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This winter recruitment period is typically a period of feverish rumour and possible big-money moves. A number of notable stars find themselves connected to moves away from their present teams. We examine some of the key figures who might be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to reach the AFCON, which has kept the forward in contention, reports suggest a major move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a £65 million buy-out clause applicable for a short window in early January. Recent reports suggest the Premier League champions have emerged as his signature. Other suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

This English centre-back has continued to impress for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his contract set to expire in the close season, January is the London club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top sides, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. Yet, a January exit is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, he has started only a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club is willing to consider a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an inquiry.

Spurs value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal midfielder could be set for a comeback to the Premier League after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, while his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he is prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça following the manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a winter exit seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This prolific England centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of being in the national squad. But, securing a transfer poses major challenges. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his reported huge salary make any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as interested parties.

The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. With few starts in La Liga this term, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, although wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the young midfielder has found it tough for game time on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club before next summer appears to be the only available solution.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish forward is in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing deal running down, many Premier League sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are desperate to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but face a race to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a major move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at approximately twenty-two million pounds.