🔗 Share this article

The January recruitment period is typically a period of feverish speculation and potential major transfers. A number of high-profile footballers find themselves connected to transfers away from their present teams. We examine some of the major figures that might be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to reach the AFCON, which has left the forward in contention, it appears a major move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal featuring a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a short period in early January. Recent developments point to the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Former suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to alternative options, leaving clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool falling through. As his contract set to run out in the summer, this represents the London club's last opportunity to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, including City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter departure is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Wales winger has had starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Despite being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started only a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the London outfit is open to a transfer for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an interest.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now just twenty-eight, while his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he is a potential opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça following new manager Flick. Having lost his place and undergone surgery, a January exit looks highly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the keeper.

I. Toney

This prolific English striker has kept scoring regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of making the England World Cup. However, securing a transfer presents major challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported huge weekly wages make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as interested parties.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. With limited starts in La Liga this season, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been strongly linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a option, although wage demands could prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this talented player has found it tough for game time on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't become permanent. Because of specific rules about playing for two clubs in a season, a move back to Liverpool before next season seems to be the only viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

This exciting Turkey forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his existing contract nearing its end, a host of English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but are in a battle to keep one of the continent's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal priced at approximately £22 million.