From Marc Guéhi to Kenan Yildiz – Which Players Might Be Making a Switch in the winter Transfer Window?
The winter transfer market is typically a time of intense rumour and potential big-money transfers. Several high-profile footballers are being linked with moves out of their present teams. This article explores some of the top names that could be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has kept the player in contention, indications are an important transfer is imminent. The 25-year-old possesses a deal featuring a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a short period at the start of the month. Recent developments point to the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Other suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative targets, leaving clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late bid.
Marc Guéhi
The English defender has continued to impress for Palace despite a summer transfer to Liverpool collapsing. As his deal due to run out in the close season, January is the London club's final chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the player.
Brennan Johnson
The Welsh forward has found starting minutes hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although being the club's top scorer last season, he has started only a small number of Premier League games. It is understood the London club is willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.
Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at around £40m.
R. Neves
The Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a return to the Premier League after a period in Saudi Arabia. Still only 28, and with his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
This experienced German shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barça following new manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January exit looks highly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a potential suitor, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.
I. Toney
The prolific England centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his fading chances of being in the England squad. But, securing a transfer poses significant challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as interested parties.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
C. Gallagher
This dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in La Liga this term, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are strongly linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on loan, is also a option, though wage demands might be a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite excelling and being named 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 confirmed the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a season, a move back to Liverpool before next summer appears to be the sole available solution.
K. Yildiz
This exciting Turkish attacker is in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his existing contract nearing its end, a host of English sides – 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 lengthy agreement but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising prospects.
Kees Smit
The much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. The teenager is widely tipped to make a major move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but could face strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.