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This winter transfer market proves to be a period of significant rumour and potential major transfers. Several high-profile footballers find themselves linked with transfers out of their current teams. This article explores a selection of the major names who could be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward in contention, indications are an important move is close. 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 Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have moved on to alternative targets, leaving clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to excel for Palace despite a summer move to Anfield falling through. With his deal due to expire in the close season, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, including Manchester City and multiple European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit is considered difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

B. Johnson

This Wales winger has had first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started only a handful of league games. Reports suggest the North London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the Premier League after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is prepared to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barcelona under new manager Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January departure looks increasingly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.

I. Toney

This proven English centre-forward has continued finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could boost his fading hopes of making the England World Cup. However, arranging a deal poses significant hurdles. His current club are reluctant to sell him, and his alleged huge salary render any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as admirers.

The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

This energetic midfielder drew widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With few starting appearances in La Liga this season, he may be eager to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are strongly connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on loan, is also a option, though wage demands might be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the talented player has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Because of specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next summer appears to be the only viable solution.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for Juventus this term. As his current contract nearing its end, many English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to keep one of the continent's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

This much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. This teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.