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This January recruitment period is typically a period of significant speculation and possible major deals. Several prominent players are being connected to moves out of their current clubs. This article explores some of the top names that are poised to be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player available, it appears an important transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal featuring a £65 million release clause applicable for a two-week window in early January. Latest developments point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Other suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to other options, potentially opening the door for teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

Marc Guéhi

The England defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. As his deal due to expire in the summer, this represents the club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous elite sides, such as Manchester City and several European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. However, a winter exit is considered unlikely, especially given the manager's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh forward has found first-team minutes limited at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has begun only a small number of league games. Reports suggest the London club would be open to a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an inquiry.

Spurs value Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a return to the English top flight after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still just twenty-eight, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça following new manager Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had surgery, a January departure looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The proven England striker has kept finding the net regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of making the national World Cup. But, arranging a transfer poses major challenges. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all mentioned as admirers.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

This energetic midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in Spain this term, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on loan, is also a possibility, although financial constraints might be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this young player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a move back to his parent club before next summer appears to be the only viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkey attacker is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. As his current deal running down, many English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are eager to tie down the youngster to a new long-term agreement but face a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This much-admired Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ first team. The teenager is heavily tipped to make a major transfer in January. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.