This January transfer market is typically a period of intense rumour and potential major deals. Numerous prominent stars find themselves linked with transfers away from their current clubs. We examine a selection of the major names who could be changing clubs this month.
Despite Ghana's inability to reach the AFCON, which has kept the forward available, reports suggest a major transfer is close. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a £65 million buy-out clause applicable for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to other targets, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a late bid.
The England defender has continued to excel for Palace this season a previous move to Liverpool falling through. With his contract set to expire in the close season, January is the London club's final opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous elite sides, including Manchester City and several European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. Yet, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the manager's dependence on the defender.
This Welsh winger has had first-team opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has begun just a small number of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the North London club would be open to a sale for the right valuation, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an inquiry.
Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
This Portugal midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the Premier League after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, and with his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he is a potential bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.
The experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça under new coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter departure seems increasingly likely. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.
This proven England striker has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of making the England squad. But, securing a transfer presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous weekly wages render any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as interested parties.
The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.
This dynamic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. With limited starts in La Liga this season, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he shone on loan, is also a possibility, though financial demands could be a stumbling block.
Although starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, this young midfielder has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the loan move will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a season, a return to his parent club before next season seems to be the sole available solution.
This highly-rated Turkey attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current deal nearing its end, a host of English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are eager to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.
The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a major transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at approximately £22 million.
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