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This winter recruitment period is typically a period of intense rumour and potential major deals. Several high-profile footballers are being linked with moves out of their current clubs. Here is a look at some of the key figures who might be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward available, reports suggest a significant transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal featuring a substantial release clause active for a short period in early January. Recent developments indicate the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to alternative options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

This England centre-back has continued to impress for Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. As his contract set to expire in the close season, January is the club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite clubs, including Manchester City and several continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January departure is considered difficult, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has had first-team opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun just a handful of league matches. It is understood the London club is open to a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an inquiry.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

R. Neves

This Portugal midfielder could be set for a return to the English top flight after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still just twenty-eight, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spain that he is prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barça following new manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter exit looks highly probable. Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.

I. Toney

The proven English striker has kept scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of being in the national World Cup. However, securing a transfer presents major hurdles. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his reported enormous weekly wages make any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all mentioned as interested parties.

The striker helped his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in Spain this season, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United are heavily linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, although financial constraints might be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this young player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next season seems to be the sole viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

This exciting Turkey forward is in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. As his current deal running down, many Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but are in a race to retain one of Europe's most promising prospects.

K. Smit

The much-admired Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. The 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a major transfer in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.