From Marc Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be on the Move in the winter Transfer Window?
The winter transfer window proves to be a time of feverish speculation and possible big-money transfers. Numerous prominent players find themselves connected to transfers away from their current clubs. This article explores some of the key figures who might be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Despite the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward in contention, indications are an important transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a substantial release clause active for a short window at the start of the month. Recent reports suggest the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Other interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute move.
M. Guéhi
This England defender has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. With his deal set to expire in the summer, January is the club's final opportunity to obtain a fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. However, a winter exit remains unlikely, particularly given the coach's dependence on the defender.
B. Johnson
The Welsh winger has found first-team minutes limited at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started just a small number of Premier League matches. It is understood the London outfit is willing to consider a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an interest.
Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around £40m.
R. Neves
The Portugal playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the Premier League after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still only twenty-eight, while his contract expiring in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spain that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.
M. ter Stegen
The experienced Germany goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barça following the manager Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January departure looks increasingly probable. Aston Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
I. Toney
This proven English striker has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of being in the England squad. However, arranging a deal poses major challenges. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge weekly wages render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as interested parties.
The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
Conor Gallagher
This energetic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. Having limited starting appearances in La Liga this season, he may be eager to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, though wage demands could prove a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't become permanent. Due to specific rules regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next summer seems to be the sole available outcome.
K. Yildiz
This exciting Turkish forward has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. As his current contract nearing its end, a host of English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to retain one of the continent's brightest young talents.
K. Smit
This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal priced at around £22 million.