From Marc Guéhi to Kenan Yildiz – Which Players Might Be Transferring this winter Transfer Market?
The winter transfer window proves to be a period of significant speculation and potential big-money transfers. Several high-profile stars find themselves linked with transfers away from their current teams. Here is a look at some of the major names that might be on the move in January.
Antoine Semenyo
Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the player available, indications are a major move is close. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract featuring a £65 million release clause applicable for a short window in early January. Recent developments indicate Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to other options, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute bid.
M. Guéhi
The English centre-back has continued to impress for Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his contract due to expire in the summer, January is the London club's final chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, including Manchester City and several European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January exit remains unlikely, particularly given the manager's reliance on the defender.
B. Johnson
The Wales winger has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has begun just a small number of league games. Reports suggest the North London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the right price, believed to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an inquiry.
Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.
R. Neves
This Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still only twenty-eight, while his contract ending in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
The experienced German goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barça following the coach Flick. After lost his place and undergone surgery, a January departure looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move currently seems off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
The proven England centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of being in the England squad. But, arranging a transfer poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.
The striker helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.
Conor Gallagher
The dynamic midfielder drew widespread interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in Spain this season, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, though financial constraints could be a stumbling block.
Harvey Elliott
Although starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young midfielder has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club prior to next season appears to be the only viable solution.
Kenan Yildiz
The highly-rated Turkish attacker is in excellent form for Juventus this season. With his current deal running down, many English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term agreement but are in a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising prospects.
Kees Smit
The highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ first team. This teenager is widely tipped to complete a big-money move in January. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face strong competition from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at approximately £22 million.