From Guéhi to Kenan Yildiz – Which Players Could Be on the Move in the January Transfer Market?
This January transfer market is typically a period of significant rumour and potential big-money deals. Several prominent stars find themselves linked with moves away from their present clubs. This article explores some of the major figures that might be on the move in January.
A. Semenyo
Despite the Black Stars' failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward in contention, reports suggest a major move is close. The 25-year-old possesses a contract with a sizeable release clause applicable for a brief window at the start of the month. Recent developments indicate the Premier League champions have emerged as his services. Other suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.
Marc Guéhi
This English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool falling through. With his deal due to expire in the close season, January is the club's final opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, including City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. However, a January exit is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.
B. Johnson
This Wales forward has had first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a handful of Premier League games. It is understood the London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an inquiry.
Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at around £40m.
R. Neves
This Portugal playmaker might be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, and with his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spain that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
The veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça following the manager Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January departure looks increasingly probable. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
The proven English centre-forward has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of making the England World Cup. However, securing a deal poses significant challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.
The striker helped his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
The dynamic English midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. Having few starts in Spain this term, he may be eager to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are strongly linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, though financial demands might prove a problem.
Harvey Elliott
Despite excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the talented player has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not be made permanent. Because of specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next summer appears to be the sole available solution.
K. Yildiz
The exciting Turkey forward is in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. With his current contract nearing its end, many Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are desperate to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but face a race to retain one of Europe's most promising young talents.
Kees Smit
The highly-touted Netherlands teenage 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 first team. The 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.