From Marc Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be Transferring this January Transfer Window?
The winter transfer market is typically a period of feverish speculation and potential major deals. Numerous notable footballers find themselves linked with transfers out of their present clubs. We examine some of the key names who could be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player in contention, it appears an important move is imminent. The 25-year-old possesses a deal with a £65 million buy-out clause active for a two-week window at the start of the month. Latest developments point to Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Other suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.
M. Guéhi
This England defender has impress for Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. With his contract set to run out in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a fee for their skipper. Numerous elite sides, including Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January departure is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.
Brennan Johnson
This Welsh winger has had first-team minutes limited at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started just a small number of league matches. It is understood the London outfit is open to a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.
Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
R. Neves
The Portugal playmaker could be poised for a return to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just twenty-eight, while his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spain that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona following the coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January exit seems highly likely. Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
This proven English striker has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his dwindling hopes of being in the national squad. However, arranging a transfer poses major hurdles. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his alleged enormous salary render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.
The striker helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.
Conor Gallagher
This dynamic midfielder attracted widespread attention in the summer but remained at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he is eager to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been strongly linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, although wage demands might prove a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young midfielder has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move won't become permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a campaign, a move back to his parent club before next season seems to be the only viable solution.
Kenan Yildiz
The highly-rated Turkish forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. With his current contract nearing its end, many Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are desperate to secure the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but face a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising prospects.
K. Smit
The highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. The teenager is widely expected to make a big-money move this month. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.