The winter transfer market proves to be a time of significant rumour and possible major transfers. Numerous notable stars find themselves connected to transfers out of their current teams. This article explores a selection of the major figures that might be changing clubs this month.
Despite Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has left the player in contention, indications are a major move is imminent. This 25-year-old has a deal featuring a £65 million release clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Recent reports suggest Manchester City have emerged as his services. Other interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.
This England defender has excel for Crystal Palace this season a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his deal due to expire in the close season, this represents the London club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, including City and several European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. However, a winter departure remains unlikely, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.
The Welsh forward has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Despite finishing as the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the North London outfit is open to a transfer for the correct price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an interest.
Tottenham value the Welsh international at around £40m.
The Portuguese playmaker might be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just twenty-eight, while his contract ending in the summer, he represents a potential bargain. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
The experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barça under the coach Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a January exit looks increasingly probable. Villa were once linked as a potential suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.
The prolific English striker has continued scoring regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could boost his fading chances of being in the England squad. However, arranging a deal presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge salary make any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.
This energetic midfielder drew considerable attention in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in Spain this term, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United are heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on a temporary deal, remains a option, although financial demands could prove a problem.
Although excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this young player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a season, a move back to his parent club prior to next season appears to be the only available outcome.
The highly-rated Turkish attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. As his current deal nearing its end, a host of English clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a new long-term agreement but face a battle to keep one of the continent's brightest young talents.
This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. This teenager is heavily expected to complete a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal priced at approximately £22 million.
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