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This winter recruitment period is always a time of feverish rumour and possible major transfers. A number of high-profile stars are being linked with moves away from their current clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the key figures that could be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to reach the AFCON, this has left the player available, indications are a major move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a substantial release clause applicable for a brief window in early January. Recent reports indicate the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to other targets, leaving teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to impress for Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. As his deal set to expire in the close season, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, including City and several European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. However, a January departure remains difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the player.

B. Johnson

The Welsh forward has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun just a handful of league games. Reports suggest the North London club would be open to a transfer for the right price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an inquiry.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

R. Neves

The Portugal playmaker might be poised for a return to the Premier League after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, and with his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he is willing to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under the manager Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January exit looks highly likely. Aston Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This prolific English centre-forward has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of being in the national World Cup. But, securing a deal poses major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported huge salary make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder attracted widespread attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he is eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are strongly linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, though financial constraints might prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young midfielder has struggled for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a season, a move back to Liverpool prior to next summer seems to be the sole available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey attacker is in fine form for Juventus this season. With his current deal nearing its end, a host of English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. The teenager is widely tipped to complete a big-money move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.