From Marc Guéhi and Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be on the Move this winter Transfer Window?
The winter transfer market is always a period of feverish rumour and possible major moves. Several notable footballers find themselves connected to transfers away from their current teams. Here is a look at some of the major figures who could be changing clubs in January.
Antoine Semenyo
Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has kept the forward in contention, it appears an important transfer is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a deal featuring a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a short window in early January. Latest developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late move.
M. Guéhi
The English defender has excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. With his deal set to run out in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous elite sides, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. However, a winter departure remains unlikely, particularly given the coach's reliance on the player.
B. Johnson
This Wales forward has found starting minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started only a handful of league games. Reports suggest the North London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an inquiry.
Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.
Rúben Neves
The Portugal midfielder could be set for a return to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, while his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he is prepared to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
This experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following new coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January exit seems highly likely. Aston Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that option now appears off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.
Ivan Toney
The prolific England centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of making the national World Cup. But, securing a transfer presents major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as interested parties.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
The energetic English midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. With few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he shone on loan, remains a option, though financial demands could be a problem.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and being named 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. Due to specific rules regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season appears to be the sole viable outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This exciting Turkish forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current deal 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 desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but face a race to keep one of the continent's most promising prospects.
Kees Smit
The much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. The 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a big-money move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around £22 million.