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This winter recruitment period is typically a period of intense rumour and possible big-money deals. A number of prominent footballers are being linked with transfers out of their current clubs. We examine some of the major figures who could be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the forward in contention, indications are a major transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract featuring a sizeable release clause applicable for a two-week window at the start of the month. Recent developments suggest the Premier League champions have emerged as his services. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

Marc Guéhi

The England defender has impress for Palace this season a previous transfer to Anfield collapsing. With his contract due to expire in the summer, January is the London club's last opportunity to obtain a fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, including City and several European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter exit remains difficult, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh winger has had first-team minutes limited at Spurs this term. Although being the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has started just a small number of league games. Reports suggest the North London club is open to a sale for the correct valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an interest.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the Premier League following a period in Saudi Arabia. Still just 28, while his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he is prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barça under the manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone surgery, a winter exit seems increasingly probable. Villa were once mentioned as a potential destination, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This proven England striker has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might boost his dwindling hopes of making the England squad. However, arranging a deal poses major challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported enormous weekly wages make any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. Having limited starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is eager to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, remains a option, although financial demands could prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the young player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next summer appears to be the only viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The exciting Turkey forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. As his existing contract nearing its end, many English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a race to retain one of Europe's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels 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 expected to complete a major transfer in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal priced at approximately twenty-two million pounds.