From Marc Guéhi to Kenan Yildiz – Who Are Set to Be Making a Switch this winter Transfer Window?
This January recruitment period is always a time of significant speculation and possible major moves. A number of prominent stars are being linked with moves out of their present clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the major figures that are poised to be on the move this month.
A. Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward in contention, reports suggest a significant move is imminent. The 25-year-old has a contract featuring a sizeable release clause applicable for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent reports indicate the Premier League champions have emerged as his signature. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other options, potentially opening the door for teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.
Marc Guéhi
This English centre-back has impress for Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. As his contract set to expire in the close season, January is the London club's last opportunity to obtain a fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter exit is considered unlikely, especially given the manager's dependence on the player.
B. Johnson
The Welsh forward has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has begun just a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the London club would be open to a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an interest.
Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.
R. Neves
This Portuguese midfielder could be set for a comeback to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now just twenty-eight, while his contract ending in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the player. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
The experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following the coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a winter departure seems increasingly probable. Villa were once linked as a possible destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing interest in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
This proven England striker has kept scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of being in the national squad. However, securing a deal presents significant challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary render any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as interested parties.
Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
C. Gallagher
This dynamic midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With few starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be eager to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, remains a option, though wage constraints might be a stumbling block.
Harvey Elliott
Despite excelling and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented player has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the loan move won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool before next season seems to be the only available solution.
Kenan Yildiz
The exciting Turkey forward has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. As his current contract nearing its end, many Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.
Kees Smit
The much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. The teenager is widely tipped to make a major move in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.