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This winter recruitment period proves to be a time of significant rumour and possible major moves. Numerous high-profile stars are being connected to moves away from their present clubs. We examine a selection of the top names that could be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward in contention, it appears a significant transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract featuring a substantial buy-out clause active for a two-week window in early January. Recent reports suggest Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late move.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace this season a previous move to Anfield falling through. With his contract set to run out in the close season, this represents the club's last opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite sides, such as Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a January exit remains unlikely, particularly given the manager's reliance on the player.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales forward has found starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this campaign. Despite being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has started only a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club would be open to a transfer for the correct price, thought 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.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

R. Neves

The Portugal midfielder might be poised for a return to the English top flight following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still just twenty-eight, and with his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a possible bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona following new manager Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter departure seems increasingly probable. Aston Villa were once linked as a potential destination, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.

I. Toney

The proven England striker has continued finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of being in the England squad. But, arranging a transfer poses major challenges. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his reported enormous salary make any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

This energetic midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. Having few starts in Spain this season, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on loan, is also a possibility, although wage demands might prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented player has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer appears to be the only viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, many English sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

This much-admired Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is heavily tipped to make a major move in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at around twenty-two million pounds.