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The January recruitment period is typically a period of significant rumour and possible major deals. Several high-profile players find themselves connected to transfers out of their current teams. We examine some of the key names who are poised to be changing clubs in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the player available, reports suggest a major move is imminent. The 25-year-old has a contract featuring a sizeable release clause applicable for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent reports suggest the Premier League champions have emerged as his services. Other suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to other targets, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

This English defender has excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Liverpool collapsing. With his contract due to expire in the summer, this represents the London club's last chance to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. However, a winter exit remains difficult, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.

B. Johnson

The Welsh forward has had first-team minutes limited at Spurs this campaign. Although being the side's leading goalscorer last season, he has started only a small number of Premier League games. Reports suggest the London club is open to a transfer for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.

Spurs value the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

R. Neves

The Portuguese midfielder could be set for a comeback to the Premier League after a period in Saudi Arabia. Still just 28, while his contract ending in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona under the coach Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter exit seems highly probable. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England striker has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his fading hopes of being in the national World Cup. However, arranging a transfer presents major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his alleged enormous salary make any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.

The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. With limited starts in Spain this term, he may be keen to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, though financial demands might prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules about representing two clubs in a season, a return to his parent club before next summer seems to be the only viable solution.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey forward is in excellent form for Juventus this season. As his existing contract running down, a host of English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy agreement but are in a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. This 19-year-old is widely expected to make a major move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing priced at approximately twenty-two million pounds.