From Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be Making a Switch this winter Transfer Market?
This January transfer market is always a period of significant rumour and possible major moves. Numerous notable stars are being linked with moves out of their current clubs. Here is a look at some of the key figures who are poised to be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has kept the forward in contention, indications are a significant move is close. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a sizeable release clause active for a short period at the start of the month. Latest reports indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Other interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have turned their attention to alternative options, leaving teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute move.
M. Guéhi
This English centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Anfield collapsing. As his contract set to run out in the close season, this represents the London club's final chance to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of elite clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's dependence on the player.
B. Johnson
The Welsh forward has found starting minutes limited at Spurs this term. Although being the club's top scorer last season, he has begun only a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club is willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an inquiry.
Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
Rúben Neves
This Portuguese playmaker might be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, while his agreement ending in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be prepared to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona under new coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January exit seems highly likely. Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.
I. Toney
The proven English centre-forward has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could boost his fading hopes of making the national squad. But, arranging a transfer poses significant challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary render any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.
The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.
Conor Gallagher
This dynamic English midfielder drew widespread interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With few starting appearances in Spain this term, he is eager to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United have been strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, though wage demands might be a problem.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this young player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club before next season seems to be the only available solution.
Kenan Yildiz
The highly-rated Turkey forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. With his current deal running down, many English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a lengthy agreement but face a race to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.
Kees Smit
The much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. The 19-year-old is widely expected to complete a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at around £22 million.