From Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Might Be on the Move this winter Transfer Window?
This winter transfer market proves to be a time of intense speculation and possible major moves. A number of notable stars are being connected to moves away from their present teams. This article explores a selection of the top names who could be on the move in January.
Antoine Semenyo
Despite the Black Stars' failure to reach the AFCON, which has kept the player available, it appears a major transfer is close. This 25-year-old has a contract featuring a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a two-week period in early January. Latest developments suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to other targets, leaving teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.
Marc Guéhi
This English defender has impress for Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. As his deal set to expire in the summer, January is the club's final chance to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of elite clubs, such as City and several European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a January departure remains unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.
B. Johnson
The Welsh winger has had first-team opportunities limited at Tottenham this campaign. Despite being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun just a small number of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.
Tottenham value the Welsh international at around £40m.
Rúben Neves
The Portuguese playmaker could be set for a comeback to the Premier League following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only twenty-eight, and with his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a potential bargain. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The experienced Germany goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barça following the coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January exit looks highly likely. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a potential destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
I. Toney
This proven English striker has continued finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of making the national squad. But, securing a transfer presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.
The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
This energetic English midfielder drew widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in La Liga this season, he is keen to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, although financial demands could prove a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite excelling and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this talented player has found it tough for game time on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not become permanent. Due to specific rules about playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer seems to be the only viable solution.
Kenan Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkey forward has been in fine form for Juventus this season. With his current deal running down, a host of English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.
Kees Smit
This much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After impressing at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing priced at around twenty-two million pounds.