This January recruitment period proves to be a time of feverish rumour and possible major moves. Several prominent players are being linked with moves away from their current clubs. We examine a selection of the key names who are poised to be changing clubs in January.
Despite the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has left the player in contention, reports suggest a significant move is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a deal with a substantial release clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Recent developments indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Former interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to other options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.
This England defender has impress for Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. As his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the London club's final chance to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of top sides, including City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January departure is considered difficult, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.
This Welsh forward has found first-team minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although being the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club is willing to consider a transfer for the right valuation, believed to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an inquiry.
Spurs rate the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.
This Portuguese playmaker could be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in Saudi Arabia. Still just 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a possible bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spain that he is prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
The veteran German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barcelona under new manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a winter exit looks highly likely. Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing curiosity in the keeper.
This prolific English striker has continued scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of making the national squad. But, securing a deal poses significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.
The dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he shone on loan, remains a option, although wage constraints could prove a stumbling block.
Although starring and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Because of specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next season seems to be the only viable solution.
The highly-rated Turkey forward is in excellent form for Juventus this term. With his existing contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to retain one of the continent's brightest prospects.
This highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ side. This teenager is heavily tipped to make a major transfer in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at around £22 million.
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