Concerning Marc Guéhi to Yildiz – Who Are Set to Be on the Move this winter Transfer Window?
This January transfer window is typically a period of intense rumour and potential major deals. A number of high-profile footballers are being connected to transfers away from their current teams. We examine a selection of the key figures that are poised to be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' failure to reach the AFCON, which has kept the forward available, indications are a major move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a £65 million buy-out clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Former interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.
Marc Guéhi
This England centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. With his contract set to run out in the close season, January is the London club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top sides, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January exit is considered difficult, particularly given the coach's reliance on the player.
Brennan Johnson
The Wales winger has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Despite being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has begun just a small number of league matches. It is understood the North London club would be open to a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an inquiry.
Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.
Rúben Neves
This Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just twenty-eight, while his contract ending in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he is prepared to accept a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
This veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça following the manager Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January exit looks highly likely. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a potential destination, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing curiosity in the keeper.
I. Toney
This prolific England centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling chances of making the England squad. However, securing a deal presents major challenges. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as interested parties.
The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
C. Gallagher
This energetic midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starts in Spain this term, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United are heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, though financial demands might be a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this young player has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool before next summer seems to be the only available outcome.
K. Yildiz
This exciting Turkey forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing deal nearing its end, a host of English clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but face a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.
Kees Smit
The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. The teenager is heavily tipped to make a big-money move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.