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This winter recruitment period proves to be a period of intense rumour and possible big-money moves. A number of notable footballers are being connected to transfers away from their current clubs. This article explores a selection of the major names who are poised to be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the forward in contention, indications are a major transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Recent reports suggest the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other options, leaving clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

The England defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool falling through. As his contract set to expire in the close season, January is the club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, including Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. However, a winter exit remains difficult, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a handful of league matches. It is understood the North London club is open to a transfer for the right price, believed to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an interest.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at around £40m.

R. Neves

The Portuguese playmaker could be set for a comeback to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barça following new manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and had an operation, a January exit looks highly likely. Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The proven England centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of being in the England World Cup. But, arranging a transfer presents significant challenges. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his reported enormous salary make any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.

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

Conor Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he shone on loan, is also a option, although wage constraints might be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented midfielder has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a campaign, a move back to his parent club prior to next season seems to be the sole available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkey forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. As his existing contract running down, many Premier League sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a race to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a major transfer in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at around twenty-two million pounds.