Concerning Guéhi and Yildiz – Who Might Be Making a Switch this January Transfer Window?
This winter transfer window proves to be a period of feverish rumour and possible major transfers. Numerous prominent stars find themselves linked with transfers away from their current teams. We examine some of the key figures who could be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Despite the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward available, reports suggest a significant transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a £65 million buy-out clause active for a brief window at the start of the month. Recent reports indicate Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late move.
Marc Guéhi
This England defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Anfield falling through. As his deal due to run out in the close season, this represents the London club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, such as City and multiple European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January exit remains unlikely, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.
B. Johnson
This Welsh forward has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a small number of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club is open to a sale for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.
Spurs rate the Welsh international at around £40m.
R. Neves
The Portugal playmaker might be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still just twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he is a potential opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
This veteran German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona following new manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter exit looks highly probable. Villa were once linked as a possible destination, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing interest in the 33-year-old.
Ivan Toney
The proven England centre-forward has continued finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of being in the national World Cup. However, securing a deal presents major challenges. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his alleged huge salary make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.
The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.
C. Gallagher
The dynamic midfielder drew widespread attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are heavily linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a option, although wage demands might prove a problem.
Harvey Elliott
Although starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this young player has struggled for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't become permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club prior to next season seems to be the sole available outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, a host of English clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising young talents.
Kees Smit
The much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ first team. The teenager is heavily tipped to make a major transfer this month. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around £22 million.