Regarding Guéhi and Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be on the Move during the January Transfer Window?
The winter transfer market is typically a time of intense speculation and possible major transfers. Several notable players find themselves connected to moves out of their present teams. This article explores a selection of the top names who could be changing clubs in January.
Antoine Semenyo
Despite Ghana's inability to reach the AFCON, which has left the player available, indications are a significant move is imminent. The 25-year-old has a deal featuring a £65 million release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent developments suggest Manchester City have emerged as his services. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.
Marc Guéhi
This English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Anfield collapsing. As his contract set to run out in the summer, this represents the club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as City and several continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. However, a winter exit is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's reliance on the defender.
B. Johnson
The Wales forward has had first-team minutes limited at Spurs this campaign. Despite finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, he has begun only a small number of Premier League games. It is understood the North London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an inquiry.
Tottenham value the Welsh international at around £40m.
Rúben Neves
The Portuguese midfielder could be set for a return to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spain that he would be prepared to accept a pay cut for a switch to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
The experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barcelona following new coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter departure seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing interest in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
This proven England striker has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of making the national squad. However, arranging a deal presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his reported enormous weekly wages make any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as interested parties.
The striker helped his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.
C. Gallagher
The dynamic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With few starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be keen to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on loan, is also a option, although financial constraints could prove a problem.
H. Elliott
Although excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young player has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to his parent club prior to next season appears to be the only available solution.
Kenan Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkey forward has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. With his existing contract running down, many English clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising young talents.
Kees Smit
This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ side. The 19-year-old is widely expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.