🔗 Share this article

This winter transfer window proves to be a period of feverish rumour and potential big-money moves. A number of high-profile stars are being linked with moves out of their current clubs. This article explores a selection of the key figures who are poised to be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the forward in contention, it appears an important transfer is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Latest reports point to Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to alternative targets, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.

M. Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to excel for Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. As his contract due to run out in the summer, this represents the club's final opportunity to obtain a fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, including Manchester City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh forward has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. 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 would be willing to consider a transfer for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an inquiry.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

R. Neves

The Portugal playmaker might be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a potential opportunity. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran Germany goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona following new manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter exit looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing curiosity in the keeper.

I. Toney

This proven England striker has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of being in the national World Cup. But, arranging a deal presents significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged huge salary make any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as interested parties.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder attracted considerable interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. Having limited starts in Spain this season, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, is also a option, though wage constraints could prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this talented player has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing two clubs in a season, a move back to Liverpool prior to next summer seems to be the sole viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkey attacker has been in fine form for Juventus this term. As his current deal running down, many Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term agreement but face a race to retain one of the continent's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

This much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. The 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a big-money move this month. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around twenty-two million pounds.