From Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Which Players Might Be Transferring in the January Transfer Window?
The winter recruitment period is always a period of significant rumour and potential big-money transfers. A number of high-profile stars find themselves linked with moves out of their current clubs. Here is a look at some of the major names who are poised to be on the move this month.
Antoine Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward available, reports suggest a significant move is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a deal featuring a £65 million release clause active for a short window at the start of the month. Recent developments indicate the Premier League champions have emerged as his services. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative targets, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late move.
Marc Guéhi
This England defender has impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Liverpool falling through. As his deal due to run out in the summer, January is the London club's final opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of elite sides, such as Manchester City and several European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter exit remains unlikely, particularly given the coach's dependence on the defender.
B. Johnson
The Wales winger has had first-team minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started only a small number of Premier League games. Reports suggest the North London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.
Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
R. Neves
The Portugal midfielder could be set for a return to the Premier League following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, and with his contract ending in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
The veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona following new manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January departure seems increasingly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that move currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.
I. Toney
This prolific English 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 national squad. However, arranging a transfer presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
Conor Gallagher
This dynamic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. Having limited starts in Spain this season, he is keen to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. United are heavily connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a option, though financial demands could be a problem.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented player has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next season seems to be the only viable solution.
K. Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkish attacker has been in fine form for Juventus this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a race to keep one of the continent's most promising prospects.
K. Smit
This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. The teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at approximately twenty-two million pounds.