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

The January recruitment period is typically a period of feverish rumour and possible big-money transfers. Several prominent stars are being connected to moves out of their present teams. We examine some of the key names that could be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the forward available, it appears a significant move is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a deal featuring a substantial release clause active for a short period in early January. Latest developments suggest the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Former suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late move.

Marc Guéhi

This English defender has continued to impress for Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. As his deal set to expire in the summer, this represents the London club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite clubs, such as City and several European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. However, a winter exit remains difficult, particularly given the manager's reliance on the player.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales forward has found first-team minutes hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although being the club's top scorer the previous campaign, he has started just a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the right price, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an interest.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese playmaker could be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a possible bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça following the coach Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a winter exit seems increasingly likely. Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing interest in the keeper.

I. Toney

The prolific England centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of making the national World Cup. But, securing a transfer presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having few starts in Spain this term, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United have been strongly connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, although financial demands could be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this young midfielder has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move will not become permanent. Due to specific rules about representing two clubs in a season, a move back to his parent club prior to next season seems to be the only available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkey forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this term. As his existing contract nearing its end, a host of English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. The Turin club are eager to tie down the youngster to a new long-term agreement but face a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

The much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. This teenager is widely expected to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at around twenty-two million pounds.