This winter recruitment period is always a time of feverish rumour and possible big-money moves. A number of high-profile footballers find themselves connected to moves out of their current teams. This article explores some of the key figures who could be on the move this month.
Although the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player in contention, indications are a significant move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a deal featuring a substantial buy-out clause active for a brief period at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to other targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late move.
This English centre-back has continued to excel for Palace this season a summer move to Liverpool falling through. As his deal due to run out in the close season, January is the club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of top sides, including City and multiple European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a winter exit is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's dependence on the player.
The Welsh winger has had first-team minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun just a small number of league matches. It is understood the North London club would be open to a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an inquiry.
Spurs value the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.
This Portugal playmaker might be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, while his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be prepared to accept a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.
The experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça under new coach Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a winter exit looks highly probable. Aston Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing interest in the 33-year-old.
This prolific English striker has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of making the national squad. However, arranging a transfer presents significant challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported huge salary render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.
The energetic English midfielder attracted considerable attention in the summer but remained at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in La Liga this season, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on loan, remains a option, though financial demands might prove a stumbling block.
Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this young midfielder has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Because of specific rules regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next season appears to be the sole viable solution.
This exciting Turkish attacker has been in fine form for Juventus this term. With his current contract nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.
The much-admired Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a big-money move this month. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately twenty-two million pounds.
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