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This January recruitment period is typically a period of feverish speculation and potential major deals. Numerous notable footballers are being linked with moves away from their current clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the key names that might be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player available, indications are a major transfer is close. The 25-year-old has a contract with a substantial release clause active for a short period in early January. Recent developments suggest the Premier League champions have emerged as his signature. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

Marc Guéhi

The England defender has excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool falling through. With his contract due to expire in the summer, this represents the London club's last chance to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous elite sides, such as City and several European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter departure remains difficult, particularly given the manager's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales forward has found first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Despite being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has started just a small number of Premier League games. It is understood the London club would be open to a transfer for the correct valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an interest.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be set for a return to the English top flight after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still just twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a possible bargain. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran German shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona under the coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter departure seems increasingly likely. Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This proven England centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of making the national squad. However, arranging a deal poses significant challenges. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. With limited starts in Spain this season, he may be eager to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United are heavily connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, is also a option, although wage demands could be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although excelling and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented midfielder has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about playing for two clubs in a season, a return to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the only available solution.

Kenan Yildiz

The exciting Turkish forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. As his existing contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a race to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. The teenager is widely tipped to complete a major transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.