From Marc Guéhi and Yildiz – Who Might Be on the Move during the winter Transfer Market?
The winter transfer window is always a period of intense rumour and possible major transfers. A number of prominent footballers find themselves linked with moves away from their current teams. This article explores a selection of the key figures that are poised to be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player in contention, indications are a significant move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal featuring a substantial release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest developments suggest Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Other interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative targets, leaving teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.
Marc Guéhi
The England centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a previous move to Anfield falling through. As his contract due to run out in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure remains unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the player.
B. Johnson
The Welsh forward has had first-team minutes limited at Tottenham this term. Despite being the club's leading goalscorer last season, he has started just a handful of Premier League games. Reports suggest the North London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, believed to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.
Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.
Rúben Neves
The Portuguese midfielder could be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
This veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona under new coach Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone an operation, a January departure looks increasingly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
Ivan Toney
The proven England striker has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could boost his fading chances of making the national World Cup. But, arranging a transfer presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported enormous salary render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
The dynamic English midfielder drew widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. Having limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are strongly linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, although wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.
Harvey Elliott
Although excelling and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Due to specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club before next season appears to be the sole viable outcome.
K. Yildiz
The highly-rated Turkey forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current contract nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term agreement but face a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising prospects.
K. Smit
This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ side. This 19-year-old is widely expected to complete a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal priced at approximately £22 million.