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This winter transfer market is typically a period of intense rumour and potential major deals. A number of notable footballers find themselves linked with moves away from their current clubs. We examine some of the top names who could be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player available, indications are an important move is close. This 25-year-old has a contract with a £65 million buy-out clause active for a brief period at the start of the month. Latest reports point to Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late move.

M. Guéhi

The England defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. With his contract set to expire in the close season, January is the London club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous elite sides, including City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January exit is considered difficult, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

This Welsh winger has found first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, he has begun just a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the London club is willing to consider a transfer for the right price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal midfielder might be set for a return to the Premier League after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now just 28, while his contract ending in the summer, he represents a potential bargain. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barça following the manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a January exit looks increasingly probable. Villa were once mentioned as a potential destination, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.

I. Toney

This prolific England centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling chances of making the England squad. However, securing a deal presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported huge salary make any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he may be eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he shone on loan, is also a possibility, though wage demands might prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the young player has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the sole viable solution.

K. Yildiz

This exciting Turkish attacker has been in fine form for Juventus this season. With his existing contract running down, many English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

This much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. This teenager is widely tipped to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.