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This winter recruitment period is always a time of feverish rumour and possible big-money transfers. A number of notable footballers are being connected to transfers away from their current clubs. We examine some of the top names that could be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to reach the AFCON, which has left the player in contention, reports suggest a major transfer is close. This 25-year-old possesses a contract featuring a £65 million buy-out clause applicable for a short period at the start of the month. Latest reports point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

The England defender has impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Anfield falling through. With his deal set to expire in the close season, January is the club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of elite clubs, such as Manchester City and several European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter exit remains unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the player.

B. Johnson

The Wales winger has found first-team minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, he has begun only a small number of league matches. It is understood the London outfit is open to a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an interest.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal midfielder might be set for a return to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, while his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential bargain. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to accept a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça following new manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and had an operation, a January exit looks highly likely. Villa were initially linked as a potential suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The proven England centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading hopes of being in the England squad. However, arranging a transfer presents significant challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported huge salary make any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as interested parties.

The striker helped his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

The dynamic midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético. Having few starts in Spain this season, he is eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on loan, is also a option, although wage constraints might be a problem.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented player has found it tough for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of specific rules regarding 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 highly-rated Turkish attacker is in excellent form for Juventus this term. As his existing contract running down, many English clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a race to retain one of Europe's brightest prospects.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ side. The teenager is widely expected to make a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.