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The winter recruitment period is typically a period of intense speculation and potential major transfers. A number of notable footballers are being linked with moves away from their current clubs. We examine some of the major names that are poised to be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's failure to reach the AFCON, which has left the player available, indications are an important transfer is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a contract with a sizeable release clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Latest developments point to Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have turned their attention to other options, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.

Marc Guéhi

The English defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace this season a previous transfer to Anfield collapsing. With his deal set to expire in the close season, January is the club's last opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. However, a winter exit is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the player.

Brennan Johnson

This Welsh forward has found starting minutes limited at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a small number of Premier League matches. It is understood the London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, believed 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 showing an interest.

Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal playmaker could be set for a comeback to the Premier League after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only twenty-eight, while his contract ending in the summer, he represents a potential bargain. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The experienced German shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona under the manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone surgery, a January exit seems highly probable. Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The proven English striker has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might boost his dwindling chances of making the England squad. However, securing a deal poses significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder drew widespread interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. Having few starts in Spain this term, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United are strongly linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a option, although financial demands could prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented player has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules about playing for two clubs in a season, a return to his parent club 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 term. With his current deal running down, many Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but face a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ first team. The teenager is widely tipped to complete a major move this month. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal priced at around £22 million.