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This January recruitment period is typically a period of significant rumour and possible major deals. Several high-profile footballers are being linked with moves away from their present clubs. This article explores some of the key figures who could be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the forward in contention, indications are a major move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal with a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a two-week period in early January. Recent developments indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

The English defender has impress for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his deal set to expire in the summer, January is the club's final opportunity to obtain a fee for their captain. A host of top sides, including Manchester City and several European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit remains unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

This Welsh forward has found first-team minutes hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Although being the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started only a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the North London outfit is open to a transfer for the right valuation, believed to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a comeback to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now just twenty-eight, while his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spain that he is prepared to accept a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This experienced Germany goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barcelona following the manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone surgery, a winter exit looks highly probable. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This prolific English striker has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading hopes of making the England World Cup. But, securing a deal presents significant hurdles. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his reported enormous weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.

The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With few starts in Spain this season, he may be eager to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on loan, remains a option, although wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the talented midfielder has found it tough for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club prior to next season seems to be the only available solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey forward is in fine form for Juventus this term. As his current contract running down, a host of English clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but face a race to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This teenager is heavily expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong competition from Real Madrid for a deal valued at around £22 million.