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The January recruitment period proves to be a time of intense rumour and possible big-money deals. Several high-profile players find themselves linked with transfers away from their present clubs. This article explores a selection of the key names that could be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player available, indications are a significant transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a £65 million buy-out clause active for a brief 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 moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

This English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Anfield falling through. As his deal set to expire in the close season, this represents the club's final opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, including City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter departure remains unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has found starting opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has begun just a handful of Premier League games. Reports suggest the London club would be open to a sale for the correct valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an interest.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the Premier League following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his contract ending in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spain that he would be willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça under the manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and had an operation, a winter exit seems highly likely. Aston Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This prolific England centre-forward has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could boost his dwindling chances of making the England squad. However, securing a deal presents major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. With few starts in Spain this term, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, although wage demands could be a problem.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the young midfielder has found it tough for game time on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Because of specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the sole viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey attacker is in excellent form for Juventus this season. As his current deal nearing its end, many English clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to keep one of the continent's brightest young talents.

K. Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but could face strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.