The January recruitment period proves to be a time of feverish rumour and potential major moves. Numerous high-profile footballers find themselves connected to moves out of their present teams. Here is a look at a selection of the key figures who might be changing clubs this month.
Although the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player in contention, indications are an important transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a brief period at the start of the month. Recent developments indicate the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute move.
The England centre-back has continued to impress for Palace this season a summer transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his deal set to run out in the close season, this represents the London club's last chance to obtain a fee for their skipper. A host of elite clubs, including City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's reliance on the player.
This Wales forward has had first-team minutes limited at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a small number of league games. It is understood the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, believed to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an interest.
Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.
The Portugal midfielder might be poised for a return to the English top flight following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he is a possible bargain. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.
This experienced German shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following new coach Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a January departure seems highly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing interest in the keeper.
This proven English centre-forward has continued finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of making the England squad. However, securing a transfer presents major challenges. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his reported enormous weekly wages render any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to a win in the domestic cup final.
This dynamic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético. Having few starts in La Liga this season, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are strongly connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, is also a option, although financial constraints could prove a problem.
Despite starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Due to specific rules regarding representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the sole viable solution.
The highly-rated Turkey attacker is in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are eager to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to retain one of the continent's brightest young talents.
The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. The teenager is heavily expected to make a big-money move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at around twenty-two million pounds.
A seasoned gambling analyst with over a decade of experience in reviewing online casinos and slot games, specializing in player safety and strategy.