From Marc Guéhi and Yildiz – Which Players Might Be Making a Switch in the winter Transfer Window?
This January transfer market is typically a time of significant rumour and possible big-money transfers. Several high-profile players are being connected to moves out of their current clubs. We examine a selection of the top figures that are poised to be on the move in January.
A. Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player in contention, it appears a major transfer is close. The 25-year-old possesses a deal with a substantial release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent reports indicate Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late move.
M. Guéhi
This England defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Liverpool collapsing. As his contract set to expire in the summer, January is the London club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of top sides, such as City and multiple European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. However, a winter departure remains difficult, especially given the manager's reliance on the player.
Brennan Johnson
This Wales forward has had first-team minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has begun only a handful of league matches. It is understood the London club is open to a transfer for the correct valuation, believed to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an inquiry.
Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.
Rúben Neves
The Portuguese playmaker could be set for a comeback to the Premier League following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now just 28, while his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he is willing to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
This veteran German shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barcelona following new coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter exit seems highly probable. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move now appears off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.
I. Toney
The prolific English striker has kept finding the net regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of making the national squad. But, arranging a deal poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge salary make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.
Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.
Conor Gallagher
The energetic midfielder attracted widespread attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético. With limited starts in La Liga this season, he is keen to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United are strongly linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, though financial demands might be a problem.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young player has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to his parent club prior to next season appears to be the only available outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
The exciting Turkey forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current contract running down, many Premier League clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a race to keep one of the continent's brightest young talents.
K. Smit
The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.