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The winter recruitment period is always a period of significant rumour and potential major moves. Several prominent players find themselves connected to moves out of their current teams. We examine a selection of the key names that are poised to be changing clubs in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward in contention, reports suggest a significant transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal featuring a substantial release clause active for a brief period in early January. Recent developments suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has continued to impress for Palace this season a summer transfer to Liverpool falling through. As his deal due to expire in the close season, this represents the London club's final chance to obtain a fee for their skipper. A host of top clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. However, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the coach's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Welsh winger has had starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this campaign. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started only a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the London outfit is willing to consider a sale for the right price, believed to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an interest.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a return to the Premier League following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now just 28, while his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça under the manager Flick. After lost his place and had surgery, a winter departure looks increasingly likely. Aston 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 expressing interest in the keeper.

I. Toney

This proven England striker has kept scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his fading hopes of being in the England squad. However, arranging a deal poses significant hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his alleged enormous salary render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. With few starting appearances in Spain this term, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been strongly linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on loan, remains a option, although wage demands could prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the talented player has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to his parent club prior to next season appears to be the only viable solution.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for Juventus this season. With his existing contract running down, many Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but face a race to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is widely expected to make a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal priced at approximately twenty-two million pounds.