From Marc Guéhi and Yildiz – Who Might Be Making a Switch during the winter Transfer Window?

The January transfer window is always a period of significant speculation and potential big-money moves. Numerous notable stars are being connected to transfers out of their current teams. Here is a look at a selection of the top figures that could be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the player in contention, it appears a major move is close. This 25-year-old has a deal with a substantial release clause applicable for a brief period at the start of the month. Latest developments point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to excel for Palace this season a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his deal set to run out in the close season, this represents the club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of top clubs, including City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the manager's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Welsh winger has had first-team minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the club's top scorer last season, he has started just a handful of league games. It is understood the North London outfit is willing to consider a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an inquiry.

Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be set for a return to the English top flight after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a possible bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça following new manager Flick. After lost his place and undergone an operation, a January departure seems highly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a possible destination, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This proven English centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of being in the national squad. However, securing a transfer poses major challenges. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages make any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is eager to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United are heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he shone on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, although wage demands could prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Although excelling and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this young player has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing two clubs in a season, a return to his parent club before next summer seems to be the sole viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkey attacker has been in fine form for Juventus this season. As his current deal running down, many Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but face a race to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. The teenager is heavily tipped to make a big-money move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately twenty-two million pounds.

Brittany Gonzalez
Brittany Gonzalez

A tech journalist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and digital transformation.