This January transfer market is typically a time of intense rumour and potential major moves. Numerous notable footballers find themselves linked with moves out of their present teams. This article explores a selection of the top figures who might be changing clubs this month.
Despite the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward in contention, reports suggest a significant move is close. The 25-year-old possesses a deal featuring a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a short period at the start of the month. Recent reports suggest Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to other targets, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute move.
This England centre-back has continued to excel for Palace despite a summer transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his contract set to run out in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a fee for their captain. A host of top sides, including City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. However, a winter departure remains difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the player.
The Wales winger has had starting opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Despite being the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun just a handful of league games. Reports suggest the North London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the right valuation, believed to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.
Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at around £40m.
The Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in Saudi Arabia. Now just 28, and with his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.
The veteran German shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barça following new manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a January exit looks highly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.
The proven English striker has kept scoring regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of making the England squad. But, securing a transfer poses significant hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary render any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.
The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.
This dynamic English midfielder drew widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in La Liga this season, he may be eager to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United have been strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although financial constraints could be a problem.
Despite excelling and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this young player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Because of specific rules regarding playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool before next summer seems to be the only viable outcome.
This highly-rated Turkey attacker is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. As his current contract nearing its end, many English clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.
The much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. The teenager is widely expected to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at around twenty-two million pounds.
Mikael is a seasoned journalist with over 15 years of experience covering Nordic affairs, specializing in political analysis and investigative reporting.
Bruce Molina
Bruce Molina
Bruce Molina
Bruce Molina