impress for Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. With his contract set to run out in the summer, this represents the London club's last chance to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, including City and several European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. However, a winter departure remains unlikely, especially given the manager's dependence on the player.
Brennan Johnson
This Welsh forward has found first-team minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has begun just a small number of Premier League games. It is understood the North London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the right price, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.
Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.
R. Neves
This Portugal midfielder might be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now just 28, while his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
The veteran German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça following new coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January departure looks highly probable. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a possible suitor, but that move currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
Ivan Toney
The prolific English centre-forward has kept finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling chances of being in the England squad. However, securing a deal presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages make any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.
The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
The dynamic midfielder drew considerable attention in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. With few starts in La Liga this term, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United are strongly connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, remains a possibility, although financial constraints could prove a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented midfielder has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move will not become permanent. Due to specific rules regarding representing multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club prior to next season appears to be the only available solution.
K. Yildiz
The highly-rated Turkish attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his current deal nearing its end, a host of English clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to retain one of the continent's brightest young talents.
Kees Smit
This highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. The teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.
