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The January recruitment period is always a period of significant rumour and potential big-money moves. Numerous prominent stars find themselves connected to transfers out of their current teams. We examine some of the major names who are poised to be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Despite Ghana's failure to reach the AFCON, this has kept the forward in contention, it appears a major move is close. The 25-year-old possesses a contract featuring a £65 million release clause active for a two-week window in early January. Recent reports indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Former interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have turned their attention to other options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

The England centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Liverpool collapsing. As his deal set to expire in the close season, this represents the London club's last opportunity to obtain a fee for their skipper. Numerous elite sides, such as Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit is considered difficult, particularly given the coach's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales winger has found first-team minutes hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Despite finishing as the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun just a handful of league games. It is understood the North London club would be open to a transfer for the right valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an inquiry.

Spurs value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal midfielder could be set for a return to the Premier League following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, and with his contract ending in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the player. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spain that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona under new coach Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone surgery, a January departure seems increasingly likely. Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This prolific English centre-forward has kept scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of making the England World Cup. But, arranging a transfer poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary render any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the summer but remained at Atlético. With limited starts in La Liga this term, he may be eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although wage demands might prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Because of specific rules regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the sole viable solution.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his current contract nearing its end, many English sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term agreement but face a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. The teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.