From Marc Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Who Could Be Making a Switch in the January Transfer Window?

The winter recruitment period is always a time of intense rumour and possible major moves. A number of prominent footballers find themselves linked with transfers away from their current clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the major figures that might be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player available, indications are a significant move is close. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a substantial buy-out clause active for a two-week period in early January. Recent developments indicate the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Former interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to other targets, leaving clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Anfield collapsing. As his contract due to run out in the close season, this represents the club's final opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite sides, such as City and several continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. However, a winter departure remains unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.

B. Johnson

The Welsh winger has found starting opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Despite being the side's leading goalscorer last season, he has begun only a small number of Premier League games. Reports suggest the London outfit is willing to consider a sale for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an interest.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

R. Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, and with his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he is a possible opportunity. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is prepared to accept a pay cut for a switch to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran German shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça under new manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a winter exit seems highly likely. Aston Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This proven England centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of being in the national World Cup. However, securing a transfer poses major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge weekly wages render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. Having limited starts in La Liga this season, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are strongly connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a option, though financial demands could be a problem.

H. Elliott

Despite excelling and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, this young midfielder has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season appears to be the only viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey forward is in fine form for Juventus this term. As his current contract nearing its end, many English sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. The Turin club are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a race to keep one of the continent's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

This much-admired Dutch midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. The 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a big-money move in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing priced at around twenty-two million pounds.