From Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Could Be Making a Switch in the January Transfer Market?
This January transfer market is always a period of feverish rumour and possible major moves. A number of notable footballers are being linked with transfers away from their current teams. This article explores a selection of the key names who are poised to be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Despite Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player in contention, indications are a major move is imminent. This 25-year-old has a contract featuring a sizeable buy-out clause active for a two-week window at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Former interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.
M. Guéhi
The English centre-back has continued to excel for Palace this season a summer move to Anfield falling through. With his contract set to run out in the close season, January is the club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of top sides, such as Manchester City and several European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a January exit is considered difficult, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.
Brennan Johnson
The Welsh winger has found starting minutes limited at Tottenham this term. Despite being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a small number of league games. It is understood the London outfit is willing to consider a transfer for the correct price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.
Spurs rate the Welsh international at around £40m.
R. Neves
This Portugal playmaker might be poised for a comeback to the Premier League after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now just twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential opportunity. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spanish media that he is prepared to accept a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a January departure looks highly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a possible suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing interest in the 33-year-old.
Ivan Toney
The proven English striker has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling chances of being in the England World Cup. However, securing a deal presents major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge salary make any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.
Conor Gallagher
This dynamic English midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in La Liga this season, he may be eager to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been strongly linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, remains a possibility, although wage constraints could prove a problem.
H. Elliott
Although starring and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young midfielder has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a season, a return to his parent club prior to next summer seems to be the only viable outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkey forward has been in fine form for Juventus this term. With his current deal nearing its end, a host of English clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.
Kees Smit
The highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ side. The teenager is heavily expected to make a major move this month. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but could face strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.