From Marc Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Who Are Set to Be on the Move in the January Transfer Window?

This winter recruitment period is typically a period of feverish speculation and possible major transfers. Numerous notable footballers are being connected to transfers out of their current teams. This article explores a selection of the top names who could be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the player available, indications are a major transfer is close. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract featuring a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent developments suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Other interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, leaving teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

The England defender has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. With his deal due to run out in the summer, January is the London club's final chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, such as City and several continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a January departure is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has had first-team minutes limited at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has begun only a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an inquiry.

Spurs value the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

R. Neves

The Portugal midfielder could be set for a comeback to the Premier League after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now just 28, and with his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the player. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to accept a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran German goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barcelona under the manager Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a winter departure seems increasingly probable. Villa were once linked as a potential suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The prolific England striker has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his dwindling chances of being in the England World Cup. But, securing a transfer poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.

The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be eager to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, though financial constraints could prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, the young player has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the only viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkish attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. With his existing contract running down, many Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to retain one of Europe's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

This highly-touted Dutch midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a major move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at around £22 million.

Nicole Ramirez
Nicole Ramirez

Elara Vance is an astrophysicist and science writer with a passion for making space exploration accessible to everyone.