Concerning Guéhi to Kenan Yildiz – Who Might Be on the Move in the January Transfer Window?
The January transfer window proves to be a time of feverish speculation and potential big-money deals. Several notable players are being connected to moves out of their current clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the key names who might be on the move this month.
Antoine Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player in contention, it appears a major move is imminent. The 25-year-old has a contract featuring a £65 million buy-out clause applicable for a brief period in early January. Recent developments suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late move.
Marc Guéhi
The English centre-back has continued to impress for Palace despite a previous move to Anfield falling through. As his contract set to expire in the close season, this represents the London club's final chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top sides, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a January exit remains unlikely, especially given the manager's dependence on the player.
Brennan Johnson
The Welsh forward has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has begun just a small number of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club is willing to consider a sale for the right price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an inquiry.
Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.
Rúben Neves
The Portuguese playmaker could be set for a return to the Premier League after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a possible opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the player. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
The veteran Germany goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça under new coach Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter exit looks highly probable. Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
I. Toney
This proven English striker has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of being in the England squad. But, securing a transfer presents major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge weekly wages render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as interested parties.
The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
This dynamic midfielder drew widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in La Liga this term, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, remains a possibility, although wage demands might be a problem.
Harvey Elliott
Although excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the young midfielder has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next summer appears to be the sole viable outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This exciting Turkey attacker is in fine form for Juventus this term. As his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy agreement but face a race to keep one of the continent's brightest young talents.
K. Smit
The much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.