Concerning Guéhi and Yildiz – Who Are Set to Be on the Move in the winter Transfer Window?
This January transfer window proves to be a time of significant speculation and potential major transfers. Several notable footballers are being connected to transfers out of their current teams. We examine some of the key names who could be changing clubs this month.
A. Semenyo
Despite the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward in contention, it appears a major move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract featuring a sizeable release clause applicable for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest reports indicate the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to other options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.
M. Guéhi
The England defender has impress for Palace despite a previous move to Liverpool collapsing. With his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the London club's last opportunity to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. However, a winter departure is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the player.
B. Johnson
This Welsh forward has had first-team opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun only a handful of Premier League games. Reports suggest the North London club is willing to consider a sale for the right price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.
Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.
Rúben Neves
This Portuguese midfielder could be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still just 28, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barça following the coach Flick. After lost his place and undergone surgery, a winter exit looks highly likely. Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.
I. Toney
The proven English centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of being in the England squad. However, arranging a transfer presents significant challenges. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.
The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
This energetic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United are strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on loan, remains a option, though financial demands could be a problem.
H. Elliott
Although excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young player has struggled for game time on loan at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer appears to be the only available solution.
K. Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkish attacker is in excellent form for Juventus this term. As his existing deal running down, a host of Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.
K. Smit
This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This teenager is widely expected to complete a big-money move in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.