🔗 Share this article

This January recruitment period proves to be a period of significant speculation and potential big-money transfers. Several notable footballers find themselves connected to transfers away from their current teams. Here is a look at some of the major figures that are poised to 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 in contention, reports suggest an important transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a substantial buy-out clause active for a short window at the start of the month. Latest reports point to Manchester City have emerged as his services. Other interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.

Marc Guéhi

The England centre-back has excel for Crystal Palace this season a previous transfer to Anfield falling through. With his deal due to expire in the close season, January is the London club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of elite sides, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. However, a winter exit remains difficult, particularly given the coach's reliance on the player.

B. Johnson

This Wales winger has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Despite being the club's top scorer last season, he has started just a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the North London outfit is open to a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

R. Neves

The Portugal midfielder could be set for a return to the Premier League following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible opportunity. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This experienced German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça under the manager Flick. Having lost his place and had an operation, a winter exit looks highly probable. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The proven England striker has continued scoring regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of making the national World Cup. However, arranging a deal presents major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported enormous weekly wages make any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all mentioned as interested parties.

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

Conor Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is eager to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, though wage constraints might be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this young player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the sole viable solution.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkish forward is in excellent form for Juventus this term. With his current contract running down, many English clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

The much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a major move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal priced at around £22 million.