From Marc Guéhi and Yildiz – Who Could Be on the Move this winter Transfer Market?
The January transfer window is typically a period of feverish speculation and potential major deals. A number of prominent stars find themselves linked with moves out of their current teams. Here is a look at a selection of the top names that could be on the move in January.
Antoine Semenyo
Despite the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward in contention, it appears an important transfer is imminent. The 25-year-old has a deal featuring a £65 million release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent reports indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to other targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.
Marc Guéhi
The England centre-back has continued to impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Anfield collapsing. With his contract set to run out in the close season, this represents the club's final chance to secure a fee for their captain. A host of top sides, including Manchester City and multiple European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. However, a January departure remains unlikely, particularly given the coach's reliance on the player.
Brennan Johnson
The Wales forward has found first-team minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Despite being the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a handful of league games. It is understood the London club is open to a sale for the right valuation, believed to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.
Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.
R. Neves
This Portugal playmaker might be set for a return to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now just 28, while his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he is prepared to accept a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The veteran Germany goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barça under new coach Flick. After lost his place and had surgery, a January exit looks increasingly likely. Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
The prolific England striker has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his fading hopes of making the national squad. However, securing a transfer poses significant challenges. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his reported enormous salary make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.
Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to a win in the domestic cup final.
C. Gallagher
The energetic midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in La Liga this term, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, though financial demands might prove a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Although excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young midfielder has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Because of specific rules regarding representing two clubs in a season, a return to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the sole viable outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term contract but face a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest prospects.
K. Smit
The highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This teenager is widely tipped to complete a major move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.