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This winter recruitment period is always a time of significant rumour and potential big-money moves. Several prominent stars are being linked with moves away from their current clubs. We examine some of the top names that are poised to be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player in contention, it appears an important move is close. This 25-year-old possesses a contract featuring a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a brief period in early January. Latest developments indicate the Premier League champions have emerged as his services. Other interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to other options, leaving clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late move.

Marc Guéhi

This England defender has excel for Palace this season a summer move to Anfield collapsing. With his contract due to expire in the summer, this represents the club's final opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. A host of top sides, such as City and multiple European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. However, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the coach's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Welsh forward has had first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a small number of league games. Reports suggest the London outfit would be open to a sale for the right price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.

R. Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be set for a comeback to the Premier League after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now just twenty-eight, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barça following new coach Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter exit seems highly probable. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a possible destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England striker has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of making the national World Cup. However, securing a deal presents major challenges. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged huge salary render any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.

The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder drew widespread interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético. Having few starts in La Liga this term, he may be keen to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are heavily connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, although wage constraints could be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this young player has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next season appears to be the sole viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing contract nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but face a race to keep one of Europe's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After impressing at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ side. The teenager is heavily tipped to make a major transfer in January. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.