Concerning Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Could Be on the Move this January Transfer Window?
This winter transfer window is typically a period of significant speculation and possible big-money deals. Several high-profile stars are being connected to transfers away from their present clubs. Here is a look at some of the major names who could be on the move this month.
A. Semenyo
Despite the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has kept the forward in contention, reports suggest an important move is close. The 25-year-old has a contract with a sizeable release clause active for a two-week period in early January. Latest developments suggest Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Other suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.
Marc Guéhi
This English defender has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a previous move to Anfield collapsing. As his contract due to run out in the close season, this represents the London club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite clubs, including Manchester City and multiple European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a January exit is considered unlikely, especially given the manager's dependence on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
The Welsh forward has found starting minutes hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although being the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a handful of league matches. Reports suggest the North London outfit is willing to consider a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an interest.
Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.
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 only 28, and with his contract ending in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he would be willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
The experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona under the manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a winter departure looks increasingly likely. Villa were once linked as a potential destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing interest in the 33-year-old.
I. Toney
The proven English centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his dwindling chances of being in the England World Cup. However, securing a transfer poses major challenges. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his reported enormous salary render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.
The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
Conor Gallagher
This energetic English midfielder drew widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With limited starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, remains a option, although financial constraints might be a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite excelling and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this talented player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of specific rules about representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next summer appears to be the only available outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkey forward has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. With his current contract running down, many Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but face a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising prospects.
Kees Smit
The much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is widely tipped to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at around £22 million.