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The winter recruitment period is always a period of significant rumour and potential major deals. Several high-profile footballers are being connected to moves away from their current clubs. We examine a selection of the top figures who are poised to be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward in contention, it appears a significant move is close. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal with a substantial release clause active for a two-week period in early January. Recent developments suggest the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Former suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to impress for Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. With his contract set to run out in the summer, this represents the club's final chance to obtain a fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, including City and multiple European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit remains difficult, particularly given the coach's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Welsh winger has had starting opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a small number of league games. It is understood the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an interest.

Spurs value Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

R. Neves

This Portuguese midfielder might be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now just 28, while his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona following the coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January exit seems increasingly probable. Villa were once mentioned as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England striker has continued scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of making the England World Cup. But, arranging a transfer poses major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary make any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all mentioned as admirers.

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

C. Gallagher

This dynamic English midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in Spain this season, he is eager to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been strongly connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, although wage constraints could be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although excelling and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to his parent club prior to next summer seems to be the only viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

The exciting Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. As his existing contract running down, a host of English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising prospects.

K. Smit

The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a major move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.