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The winter recruitment period is always a time of intense rumour and potential major deals. Several high-profile footballers find themselves linked with transfers out of their current clubs. This article explores some of the key figures that might be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Despite Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has kept the forward available, indications are a significant move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a deal featuring a £65 million buy-out clause applicable for a short period in early January. Recent developments suggest the Premier League champions have emerged as his services. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

The English defender has excel for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool collapsing. With his contract set to run out in the close season, this represents the club's final chance to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. However, a January exit is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales winger has had starting minutes limited at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, he has begun just a handful of Premier League games. Reports suggest the London club is open to a transfer for the correct price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an inquiry.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.

R. Neves

The Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a return to the English top flight after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still only 28, while his contract expiring in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he would be prepared to take a pay cut for a switch to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça following the coach Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and had an operation, a January exit looks increasingly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a potential destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.

I. Toney

The prolific England centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of making the England squad. But, arranging a transfer poses significant challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported huge salary render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted considerable interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. Having limited starts in Spain this term, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United are strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on loan, remains a option, though wage constraints might prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this talented player has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Because of specific rules regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next summer appears to be the only viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. As his existing deal nearing its end, a host of English clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to make a big-money move this month. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.