🔗 Share this article

This winter recruitment period proves to be a time of feverish rumour and possible big-money transfers. A number of notable players are being connected to moves out of their present clubs. We examine some of the major figures that might be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player in contention, indications are a major move is close. This 25-year-old possesses a deal with a £65 million buy-out clause active for a short window in early January. Latest developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to other options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

This English defender has continued to impress for Palace despite a previous transfer to Anfield collapsing. As his deal due to expire in the close season, this represents the club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite clubs, including Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. However, a January exit is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has had starting opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, he has begun just a small number of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the correct price, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an inquiry.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal midfielder could be poised for a comeback to the Premier League following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he is a potential bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be willing to accept a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona following new coach Hansi Flick. After lost his place and had an operation, a winter departure seems highly probable. Aston Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

This prolific English centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could boost his fading chances of being in the national squad. But, arranging a transfer poses major challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported enormous salary render any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all mentioned as admirers.

Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to a win in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder drew widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. With few starting appearances in Spain this term, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a option, although wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the young player has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for two clubs in a season, a return to Liverpool before next summer seems to be the sole viable solution.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkish attacker is in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. As his existing contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but face a race to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Dutch midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ side. This teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.