Regarding Guéhi and Yildiz – Who Could Be Making a Switch this January Transfer Market?
This January transfer market is typically a time of intense rumour and possible big-money moves. A number of prominent stars are being connected to moves out of their present teams. This article explores some of the key figures who could be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward in contention, indications are a significant transfer is imminent. The 25-year-old has a contract featuring a sizeable release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent reports suggest Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late bid.
M. Guéhi
This England defender has continued to excel for Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. With his deal due to run out in the close season, January is the club's last opportunity to obtain a fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit remains unlikely, especially given the manager's dependence on the player.
Brennan Johnson
This Wales forward has had starting minutes hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun just a small number of Premier League games. Reports suggest the London club is open to a transfer for the correct price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an inquiry.
Spurs value the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.
R. Neves
This Portuguese playmaker might be set for a return to the English top flight following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a winter exit seems increasingly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a possible destination, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.
I. Toney
This prolific English striker has kept finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of being in the national squad. But, securing a deal presents major challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as interested parties.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to a win in the domestic cup final.
C. Gallagher
The dynamic English midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. With limited starts in Spain this term, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although financial constraints could be a stumbling block.
Harvey Elliott
Although excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, the young player has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool before next summer appears to be the sole viable outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkish attacker is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. As his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.
Kees Smit
The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. The teenager is heavily tipped to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal priced at around twenty-two million pounds.