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The January transfer market proves to be a time of feverish speculation and possible major deals. A number of high-profile footballers find themselves linked with moves out of their current teams. This article explores a selection of the top figures that could be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the forward available, it appears a major move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a substantial release clause applicable for a brief period at the start of the month. Recent developments suggest the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

The England defender has excel for Palace despite a summer transfer to Liverpool collapsing. As his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the club's final opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, including Manchester City and multiple European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. However, a winter departure is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

This Welsh winger has had first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the side's top scorer last season, he has started just a handful of league games. It is understood the North London outfit is open to a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.

Spurs value the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the Premier League after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a possible bargain. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the player. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spain that he is willing to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran Germany goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a winter departure looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The proven England striker has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of making the national squad. However, arranging a transfer poses major challenges. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary render any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as interested parties.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starting appearances in La Liga this season, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been heavily connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he shone on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although wage constraints might be a problem.

H. Elliott

Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the loan move will not become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a season, a return to his parent club before next summer seems to be the sole viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for Juventus this term. With his current deal running down, many English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a race to retain one of the continent's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

The much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar 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 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a major move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.