The winter transfer window is typically a period of intense rumour and possible big-money deals. Numerous notable players are being connected to transfers out of their current clubs. This article explores a selection of the top figures who could be on the move in January.
Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the player available, reports suggest an important transfer is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a deal featuring a sizeable release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent reports point to Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Former interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other options, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute bid.
The English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. As his contract set to run out in the close season, this represents the London club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite sides, including City and multiple continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a January exit is considered difficult, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.
The Welsh forward has had first-team minutes hard to come by at Spurs this term. Despite being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started just a handful of league games. Reports suggest the London outfit is open to a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an inquiry.
Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.
The Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential bargain. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.
This veteran German goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barça under the coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a winter exit looks highly probable. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing curiosity in the keeper.
The prolific England centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could boost his fading hopes of making the England World Cup. However, securing a deal presents major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his reported enormous weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.
The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
This dynamic English midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on loan, remains a possibility, although financial demands might be a problem.
Although starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the talented player has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't become permanent. Due to specific rules regarding representing multiple teams in a season, a return to Liverpool prior to next season appears to be the only available outcome.
This highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for Juventus this term. With his existing contract nearing its end, many English clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a battle to keep one of Europe's brightest prospects.
This much-admired Netherlands midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a major transfer this month. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.
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