From Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Who Might Be on the Move in the January Transfer Market?

This January recruitment period is typically a period of significant rumour and possible big-money moves. Numerous prominent footballers are being connected to moves away from their present teams. This article explores a selection of the top figures that might be changing clubs in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the forward available, indications are an important move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a £65 million release clause active for a brief period in early January. Latest developments point to Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to other targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late move.

Marc Guéhi

This English defender has excel for Crystal Palace despite a previous move to Anfield collapsing. As his deal due to expire in the summer, January is the London club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, such as City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a January departure remains unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Wales winger has found starting minutes hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Although being the side's leading goalscorer last season, he has begun only a small number of league games. It is understood the London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the right price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

R. Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the Premier League after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the player. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spanish media that he is prepared to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran Germany goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barça under the coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter departure seems highly probable. Villa were initially linked as a potential suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The proven English centre-forward has kept scoring regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of being in the England squad. However, securing a transfer presents major hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge salary render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in Spain this term, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although wage demands might be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, this young player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing two clubs in a campaign, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the only viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for Juventus this season. As his current contract running down, many Premier League sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

The much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.

Vickie Rivas
Vickie Rivas

Environmental scientist and writer passionate about sustainable development and renewable energy solutions.