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The January transfer market proves to be a time of significant speculation and possible big-money deals. Several high-profile footballers find themselves linked with moves away from their current clubs. We examine some of the key figures that could be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward available, it appears an important move is imminent. This 25-year-old has a deal featuring a sizeable buy-out clause active for a short period at the start of the month. Recent developments indicate the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Other suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.

Marc Guéhi

The England defender has continued to excel for Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. As his deal due to expire in the summer, this represents the club's final chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, including City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure remains unlikely, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales forward has had first-team minutes hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has begun just a small number of league games. It is understood the North London club is open to a sale for the correct valuation, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an inquiry.

Spurs value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a return to the Premier League following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following the coach Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a winter departure looks increasingly probable. Villa were once mentioned as a potential destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing curiosity in the keeper.

I. Toney

The proven England striker has continued scoring regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of being in the England squad. However, securing a transfer presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in La Liga this term, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on loan, is also a possibility, although wage demands might prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a season, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer seems to be the sole available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkey forward is in fine form for Juventus this season. As his existing contract running down, many English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a new long-term contract but face a race to keep one of Europe's brightest young talents.

K. Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is widely expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.