The January transfer market proves to be a time of intense rumour and potential major deals. A number of high-profile footballers find themselves connected to moves out of their present teams. Here is a look at a selection of the major names that could be changing clubs this month.
Although the Black Stars' failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player in contention, indications are an important move is close. The 25-year-old possesses a contract with a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a short window in early January. Recent developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.
This England centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Liverpool collapsing. With his deal due to expire in the close season, this represents the London club's final chance to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of top clubs, including City and several European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure remains unlikely, particularly given the coach's dependence on the defender.
This Wales winger has found starting minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a handful of league games. Reports suggest the North London club is willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an inquiry.
Spurs value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.
This Portugal midfielder could be poised for a return to the Premier League following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a potential bargain. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spain that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
This experienced German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça under the coach Flick. Having lost his place and had an operation, a winter exit seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a possible suitor, but that move currently seems off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.
This prolific English centre-forward has continued finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading hopes of making the national squad. But, arranging a deal poses major challenges. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge weekly wages make any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as interested parties.
The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.
This energetic midfielder drew widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in La Liga this season, he is eager to find more minutes 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 option, although wage demands could be a problem.
Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the young player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a season, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season appears to be the only viable outcome.
This highly-rated Turkish forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this term. With his current deal running down, a host of English clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.
This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ side. This 19-year-old is widely expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing priced at around £22 million.
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