The January transfer window is always a time of feverish speculation and potential major moves. A number of prominent stars are being linked with transfers out of their present clubs. This article explores some of the major figures that could be changing clubs this month.
Although Ghana's failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player in contention, it appears a major transfer is close. This 25-year-old has a contract featuring a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest developments suggest Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Former interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to other targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.
The England defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. With his deal set to expire in the close season, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, such as City and multiple European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. However, a January departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.
This Welsh winger has had starting minutes limited at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has started just a small number of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club would be willing to consider a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an inquiry.
Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.
The Portuguese playmaker could be set for a comeback to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now just 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spain that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
This veteran Germany goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following new coach Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January departure looks increasingly probable. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a possible destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing curiosity in the keeper.
This prolific England centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of making the England World Cup. However, arranging a deal presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge salary make any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all mentioned as admirers.
The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.
This energetic midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be eager to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United have been strongly connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, although wage constraints might be a problem.
Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this talented player has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club before next season appears to be the sole available outcome.
The exciting Turkish forward has been in fine form for Juventus this term. As his existing deal running down, many English clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a race to retain one of the continent's brightest prospects.
This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After impressing at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. This teenager is widely expected to complete a big-money move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.
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