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This January recruitment period is always a period of significant rumour and potential major deals. A number of notable footballers are being connected to moves out of their current clubs. We examine some of the key figures who are poised to be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the forward in contention, indications are an important transfer is close. The 25-year-old possesses a deal featuring a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest the Premier League champions have emerged as his signature. Other interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace this season a previous transfer to Anfield falling through. As his contract due to run out in the close season, this represents the London club's final chance to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, including Manchester City and multiple European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh forward has had starting minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Despite being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has begun just a small number of league games. Reports suggest the London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, believed to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an inquiry.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

R. Neves

The Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now just twenty-eight, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a potential bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spain that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barcelona under the coach Flick. Having lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter exit seems highly probable. Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The proven English centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of being in the national squad. However, securing a transfer presents major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge salary make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder drew widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. Having limited starts in Spain this term, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a option, although financial demands could prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for game time on loan at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club before next summer appears to be the sole viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward is in fine form for Juventus this season. With his existing contract nearing its end, many English clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but face a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a major transfer in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.