From Marc Guéhi and Yildiz – Which Players Might Be Transferring this January Transfer Window?
The winter transfer window is typically a time of significant speculation and potential big-money moves. Several high-profile footballers are being connected to transfers out of their present clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the key figures that could be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward available, it appears an important move is close. The 25-year-old has a deal with a sizeable release clause active for a short period in early January. Recent reports point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.
M. Guéhi
The English centre-back has excel for Palace this season a summer move to Liverpool falling through. As his deal set to expire in the summer, January is the club's last opportunity to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. However, a winter exit remains difficult, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
This Welsh winger has had first-team opportunities limited at Tottenham this campaign. Despite finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started only a small number of Premier League games. Reports suggest the North London outfit is open to a transfer for the correct price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an interest.
Spurs rate the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.
R. Neves
This Portugal playmaker might be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now just 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the player. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
The experienced Germany goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following new coach Flick. After lost his place and had an operation, a January departure seems increasingly likely. Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
I. Toney
The proven England striker has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of being in the England World Cup. However, arranging a transfer presents significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages make any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as interested parties.
The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
C. Gallagher
This energetic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starts in La Liga this term, he is eager to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United are heavily connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, although financial demands could be a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this young player has struggled for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer appears to be the only viable solution.
Kenan Yildiz
This exciting Turkish forward has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing deal running down, many Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but face a race to keep one of the continent's brightest young talents.
K. Smit
The highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. The teenager is heavily expected to complete a major move this month. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around £22 million.