Concerning Marc Guéhi to Kenan Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be Making a Switch in the January Transfer Window?
This January transfer market proves to be a period of feverish speculation and potential major transfers. A number of high-profile footballers find themselves linked with moves away from their present clubs. This article explores a selection of the major names who are poised to be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Despite Ghana's inability to reach the AFCON, this has left the forward available, it appears a major transfer is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a contract with a substantial release clause active for a two-week window at the start of the month. Latest reports point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Other interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute move.
M. Guéhi
This English centre-back has continued to impress for Crystal Palace despite a previous move to Liverpool falling through. With his contract due to expire in the close season, this represents the London club's last chance to obtain a fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter exit remains unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the player.
Brennan Johnson
This Wales forward has found first-team opportunities limited at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the North London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, believed to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an interest.
Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.
R. Neves
This Portugal midfielder could be set for a return to the Premier League after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the player. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spain that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
This veteran Germany goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January exit seems highly likely. Villa were once linked as a possible destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.
I. Toney
This proven English striker has continued scoring 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 hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary make any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
Conor Gallagher
This energetic midfielder drew widespread attention in the summer but remained at Atlético. With limited starts in Spain this season, he may be eager to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he shone on a temporary deal, remains a option, though wage demands might be a stumbling block.
Harvey Elliott
Although starring and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented player has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the sole viable solution.
K. Yildiz
The highly-rated Turkish forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing deal running down, many Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but face a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.
Kees Smit
The highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.