From Guéhi to Kenan Yildiz – Who Could Be Transferring in the winter Transfer Window?
The winter transfer window is always a period of intense rumour and potential big-money moves. Several high-profile stars find themselves connected to transfers away from their present clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the top names that are poised to be on the move this month.
A. Semenyo
Although Ghana's inability to reach the AFCON, this has kept the player in contention, it appears a significant transfer is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a substantial release clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Latest developments point to Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to other options, potentially opening the door for teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.
Marc Guéhi
This England defender has continued to impress for Palace despite a summer transfer to Liverpool falling through. As his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the club's final opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. A host of elite sides, including City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a January departure is considered difficult, especially given the manager's dependence on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
This Wales winger has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started only a handful of league games. It is understood the London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the right valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an inquiry.
Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.
Rúben Neves
This Portuguese playmaker might be poised for a return to the English top flight following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now just twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spain that he would be prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
This veteran Germany goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following new coach Flick. After lost his place and had surgery, a winter exit seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a potential destination, but that move currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
I. Toney
This proven English centre-forward has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of being in the national squad. However, arranging a transfer presents significant challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his reported enormous salary render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.
Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
Conor Gallagher
This dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. Having few starts in Spain this term, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, although wage demands could prove a problem.
Harvey Elliott
Although starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't become permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club before next season seems to be the only available outcome.
Kenan Yildiz
This highly-rated Turkey forward is in excellent form for Juventus this season. As his current contract running down, many Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but face a race to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.
K. Smit
The much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. The teenager is widely tipped to make a big-money move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.