This winter transfer window is typically a time of significant speculation and potential big-money transfers. Numerous high-profile stars are being linked with moves away from their current clubs. We examine a selection of the key figures who might be on the move this month.
Although Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward in contention, it appears an important move is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a deal featuring a sizeable release clause active for a brief period at the start of the month. Latest developments point to the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Former interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for teams 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 transfer to Anfield falling through. With his contract due to run out in the summer, this represents the club's final chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite sides, such as City and multiple European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. However, a January departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.
This Welsh winger has had starting minutes hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, he has begun just a handful of league matches. It is understood the North London club would be open to a sale for the right price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.
Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.
This Portuguese midfielder could be set for a return to the Premier League after a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential bargain. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.
This experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça following new coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter exit seems highly likely. Villa were initially linked as a potential suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing interest in the 33-year-old.
The proven England centre-forward has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of making the England World Cup. But, securing a transfer poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported enormous salary make any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as interested parties.
The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.
This energetic midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in Spain this season, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are strongly linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on loan, remains a possibility, although wage constraints might be a stumbling block.
Despite starring and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this young player has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of specific rules regarding playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer seems to be the only available solution.
The highly-rated Turkey attacker has been in fine form for Juventus this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, many English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to keep one of Europe's brightest young talents.
The highly-touted Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. The teenager is widely expected to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing priced at around £22 million.
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