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The January recruitment period is always a time of intense speculation and potential major moves. A number of notable footballers find themselves connected to transfers away from their present teams. This article explores a selection of the major figures who could be changing clubs in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player available, it appears a significant move is close. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a sizeable buy-out clause active for a short period at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

The England defender has impress for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the club's final opportunity to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter exit remains unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

This Wales forward has had starting minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Despite being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a small number of league games. It is understood the North London club would be open to a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an inquiry.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be set for a return to the Premier League after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now only 28, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran German shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona following the manager Flick. After lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter departure seems increasingly probable. Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This proven England striker has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of making the national World Cup. But, arranging a transfer poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages make any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.

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

Conor Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he shone on loan, remains a possibility, although wage constraints could be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this young player has found it tough for game time on loan at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next summer appears to be the only available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for Juventus this season. As his existing deal running down, many Premier League clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but face a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

This much-admired Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. The 19-year-old is widely expected to complete a major move this month. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at approximately twenty-two million pounds.