From Marc Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be Transferring this January Transfer Market?
This winter transfer market is always a period of feverish rumour and potential major deals. Numerous notable players find themselves connected to transfers away from their present clubs. Here is a look at some of the major names who might be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Despite Ghana's failure to reach the AFCON, which has left the forward in contention, reports suggest a significant move is close. The 25-year-old possesses a deal with a £65 million release clause applicable for a short window in early January. Latest reports suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have turned their attention to alternative options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late bid.
M. Guéhi
This English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. As his contract due to expire in the summer, this represents the London club's final opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, such as City and multiple European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure is considered difficult, especially given the manager's reliance on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
This Welsh winger has found first-team minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a handful of league matches. It is understood the London club would be willing to consider a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.
Spurs value Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.
Rúben Neves
This Portuguese playmaker might be set for a return to the Premier League following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only twenty-eight, and with his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spain that he would be prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The experienced Germany goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following new coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January exit seems highly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing interest in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
This prolific England striker has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading hopes of making the England squad. But, arranging a transfer presents major challenges. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge salary make any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.
Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
The energetic midfielder drew widespread interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been strongly connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on loan, remains a possibility, though wage demands could prove a problem.
Harvey Elliott
Despite excelling and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented player has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to his parent club before next season appears to be the sole available solution.
Kenan Yildiz
The highly-rated Turkey attacker is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his current contract running down, many English sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term agreement but are in a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.
Kees Smit
The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. The teenager is heavily expected to make a major move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.