From Guéhi to Yildiz – Who Might Be Transferring this January Transfer Market?
This January transfer window proves to be a time of feverish rumour and possible major moves. Numerous prominent footballers find themselves connected to moves away from their current clubs. Here is a look at some of the major names that might be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player available, indications are an important move is close. This 25-year-old possesses a deal featuring a £65 million release clause applicable for a two-week window at the start of the month. Latest developments suggest the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Other suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to alternative options, leaving teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late move.
M. Guéhi
The England centre-back has excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Anfield falling through. As his deal set to expire in the summer, this represents the London club's last chance to obtain a fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the coach's dependence on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
This Wales forward has had starting minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Although finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun just a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the London club would be open to a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an interest.
Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.
Rúben Neves
This Portuguese midfielder could be set for a return to the Premier League after a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, while his contract ending in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to take a pay cut for a switch to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
The veteran Germany goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barça under the coach Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January exit looks increasingly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a potential destination, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing curiosity in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
The prolific English striker has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of making the national squad. But, securing a deal poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as interested parties.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.
Conor Gallagher
This energetic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the summer but remained at Atlético. With limited starts in Spain this term, he may be eager to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been strongly linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on loan, remains a option, though financial demands might be a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young player has struggled for game time on loan at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a season, a move back to Liverpool prior to next summer seems to be the only available solution.
Kenan Yildiz
The exciting Turkey attacker is in excellent form for Juventus this term. With his existing contract running down, many Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.
Kees Smit
This highly-touted Dutch midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After impressing at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. The teenager is heavily expected to complete a major move in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face strong competition from Real Madrid for a deal priced at around twenty-two million pounds.