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The winter recruitment period is always a time of significant rumour and possible big-money moves. A number of prominent footballers find themselves connected to moves out of their current clubs. We examine a selection of the key names that could be changing clubs in January.

A. Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward in contention, reports suggest a significant move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a substantial release clause applicable for a short window in early January. Latest reports suggest Manchester City have emerged as his services. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a late move.

Marc Guéhi

This England centre-back has excel for Palace despite a previous move to Liverpool collapsing. As his deal due to run out in the summer, January is the club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. However, a winter departure is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Welsh winger has had starting minutes limited at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started just a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the London club would be willing to consider a transfer for the right price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an inquiry.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still just twenty-eight, while his contract ending in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced Germany goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new manager Flick. After lost his place and had surgery, a January exit looks highly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move currently seems off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the keeper.

I. Toney

The proven England centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of making the England World Cup. However, securing a deal presents major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his alleged huge salary make any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder attracted considerable attention in the summer but remained at Atlético. Having limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, is also a option, though wage demands could be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the young midfielder has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move will not become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a season, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer appears to be the sole viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing contract nearing its end, many Premier League sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term agreement but are in a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising prospects.

K. Smit

This much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ first team. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a major transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing valued at approximately twenty-two million pounds.