From Guéhi to Yildiz – Which Players Could Be Transferring during the winter Transfer Market?

This winter transfer market is always a period of feverish rumour and potential big-money deals. A number of high-profile footballers are being connected to moves out of their current teams. This article explores some of the top names that could be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward in contention, indications are a major move is imminent. This 25-year-old has a contract with a substantial release clause active for a two-week period in early January. Latest developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, leaving clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has excel for Palace despite a previous move to Liverpool falling through. With his contract due to run out in the summer, this represents the London club's last opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of elite clubs, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. However, a winter departure remains difficult, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.

B. Johnson

The Wales winger has found first-team minutes limited at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started only a handful of league matches. It is understood the London club would be open to a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a return to the Premier League after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced German goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barça under new coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January exit seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a possible destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This proven English centre-forward has continued finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his fading hopes of being in the England World Cup. But, arranging a deal presents significant challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.

The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in Spain this season, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, though financial constraints might be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this young player has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a season, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season appears to be the only viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing contract nearing its end, many English clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but face a battle to keep one of the continent's brightest prospects.

Kees Smit

The much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. This teenager is widely expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.