🔗 Share this article

The January recruitment period is typically a period of intense rumour and possible big-money transfers. Several prominent stars are being connected to transfers out of their present teams. We examine some of the top names that might be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player available, indications are a significant move is close. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a sizeable release clause applicable for a two-week period in early January. Latest reports suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

This England defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace this season a previous move to Liverpool collapsing. With his contract set to expire in the close season, January is the club's final opportunity to obtain a fee for their captain. A host of elite clubs, including Manchester City and several European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. However, a January exit is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

B. Johnson

This Wales winger has had starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, he has begun only a small number of league matches. It is understood the London outfit would be open to a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.

Spurs value the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça following new manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone an operation, a January departure looks increasingly probable. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a possible suitor, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

This prolific England striker has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could boost his fading chances of being in the England squad. But, arranging a transfer poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be eager to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United have been strongly linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, though financial demands could prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the young player has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool before next season appears to be the only viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish attacker is in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. As his current deal running down, a host of Premier League sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

This much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This teenager is heavily expected to make a major transfer in January. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing strong competition from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.