🔗 Share this article

The January recruitment period is typically a time of significant rumour and possible major transfers. Numerous notable stars are being linked with transfers out of their present teams. We examine some of the top figures that could be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward available, it appears an important transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal featuring a sizeable release clause active for a short window at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative targets, leaving clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a previous move to Liverpool falling through. As his deal set to expire in the summer, this represents the London club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, such as City and several European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. Yet, a January exit remains difficult, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Wales winger has had first-team minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a small number of Premier League games. Reports suggest the London outfit is open to a transfer for the correct price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an inquiry.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal playmaker could be poised for a return to the Premier League following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still just twenty-eight, while his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible opportunity. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran Germany goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barça under the coach Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a winter exit seems highly probable. Aston Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The proven English striker has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his fading hopes of making the England World Cup. But, securing a deal poses significant hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary make any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as admirers.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético. Having few starts in Spain this term, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are heavily linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a option, though financial demands could be a problem.

H. Elliott

Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not become permanent. Because of specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next season appears to be the sole available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish attacker has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a race to keep one of Europe's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a major transfer in January. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal priced at around twenty-two million pounds.