The winter transfer window is always a period of feverish speculation and possible big-money transfers. A number of notable footballers are being linked with moves out of their current teams. We examine a selection of the major names who are poised to be on the move in January.
Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward available, indications are a major move is close. The 25-year-old possesses a contract with a sizeable release clause applicable for a brief period at the start of the month. Recent reports suggest Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a late move.
The English defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace this season a previous transfer to Anfield falling through. With his contract due to expire in the close season, this represents the London club's final opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of elite clubs, such as City and several European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the manager's dependence on the player.
This Welsh winger has had first-team opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although being the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has begun only a small number of league matches. It is understood the North London outfit is open to a transfer for the correct valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an inquiry.
Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
This Portugal playmaker could be set for a comeback to the Premier League after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only twenty-eight, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spain that he would be prepared to accept a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.
This veteran German shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barça under the coach Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a January departure looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a possible suitor, but that move now appears off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.
The proven England striker has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of making the England World Cup. But, arranging a transfer poses major challenges. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.
The striker helped his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
This dynamic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he is eager to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United have been heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a option, though wage demands might be a stumbling block.
Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this talented player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a season, a return to Liverpool before next season appears to be the only viable solution.
The exciting Turkey forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, a host of Premier League clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to secure the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to keep one of Europe's brightest young talents.
This highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. This teenager is heavily tipped to make a big-money move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately twenty-two million pounds.
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