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The winter recruitment period is typically a time of intense rumour and possible major moves. Several high-profile stars are being connected to moves away from their current clubs. We examine a selection of the key names that could be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Despite Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the forward available, indications are a significant move is close. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a substantial release clause applicable for a short period in early January. Recent reports suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to alternative options, leaving teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late move.

Marc Guéhi

The England defender has continued to impress for Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. As his contract due to run out in the summer, January is the club's last chance to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, including City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a January departure remains difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales forward has found starting minutes limited at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the North London club is open to a sale for the right price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an interest.

Spurs value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal midfielder could be poised for a return to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, and with his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he is a possible bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he would be willing to accept a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

This experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona following new coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January exit looks increasingly likely. Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

This prolific England centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling chances of being in the national World Cup. But, arranging a transfer poses significant hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge salary render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.

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

C. Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are heavily linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, though financial demands could prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this young midfielder has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a season, a return to his parent club before next summer seems to be the only viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish attacker is in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. With his current deal running down, many Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This teenager is heavily tipped to make a major move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.