From Guéhi to Yildiz – Who Might Be Making a Switch this winter Transfer Market?
This January transfer market is always a period of feverish rumour and possible major transfers. Numerous prominent players find themselves linked with moves away from their present teams. Here is a look at some of the key figures who might be on the move in January.
Antoine Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward available, it appears a significant move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract featuring a sizeable buy-out clause active for a brief window in early January. Recent reports point to the Premier League champions have emerged as his signature. Former interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative options, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.
M. Guéhi
The England centre-back has impress for Palace despite a previous move to Liverpool collapsing. As his contract due to expire in the summer, January is the London club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter departure is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's reliance on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
The Welsh forward has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Although being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has begun just a small number of Premier League games. It is understood the London outfit is open to a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an inquiry.
Spurs value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.
Rúben Neves
The Portugal midfielder might be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only 28, and with his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he would be prepared to accept a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The veteran German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona following the manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a winter departure looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a potential suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing interest in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
This prolific England striker has kept scoring frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of making the national squad. However, arranging a transfer presents significant challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported huge weekly wages make any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.
Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.
Conor Gallagher
The dynamic midfielder drew considerable attention in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starts in Spain this term, he may be eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he shone on loan, is also a option, although wage constraints could be a problem.
H. Elliott
Although starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this young midfielder has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not become permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer seems to be the only viable solution.
Kenan Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkish forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this term. As his current contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to retain one of Europe's brightest prospects.
K. Smit
The highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. The 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a major transfer in January. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at around £22 million.