The January transfer market is typically a period of intense rumour and possible major transfers. A number of notable footballers find themselves connected to transfers out of their present clubs. We examine a selection of the major figures who might be on the move in January.
Despite Ghana's failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player available, it appears a major transfer is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract featuring a £65 million release clause applicable for a short window in early January. Latest developments point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Other interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late bid.
The English defender has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Anfield collapsing. With his contract set to expire in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous elite sides, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. However, a January departure remains unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.
This Welsh winger has had first-team minutes hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Despite being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has started just a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the North London outfit is willing to consider a sale for the right price, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an inquiry.
Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.
The Portuguese midfielder might be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only 28, while his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he is a possible opportunity. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he is prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.
This experienced Germany goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça following the coach Flick. After lost his place and had surgery, a January departure seems increasingly probable. Aston Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that move currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.
The prolific English striker has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of making the England World Cup. However, securing a deal poses major hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.
Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.
The energetic English midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be keen to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United have been strongly linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, remains a option, though wage constraints could prove 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 on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next season appears to be the sole viable solution.
The highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for Juventus this season. With his current deal running down, a host of English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a battle to retain one of the continent's brightest young talents.
This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ side. This 19-year-old is widely expected to complete a big-money move in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.