From Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Who Are Set to Be on the Move this winter Transfer Window?
This winter transfer window is typically a time of significant rumour and potential big-money transfers. A number of high-profile footballers are being linked with moves out of their current clubs. We examine some of the major figures that are poised to be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward available, indications are a major transfer is close. The 25-year-old has a deal with a £65 million release clause applicable for a brief window in early January. Recent reports indicate the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.
M. Guéhi
This English centre-back has impress for Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. As his deal set to expire in the summer, January is the London club's final chance to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous elite sides, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a January departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
The Wales forward has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although being the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the North London club would be willing to consider a transfer for the right valuation, believed to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an inquiry.
Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.
Rúben Neves
This Portuguese playmaker could be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a potential opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
M. ter Stegen
The experienced German shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barcelona under new coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter departure seems highly likely. Villa were initially mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing interest in the keeper.
I. Toney
The prolific English centre-forward has continued finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of making the England World Cup. However, arranging a transfer poses significant hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.
The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.
Conor Gallagher
This dynamic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With limited starting appearances in La Liga this season, he is eager to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on loan, remains a possibility, though wage constraints could prove a problem.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the talented midfielder has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer appears to be the sole available outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This exciting Turkish attacker has been in fine form for Juventus this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, a host of Premier League sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term agreement but are in a race to keep one of Europe's brightest prospects.
Kees Smit
This much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ side. The teenager is heavily tipped to complete a major transfer this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.