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This winter recruitment period proves to be a time of feverish speculation and possible major deals. A number of high-profile players find themselves connected to transfers away from their current clubs. We examine a selection of the major figures that might be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward in contention, reports suggest an important move is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract featuring a substantial release clause active for a short period at the start of the month. Latest developments suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Other suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to other options, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The English defender has impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Liverpool falling through. With his deal set to expire in the close season, January is the club's final chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top sides, including City and multiple European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. However, a winter departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales winger has had first-team opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, he has begun only a handful of Premier League games. It is understood the North London outfit is willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an inquiry.

Spurs value the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

R. Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a return to the Premier League following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barcelona following new coach Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January exit seems highly likely. Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The proven England striker has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of making the national squad. However, securing a deal presents major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as interested parties.

The striker helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in La Liga this season, he is eager to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, although financial demands might be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although excelling and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the talented player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool before next season appears to be the only viable solution.

K. Yildiz

This exciting Turkish attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a race to keep one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After impressing at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ first team. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.