From Guéhi and Yildiz – Which Players Could Be Transferring during the January Transfer Window?
This winter transfer window is typically a period of feverish speculation and possible major deals. A number of notable players are being linked with moves out of their current teams. Here is a look at some of the top names that are poised to be on the move in January.
A. Semenyo
Despite Ghana's inability to reach the AFCON, this has kept the forward available, it appears a significant move is close. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract featuring a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Latest developments suggest the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to other targets, leaving teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a late move.
Marc Guéhi
This England centre-back has continued to excel for Palace this season a summer transfer to Liverpool collapsing. With his deal set to expire in the close season, this represents the club's last chance to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, such as City and several continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a January departure remains unlikely, especially given the manager's reliance on the defender.
B. Johnson
This Welsh forward has had first-team opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Despite finishing as the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started just a small number of league matches. It is understood the London club would be willing to consider a transfer 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.
Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.
R. Neves
The Portuguese midfielder could be set for a return to the Premier League following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only twenty-eight, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be prepared to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça following new manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone surgery, a January departure looks increasingly probable. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing interest in the 33-year-old.
Ivan Toney
The prolific English striker has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading hopes of being in the national squad. But, securing a deal poses major hurdles. 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 admirers.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup final.
Conor Gallagher
This dynamic English midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético. Having few starts in La Liga this term, he may be keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United are strongly linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he shone on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although financial demands might prove a stumbling block.
Harvey Elliott
Despite excelling and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the young player has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the only viable solution.
Kenan Yildiz
The exciting Turkish forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this term. As his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but face a race to keep one of the continent's most promising prospects.
Kees Smit
This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is widely expected to complete a major move this month. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing priced at approximately twenty-two million pounds.
