Concerning Guéhi to Kenan Yildiz – Who Could Be Transferring in the winter Transfer Market?
This January transfer market is typically a time of intense rumour and possible major transfers. A number of prominent stars are being linked with moves away from their current clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the major names who might be on the move in January.
A. Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player in contention, reports suggest an important transfer is imminent. The 25-year-old possesses a contract with a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent developments suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Other suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late bid.
Marc Guéhi
The England defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace despite a previous move to Liverpool falling through. With his contract set to expire in the summer, January is the London club's last chance to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the manager's dependence on the defender.
B. Johnson
This Welsh winger has had first-team opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although being the club's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started only a handful of league matches. It is understood the London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the right price, believed to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an interest.
Spurs rate the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.
Rúben Neves
This Portugal playmaker might be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just twenty-eight, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spain that he would be willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
The veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barça under new coach Flick. Having lost his place and undergone surgery, a winter exit looks highly likely. Villa were once linked as a potential destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.
I. Toney
The proven English striker has kept scoring frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of making the England World Cup. However, arranging a deal poses major hurdles. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his reported huge salary make any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as admirers.
The striker helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup final.
C. Gallagher
This energetic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. Having limited starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are heavily connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on loan, remains a option, although wage demands might prove a stumbling block.
Harvey Elliott
Although excelling and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this young player has found it tough for game time on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to his parent club prior to next season seems to be the sole viable outcome.
K. Yildiz
The exciting Turkish attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing deal running down, a host of Premier League sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.
Kees Smit
This much-admired Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. The 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.