From Guéhi to Yildiz – Who Are Set to Be Transferring during the January Transfer Market?

This winter transfer market is always a time of significant speculation and possible major moves. Several high-profile stars find themselves connected to transfers out of their present clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the top figures that are poised to be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the player available, it appears a major transfer is imminent. The 25-year-old possesses a contract with a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a short period in early January. Recent developments suggest Manchester City have emerged as his services. Other interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

The England defender has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. As his deal due to run out in the close season, this represents the London club's last opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, such as City and several European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit is considered unlikely, especially given the manager's dependence on the player.

B. Johnson

This Welsh winger has found first-team opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Despite being the club's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started only a small number of Premier League games. It is understood the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the correct price, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an interest.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a return to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona following new manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January exit seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential 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 prolific England centre-forward has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of making the national squad. However, arranging a transfer presents significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. Having limited starts in Spain this term, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United are heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, remains a option, although wage demands might be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer appears to be the only viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward is in excellent form for Juventus this season. As his existing contract nearing its end, many Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to secure 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 Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ side. The 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at around twenty-two million pounds.

Justin Simpson
Justin Simpson

A tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering AI, cybersecurity, and startup ecosystems across Europe.