From Marc Guéhi and Yildiz – Who Might Be on the Move in the winter Transfer Market?
The January transfer window is typically a period of intense speculation and potential big-money transfers. Numerous prominent footballers find themselves linked with moves away from their current teams. We examine some of the key names who might be on the move in January.
Antoine Semenyo
Despite Ghana's inability to reach the AFCON, this has kept the forward available, indications are a significant move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal featuring a sizeable buy-out clause active for a two-week window in early January. Latest developments suggest the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Other interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham 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 move.
M. Guéhi
This English defender has continued to impress for Palace this season a summer transfer to Liverpool collapsing. As his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, including Manchester City and multiple European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a winter exit remains difficult, particularly given the manager's reliance on the player.
Brennan Johnson
The Welsh winger has had starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Although being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has started just a small number of Premier League games. Reports suggest the North London club is willing to consider a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an inquiry.
Spurs value Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.
R. Neves
This Portugal midfielder could be poised for a return to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just twenty-eight, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he is prepared to accept a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
This veteran Germany goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça following new manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone surgery, a winter departure looks increasingly probable. Aston Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
I. Toney
This prolific English striker has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of being in the England World Cup. But, arranging a transfer presents major challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.
C. Gallagher
This energetic English midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starting appearances in La Liga this season, he may be eager to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been strongly linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, remains a option, although financial demands might prove a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Although starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented midfielder has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the sole available solution.
Kenan Yildiz
The exciting Turkish attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising prospects.
K. Smit
The much-admired Dutch midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a major move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.