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This winter recruitment period is always a period of intense speculation and potential big-money transfers. A number of notable footballers are being linked with moves away from their current teams. This article explores a selection of the top figures that might be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player in contention, indications are a significant transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a substantial release clause applicable for a two-week window in early January. Recent reports point to Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Former interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to other options, leaving teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

This English defender has continued to impress for Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. As his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the London club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, including City and multiple European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure remains unlikely, especially given the manager's reliance on the player.

B. Johnson

This Wales winger has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has started only a small number of Premier League matches. It is understood the London club is open to a transfer for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be set for a return to the Premier League following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now just 28, while his agreement expiring in the summer, he represents a potential opportunity. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he is prepared to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça under new coach Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January departure seems increasingly probable. Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that move currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The prolific English striker has continued finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of making the England squad. But, securing a deal poses major hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous weekly wages make any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.

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

C. Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starting appearances in La Liga this season, he is keen to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, is also a option, although financial demands could prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this talented player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not become permanent. Because of specific rules regarding playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to his parent club prior to next season seems to be the only viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkey attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current deal nearing its end, many Premier League sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but face a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This teenager is widely expected to complete a major move this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing priced at around twenty-two million pounds.