🔗 Share this article

The winter recruitment period is always a time of significant speculation and possible major transfers. Numerous high-profile players are being connected to moves away from their current clubs. We examine some of the top figures that are poised to be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player in contention, indications are a major transfer is close. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal featuring a substantial buy-out clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest reports indicate the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Other interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to other options, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a late move.

M. Guéhi

The England defender has continued to impress for Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. With his deal due to expire in the close season, this represents the club's final chance to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous elite clubs, such as City and multiple European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a January departure remains unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.

B. Johnson

The Welsh forward has had starting minutes limited at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, he has started just a small number of Premier League games. Reports suggest the North London outfit is open to a sale for the right price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an interest.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a return to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now just 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential opportunity. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spain that he is willing to take a pay cut for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following new manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter exit looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a possible destination, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

This proven England striker has continued scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of being in the England World Cup. However, arranging a transfer poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as interested parties.

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

C. Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With few starts in La Liga this term, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, remains a option, although financial demands could be a problem.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of specific rules regarding playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next summer appears to be the sole available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkey attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a race to retain one of Europe's brightest prospects.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ side. The teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.