Concerning Marc Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Which Players Could Be on the Move this January Transfer Market?
This winter transfer window is always a time of intense speculation and potential big-money moves. Several notable players find themselves linked with moves out of their current teams. Here is a look at some of the top figures who might be changing clubs in January.
Antoine Semenyo
Although Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward in contention, indications are an important move is close. The 25-year-old has a contract featuring a substantial release clause applicable for a two-week window in early January. Recent reports suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to other options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.
M. Guéhi
This English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool collapsing. With his contract set to run out in the close season, this represents the London club's final chance to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. However, a winter departure is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's reliance on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
This Wales winger has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Despite being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has started just a handful of league games. It is understood the London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an interest.
Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.
R. Neves
The Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the Premier League after a period in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.
Marc-André ter Stegen
This veteran German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barça following new manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and had an operation, a January exit seems increasingly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a possible suitor, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
I. Toney
This proven English centre-forward has kept finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might boost his dwindling chances of being in the England squad. But, securing a transfer poses major challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.
The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.
C. Gallagher
The energetic midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be eager to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, though wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.
Harvey Elliott
Despite excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club before next season appears to be the only viable solution.
Kenan Yildiz
This exciting Turkish attacker is in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. With his current deal running down, a host of Premier League clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but face a race to keep one of the continent's brightest young talents.
Kees Smit
This highly-touted Dutch midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a big-money move this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.