The January transfer window is a thrilling time for football fans, as it brings the potential for exciting moves and new beginnings. But with so much speculation, it can be hard to keep track of who's going where. So, let's dive into some of the hottest transfer rumors and potential deals that could shape the future of the beautiful game.
The Big Names on the Move
Marc Guehi: This Crystal Palace defender has been a hot topic of discussion. With his contract expiring in the summer, Palace faces a tough decision. Do they cash in now or risk losing him on a free transfer later? Guehi has attracted interest from top European clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich, as well as Premier League giants Liverpool and Manchester City. BBC Sport's Sami Mokbel predicts Guehi will stay put until his contract ends, giving him a plethora of options to choose from.
Brennan Johnson: Remember the name Brennan Johnson! He etched his name into Tottenham folklore by scoring the winning goal in the Europa League final against Manchester United. However, with a new manager, Thomas Frank, Johnson's role has shifted. He's made only a handful of starts this season and hasn't found the back of the net since the opening games. Crystal Palace has agreed to a £35m fee, but Johnson is still undecided about moving across London. Bournemouth and Aston Villa are also keen.
Harvey Elliott: Elliott's loan spell at Aston Villa hasn't gone as planned, with limited playing time. BBC Sport's Nick Mashiter suggests Elliott is not in Unai Emery's plans at Villa. With his future uncertain, could a return to Liverpool be on the cards? Or perhaps a move to a league with a later start, like the MLS?
Ruben Neves: After a successful stint at Wolves, Neves has spent the last two years in Saudi Arabia. With his contract expiring in the summer and no new deal on the horizon, Premier League clubs could be circling. BBC Sport's Simon Stone believes Manchester United might be interested, given their need for midfield reinforcements and Neves' Premier League experience.
Oscar Bobb: Bobb has made a decent number of appearances for Manchester City this season, but with Antoine Semenyo joining the club, his playing time could be further limited. Borussia Dortmund has shown strong interest, but Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, Leeds, and Newcastle have also been mentioned as potential destinations. BBC Radio Leeds' Adam Pope hints that Bobb could be a creative addition Leeds has been seeking.
Joshua Zirkzee: Zirkzee scored for Manchester United in their final game of 2025, but his future seems to lie elsewhere. Simon Stone reports that Roma is keen on bringing the former Bologna man back to Serie A. With United's stance on not selling players without replacements, a move could be on the cards.
Joe Willock: Willock has made over 100 Premier League appearances for Newcastle, but his game time has been limited this season. With Newcastle tracking Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar, Willock could be sold to make way for Smit's potential arrival.
Other Potential Moves to Watch
Chelsea: Nizaar Kinsella reports that Chelsea's focus this window is more on outgoings. Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi are available for sale or a domestic loan. With all overseas loan slots filled, Chelsea can only loan players within England unless they recall one of their loanees.
AZ Alkmaar's Sven Mijnans: This attacking midfielder has attracted interest from the Premier League, with West Ham among the clubs monitoring him. He's had a productive season with 16 goal contributions for the Dutch side.
Liverpool's Wataru Endo and Federico Chiesa: Both players have seen limited action this season, and with the World Cup approaching, they might seek regular playing time elsewhere.
Manchester City's James Trafford and Stefan Ortega: Trafford, the 23-year-old goalkeeper, needs regular playing time in a World Cup year, but club sources say they have no interest in letting him leave. German goalkeeper Stefan Ortega is more likely to depart, as he's now fourth-choice.
Kalvin Phillips: The English midfielder has made just one appearance this season and is way down the pecking order at City. A move in January could benefit all parties.
And there you have it! The January transfer window is always a rollercoaster ride, and these are just some of the potential moves that could happen. Who do you think will make the biggest impact with their new club? And which players might surprise us with their next move? Let's discuss in the comments!
