🔗 Share this article

The winter recruitment period is typically a time of feverish speculation and possible major deals. Several high-profile stars are being connected to moves out of their present teams. Here is a look at a selection of the top names that might be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the forward available, indications are an important move is close. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a sizeable buy-out clause active for a short period in early January. Latest reports point to the Premier League champions have emerged as his signature. Former interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to other options, leaving teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. With his contract set to run out in the summer, this represents the London club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite sides, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales winger has had first-team minutes hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, he has begun just a handful of league matches. It is understood the North London club would be open to a sale for the right price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an inquiry.

Spurs value the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now just 28, while his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran Germany goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barça under new manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January exit seems highly probable. Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that move currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

This proven English striker has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his dwindling hopes of being in the national World Cup. But, arranging a deal presents significant challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as interested parties.

The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United have been strongly connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, though financial constraints might prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although starring and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the only available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkish forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current contract running down, many English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but face a race to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ side. This teenager is heavily tipped to complete a big-money move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at approximately £22 million.