From Marc Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be Making a Switch this winter Transfer Market?
The winter transfer window proves to be a time of feverish speculation and potential major transfers. Numerous prominent players find themselves connected to moves out of their current clubs. This article explores some of the key figures who are poised to be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Despite the Black Stars' inability to reach the AFCON, which has left the player in contention, indications are a significant move is close. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal featuring a £65 million buy-out clause active for a short period at the start of the month. Recent developments indicate Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to other options, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late move.
Marc Guéhi
This English defender has excel for Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his contract set to run out in the summer, this represents the London club's final chance to obtain a fee for their skipper. A host of top sides, such as Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a January departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the coach's dependence on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
The Welsh forward has had starting opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although being the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun only a small number of league matches. It is understood the London club is willing to consider a sale for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.
Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
Rúben Neves
This Portugal midfielder might be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now just 28, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
The experienced Germany goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barça under the coach Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone an operation, a January departure seems highly probable. Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that move currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
Ivan Toney
This prolific English centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of being in the national squad. However, securing a transfer presents major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
The dynamic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in Spain this term, he may be keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been strongly linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a option, though wage constraints could prove a problem.
Harvey Elliott
Despite starring and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the talented midfielder has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next summer appears to be the only viable outcome.
K. Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkish attacker is in fine form for Juventus this season. With his existing contract running down, a host of English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term agreement but face a race to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.
K. Smit
This much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is widely expected to complete a major move in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around £22 million.