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This winter recruitment period proves to be a period of significant rumour and possible big-money moves. Numerous notable players are being linked with moves away from their current teams. This article explores a selection of the major figures that could be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player available, it appears a significant move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a £65 million release clause applicable for a two-week window at the start of the month. Latest reports indicate the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to alternative targets, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

This English defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. As his contract set to expire in the summer, this represents the London club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter departure remains difficult, especially given the manager's reliance on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales winger has had starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this campaign. Despite finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a handful of league games. It is understood the North London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at around £40m.

R. Neves

The Portugal midfielder might be poised for a return to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now just 28, while his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça under the coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January departure seems increasingly probable. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that move currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of being in the national World Cup. However, arranging a transfer presents significant hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his reported enormous weekly wages make any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

The energetic midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With few starts in Spain this term, he is eager to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on loan, is also a possibility, though financial demands could prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite excelling and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the talented midfielder has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding representing two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the only available outcome.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his current contract running down, a host of Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a race to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to make a major transfer in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but could face strong competition from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at around twenty-two million pounds.