This January transfer market is always a period of intense rumour and potential big-money moves. Several high-profile players find themselves connected to moves away from their present teams. This article explores a selection of the top names that could be changing clubs this month.
Despite the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward available, indications are a major move is close. This 25-year-old has a deal with a substantial release clause active for a brief window in early January. Latest developments suggest Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.
The English defender has continued to excel for Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. As his deal set to run out in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter exit is considered difficult, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.
This Wales winger has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started just a handful of league matches. Reports suggest the London club would be open to a transfer for the correct valuation, believed to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an interest.
Spurs value the Welsh international at around £40m.
This Portugal playmaker might be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential opportunity. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.
The experienced Germany goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barça following new manager Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January exit looks increasingly probable. Aston Villa were initially linked as a potential suitor, but that move now appears off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing interest in the 33-year-old.
The proven England striker has kept finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of making the national World Cup. But, securing a transfer presents significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.
The striker helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.
The dynamic English midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in Spain this season, he is eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, though financial demands might be a problem.
Despite excelling and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the talented player has found it tough for game time on loan at 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 season seems to be the sole available solution.
The exciting Turkish forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current contract nearing its end, many English sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.
The much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ first team. The teenager is heavily tipped to complete a big-money move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.