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This January recruitment period is typically a time of feverish rumour and potential big-money transfers. Several notable footballers are being connected to moves away from their present clubs. We examine a selection of the key figures who are poised to be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player available, indications are a significant transfer is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a £65 million release clause applicable for a brief period in early January. Latest developments point to Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Other interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative options, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute move.

Marc Guéhi

This English defender has impress for Palace despite a summer move to Anfield falling through. As his deal due to run out in the close season, this represents the London club's last opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of top sides, such as City and several European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a January exit is considered unlikely, especially given the manager's dependence on the player.

B. Johnson

The Welsh forward has found starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has begun just a handful of Premier League games. It is understood the North London club is willing to consider a transfer for the correct price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

R. Neves

The Portugal midfielder could be poised for a comeback to the Premier League after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now just twenty-eight, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he represents a potential bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barça following the manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and had an operation, a winter exit looks highly probable. Aston Villa were once linked as a potential suitor, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The prolific English striker has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of being in the England World Cup. However, arranging a deal poses major challenges. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his reported huge weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as admirers.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This energetic midfielder drew widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be eager to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are heavily linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a option, although financial constraints might be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the young midfielder has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the only viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing contract nearing its end, a host of English clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to keep one of the continent's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

This much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. This teenager is widely expected to complete a major transfer this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.