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The January recruitment period proves to be a period of significant rumour and possible big-money transfers. A number of notable stars find themselves connected to transfers away from their present teams. Here is a look at some of the major figures that could be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward in contention, indications are a major move is close. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal featuring a £65 million release clause active for a short window at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late move.

Marc Guéhi

This England centre-back has excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Anfield falling through. With his deal set to expire in the summer, January is the London club's final chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous elite sides, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter exit remains difficult, especially given the manager's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Welsh forward has found starting minutes limited at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has started just a handful of Premier League games. Reports suggest the London club is willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an interest.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal playmaker might be set for a return to the English top flight after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spain that he would be prepared to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça under the manager Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter exit seems highly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.

I. Toney

This proven England centre-forward has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of being in the England squad. But, arranging a transfer presents major hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages make any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic English midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer 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 World Cup. United are strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on loan, remains a possibility, although financial demands might prove a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this young player has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to specific rules about representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next summer appears to be the sole viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The exciting Turkish forward is in fine form for Juventus this term. With his current contract nearing its end, a host of English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a new long-term agreement but are in a race to retain one of Europe's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

This much-admired Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. The 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a major transfer in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.