From Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Who Could Be Transferring in the January Transfer Window?
The January transfer window proves to be a time of intense rumour and possible major moves. Several high-profile stars find themselves linked with transfers away from their present teams. This article explores a selection of the key names who might be changing clubs this month.
Antoine Semenyo
Despite Ghana's failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player available, reports suggest a major transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract featuring a substantial release clause active for a two-week period in early January. Recent reports point to Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have turned their attention to alternative options, leaving teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a late move.
M. Guéhi
The English centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. As his contract set to expire in the close season, January is the London club's last chance to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, including Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January exit is considered unlikely, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.
B. Johnson
The Wales winger has had first-team minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, he has started just a handful of Premier League games. It is understood the North London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an inquiry.
Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.
Rúben Neves
This Portugal playmaker could be poised for a return to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he is prepared to accept a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The veteran German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça following the coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January exit seems highly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a possible suitor, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
The prolific English centre-forward has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his dwindling chances of making the England World Cup. However, arranging a transfer presents significant challenges. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his alleged huge salary render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.
Conor Gallagher
This energetic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With few starting appearances in Spain this season, he is keen to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. United are heavily linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on loan, remains a option, although wage constraints could prove a problem.
Harvey Elliott
Although excelling and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this talented midfielder has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club before next season appears to be the only viable solution.
Kenan Yildiz
This exciting Turkish forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. As his existing contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy agreement but are in a race to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.
Kees Smit
The much-admired Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ side. The teenager is heavily expected to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.