Concerning Marc Guéhi and Kenan Yildiz – Who Could Be on the Move in the January Transfer Market?
The winter transfer market is always a time of intense speculation and possible big-money deals. Numerous prominent players are being linked with moves out of their current clubs. Here is a look at some of the major figures that are poised to be changing clubs in January.
A. Semenyo
Despite Ghana's failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward available, indications are an important move is close. This 25-year-old possesses a contract featuring a sizeable release clause applicable for a short period in early January. Recent developments suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to other targets, leaving teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.
Marc Guéhi
The English centre-back has continued to impress for Palace despite a previous transfer to Anfield falling through. With his deal due to expire in the close season, January is the club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. However, a winter exit is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's reliance on the defender.
Brennan Johnson
This Welsh winger has found starting minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a small number of league matches. It is understood the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, believed 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 showing an inquiry.
Spurs value Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.
R. Neves
The Portuguese playmaker could be set for a return to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only twenty-eight, and with his contract ending in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he is prepared to accept a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.
Marc-André ter Stegen
This experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barcelona following the manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter departure seems increasingly probable. Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing interest in the keeper.
I. Toney
The proven England striker has continued scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling chances of being in the national World Cup. But, securing a deal presents significant challenges. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his reported enormous salary make any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.
Conor Gallagher
The dynamic midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With limited starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United are heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, although wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.
H. Elliott
Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this talented player has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of specific rules regarding representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club prior to next season seems to be the only available solution.
Kenan Yildiz
The exciting Turkey forward has been in fine form for Juventus this season. As his existing contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but face 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 style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. This teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.