From Marc Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Which Players Are Set to Be Making a Switch in the January Transfer Window?

This winter recruitment period is typically a period of feverish speculation and possible big-money deals. Numerous high-profile players are being linked with transfers away from their current teams. Here is a look at a selection of the major names who could be changing clubs in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has left the forward available, reports suggest a major move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a substantial release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Other interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

The England centre-back has excel for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. With his contract due to expire in the summer, January is the club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure remains unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.

B. Johnson

This Welsh forward has had starting minutes limited at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a handful of league games. It is understood the North London club would be willing to consider a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an interest.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in Saudi Arabia. Still just 28, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he represents a potential bargain. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the player. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barça following new coach Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter departure looks increasingly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a possible destination, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This prolific England centre-forward has kept scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his dwindling chances of making the national World Cup. However, arranging a deal poses major hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged huge salary make any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as admirers.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, though wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite excelling and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the young midfielder has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a season, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season appears to be the sole viable solution.

K. Yildiz

This exciting Turkish forward is in fine form for Juventus this season. As his existing deal nearing its end, a host of English clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term agreement but are in a battle to retain one of the continent's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to make a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately twenty-two million pounds.

Melissa Mitchell
Melissa Mitchell

A cultural critic and writer passionate about exploring modern societal trends and personal development.