This January recruitment period is typically a period of feverish rumour and potential major transfers. Numerous notable footballers find themselves connected to moves away from their present teams. This article explores a selection of the major names who are poised to be changing clubs this month.
Despite the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward in contention, indications are an important move is close. The 25-year-old has a deal with a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a two-week window in early January. Recent developments point to Manchester City have emerged as his services. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to other targets, leaving clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late bid.
The England defender has continued to impress for Palace despite a previous move to Liverpool collapsing. As his contract set to expire in the summer, January is the club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. However, a winter exit is considered unlikely, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.
This Welsh forward has found first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Although being the side's top scorer last season, he has begun only a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the London club is willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an interest.
Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
This Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, while his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a possible bargain. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spanish media that he is prepared to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.
The experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona following new manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone surgery, a January exit seems increasingly likely. Villa were once linked as a potential suitor, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.
The prolific England centre-forward has continued finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of making the England squad. However, arranging a transfer poses significant challenges. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his alleged enormous salary make any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.
The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.
The energetic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United are heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, though wage demands could be a problem.
Despite starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, this young player has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Because of specific rules regarding representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next summer appears to be the sole available solution.
This exciting Turkey attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing deal running down, a host of Premier League clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising prospects.
The much-admired Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a major transfer this month. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal priced at approximately £22 million.
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