The winter recruitment period is always a period of significant speculation and potential big-money moves. Numerous prominent players are being linked with transfers away from their present clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the major names that might be on the move in January.
Despite the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has kept the player available, it appears a significant move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a £65 million buy-out clause applicable for a two-week window at the start of the month. Latest developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative options, leaving teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late bid.
The English defender has impress for Palace this season a summer move to Anfield falling through. With his deal due to expire in the summer, this represents the London club's last opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of elite sides, including City and multiple European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter departure is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.
The Wales forward has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the side's top scorer last season, he has started just a small number of league matches. It is understood the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an inquiry.
Spurs value the Welsh international at around £40m.
This Portugal midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
The veteran Germany goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barça following new manager Flick. Having lost his place and undergone an operation, a January departure seems increasingly probable. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
This prolific England centre-forward has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his fading hopes of making the national squad. However, arranging a deal presents significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary render any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all mentioned as interested parties.
Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.
The dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starts in La Liga this term, he is keen to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, although financial constraints could be a problem.
Despite excelling and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the talented midfielder has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't become permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool before next season seems to be the only available solution.
This highly-rated Turkey forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his existing contract nearing its end, many English clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy agreement but are in a race to keep one of the continent's most promising prospects.
This highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at around twenty-two million pounds.
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