From Marc Guéhi to Yildiz – Who Are Set to Be Making a Switch in the winter Transfer Market?
The January transfer market proves to be a period of feverish rumour and possible major transfers. A number of high-profile stars find themselves linked with transfers away from their current teams. Here is a look at some of the key names that might be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's inability to reach the AFCON, which has left the forward in contention, reports suggest a major transfer is close. This 25-year-old has a contract featuring a sizeable release clause applicable for a short period at the start of the month. Latest reports indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other targets, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.
Marc Guéhi
This England centre-back has excel for Palace despite a previous move to Anfield falling through. As his contract due to expire in the summer, January is the club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous elite sides, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. However, a winter exit is considered unlikely, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.
B. Johnson
This Wales forward has found first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started only a small number of league matches. It is understood the London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the right price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an inquiry.
Spurs rate the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.
R. Neves
This Portuguese midfielder might be set for a comeback to the Premier League after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now just twenty-eight, and with his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a possible bargain. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The veteran Germany goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona following the coach Flick. Having lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter departure seems increasingly likely. Villa were initially linked as a potential suitor, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
The prolific English striker has kept scoring regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of making the England squad. However, arranging a transfer poses major challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to a win in the domestic cup final.
C. Gallagher
This energetic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. Having limited starts in Spain this season, he is eager to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are heavily connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, although wage demands could be a stumbling block.
Harvey Elliott
Despite starring and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this talented midfielder has found it tough for game time on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season appears to be the sole available outcome.
K. Yildiz
This exciting Turkish forward is in fine form for Juventus this season. With his current contract nearing its end, a host of English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a race to keep one of the continent's brightest prospects.
K. Smit
The much-admired Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This 19-year-old is widely expected to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at around £22 million.