From Guéhi to Yildiz – Who Could Be on the Move during the January Transfer Window?

This January transfer window proves to be a period of feverish rumour and potential big-money deals. Numerous prominent stars are being connected to transfers out of their present teams. This article explores some of the top figures that might be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward in contention, reports suggest a major move is close. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract featuring a sizeable buy-out clause active for a brief period in early January. Recent developments indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

This English defender has excel for Palace this season a summer move to Anfield collapsing. As his deal set to run out in the close season, this represents the London club's final chance to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of elite clubs, including Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a winter exit remains unlikely, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has found starting minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has begun only a small number of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the correct price, thought to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an interest.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

R. Neves

This Portugal midfielder might be poised for a return to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now just 28, while his contract ending in the summer, he represents a potential opportunity. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he would be prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça under new coach Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter departure looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a possible destination, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing interest in the keeper.

I. Toney

This prolific England striker has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of making the England World Cup. However, arranging a transfer presents major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge salary render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in Spain this season, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although financial constraints could be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the young player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Because of specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a move back to his parent club before next season appears to be the only available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The exciting Turkey forward is in excellent form for Juventus this term. With his existing deal running down, a host of Premier League sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a race to retain one of the continent's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to make a major transfer this month. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.

Christine Brown
Christine Brown

A senior web developer and digital strategist with over a decade of experience in creating user-centric online solutions.