🔗 Share this article

The January recruitment period is typically a period of intense rumour and potential big-money moves. Numerous high-profile footballers are being connected to transfers away from their current teams. Here is a look at some of the major figures who could be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the AFCON, this has kept the forward available, it appears an important move is imminent. This 25-year-old has a deal featuring a substantial release clause applicable for a brief period in early January. Latest developments point to Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Other suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

The English defender has impress for Crystal Palace despite a previous move to Anfield collapsing. As his contract due to expire in the close season, January is the London club's last chance to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of elite sides, including City and several European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a January departure remains difficult, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales winger has found first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has begun only a small number of league games. Reports suggest the London outfit is willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an interest.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.

R. Neves

This Portugal playmaker might be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, while his contract ending in the summer, he represents a potential opportunity. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This experienced German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça following the manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter exit seems highly likely. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that move currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.

I. Toney

This prolific English centre-forward has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of being in the national World Cup. But, arranging a transfer poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported huge salary render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.

The striker helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

This energetic midfielder drew widespread attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With limited starting appearances in La Liga this season, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, is also a option, although financial demands might be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite excelling and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the talented player has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the only viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

This exciting Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. As his current deal running down, many Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is widely expected to make a major move this month. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.