🔗 Share this article

The winter transfer market is typically a time of intense speculation and possible big-money deals. A number of prominent stars find themselves linked with moves out of their current clubs. This article explores a selection of the major names that might be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player in contention, indications are a major move is close. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal featuring a £65 million release clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Latest developments indicate the Premier League champions have emerged as his signature. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a late bid.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. As his contract set to expire in the close season, this represents the London club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of elite sides, including Manchester City and several European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the coach's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Welsh forward has found first-team minutes limited at Tottenham this term. Despite being the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has begun only a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the North London club would be open to a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal playmaker could be set for a return to the Premier League after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still just 28, while his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to accept a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new coach Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January departure seems highly likely. Aston Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England centre-forward has kept scoring regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could boost his dwindling chances of being in the national squad. But, arranging a deal poses major hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he is eager to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, though financial constraints could be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this talented player has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club before next season seems to be the only viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish attacker has been in fine form for Juventus this season. With his current deal running down, many English sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but face a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. This teenager is heavily expected to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at around twenty-two million pounds.