Concerning Marc Guéhi and Yildiz – Who Could Be on the Move during the January Transfer Market?
This winter transfer market is always a period of significant speculation and potential big-money moves. A number of prominent footballers are being linked with moves away from their current clubs. This article explores a selection of the key names who are poised to be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Despite the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward in contention, indications are an important move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract featuring a sizeable release clause applicable for a short period at the start of the month. Recent developments suggest Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.
Marc Guéhi
The England defender has continued to impress for Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool collapsing. As his deal due to expire in the summer, January is the London club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous elite clubs, such as City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a January exit remains difficult, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
This Wales forward has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a small number of league games. It is understood the North London outfit is willing to consider a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.
Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
R. Neves
This Portugal midfielder could be poised for a return to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only twenty-eight, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
Marc-André ter Stegen
The experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça under the coach Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January departure seems increasingly likely. Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.
Ivan Toney
This prolific England centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of being in the England World Cup. But, arranging a deal presents major hurdles. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary render any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.
Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
C. Gallagher
This dynamic midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. With few starting appearances in Spain this season, he is eager to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. United are strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on a temporary deal, remains a option, though wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, this young midfielder has struggled for game time on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the only available outcome.
K. Yildiz
The exciting Turkey forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing contract nearing its end, a host of English clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.
Kees Smit
This much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. The teenager is widely expected to complete a big-money move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.