The 2026 January transfer window is fast approaching, and with the World Cup looming in the summer, several out-of-favour Premier League players are expected to push for moves in a bid to secure a place on the plane for their national teams.
From out of favour to out of contract, there are many different reasons players could be on the move in the upcoming window.
Transfer News Blitz writer Taylor Stephenson has identified four Premier League stars who could be on the move when the window opens.
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Antoine Semenyo
Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo has started the season in blistering form, scoring six goals and providing three assists in his first 11 matches.
Unsurprisingly, he has attracted interest from a host of Premier League clubs – especially with reports suggesting a £60million release clause becomes active in January.
Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham are believed to be leading the chase, while Newcastle, Chelsea and even Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring developments on the south coast.
When Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola was asked about Semenyo’s future, he said: “We are in November. Antoine is our player, he will continue being our player. In January, you can ask me about the market in January, but right now I’m not worried about the next markets.”
Marc Guehi
Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi came close to a move to Liverpool on deadline day, with the Reds reportedly willing to pay around £35million. However, Palace pulled the plug on the deal after failing to secure a suitable replacement for their captain.
With Guehi entering the final months of his contract, Palace may be forced to cash in during January to avoid losing him on a free in the summer, with it looking unlikely Guehi will sign a new deal for the Eagles.
Liverpool remains the most likely destination – particularly given their current defensive issues and rumours circulating about Ibrahima Konate’s departure. The Reds will face stiff competition for his signature, though, with Man United also said to be eyeing a move.
Kobbie Mainoo
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim rejected a transfer request from midfielder Kobbie Mainoo in the summer, after the 20-year-old asked for a loan move to gain valuable minutes.
Mainoo has yet to start a game this season and is expected to push again for a loan spell in January as he attempts to fight his way back into Thomas Tuchel’s England squad ahead of the World Cup.
Brighton and Napoli are believed to be the clubs showing the strongest interest.
Speaking recently on Mainoo’s future, Amorim said: “The first thing is that the club comes first. If I can help the club and the players, I will be happy. If not, I have to think about the team.”
Nathan Ake
Once a reliable and versatile option in Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City defence, Nathan Ake has found game time hard to come by this season.
The 30-year-old attracted interest in the summer, but City were unwilling to sanction a sale. Reports now suggest the club will allow him to leave in January – provided their valuation is met.
Everton were among the clubs keen on signing the Dutch international last summer and are expected to revisit their interest. With the World Cup approaching, securing regular minutes could prove crucial for Ake as he looks to maintain his place in the Netherlands squad.
The rumour mill never stops
The coming weeks are set to deliver no shortage of rumours, twists, negotiations and late-window drama, exactly the kind of chaos the January transfer window and Transfer News Blitz were made for!
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