From Guéhi and Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be Making a Switch this January Transfer Window?
This winter transfer market is typically a time of feverish rumour and potential big-money moves. A number of prominent stars are being connected to moves out of their present clubs. We examine a selection of the top figures who are poised to be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the player in contention, indications are an important move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract featuring a £65 million buy-out clause active for a brief window in early January. Recent reports indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Other interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.
M. Guéhi
The English defender has excel for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Anfield collapsing. As his contract set to expire in the close season, this represents the club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, including Manchester City and multiple European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a winter exit is considered difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
The Welsh winger has had starting minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has begun only a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the North London club is willing to consider a transfer for the right valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.
Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.
Rúben Neves
This Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a return to the Premier League following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a potential bargain. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he is willing to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
The experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new manager Flick. Having lost his place and undergone surgery, a winter departure seems increasingly likely. Villa were initially mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing interest in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
This proven England striker has continued finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could boost his fading hopes of being in the England squad. But, securing a transfer poses significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge weekly wages make any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup final.
Conor Gallagher
The energetic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in La Liga this season, he may be eager to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, although financial demands might prove a problem.
Harvey Elliott
Despite starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a season, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the sole available outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkish forward is in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. As his existing contract running down, a host of Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are desperate to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.
Kees Smit
The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. The 19-year-old is widely expected to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at around £22 million.