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The January transfer window is always a period of feverish speculation and potential major transfers. Several prominent footballers find themselves linked with moves out of their present clubs. We examine a selection of the major figures who could be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to reach the AFCON, which has left the forward in contention, reports suggest a significant transfer is close. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal featuring a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a two-week window in early January. Recent reports suggest the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Other suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have turned their attention to other options, leaving clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

This England centre-back has continued to excel for Palace this season a summer transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his deal due to run out in the summer, January is the London club's final chance to secure a fee for their captain. A host of elite sides, including City and several continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January exit is considered difficult, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh winger has had first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun only a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, believed to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.

Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal playmaker might be set for a return to the Premier League after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he represents a possible bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be prepared to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona under the coach Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a winter departure seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a potential destination, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England striker has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of being in the national World Cup. But, arranging a transfer poses major hurdles. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged enormous salary render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the summer but remained at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is eager to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United are strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he shone on a temporary deal, remains a option, although financial demands could prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this talented player has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't become permanent. Because of specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club before next season appears to be the sole viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The exciting Turkish forward is in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. As his current contract nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to keep one of Europe's brightest young talents.

K. Smit

The much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is widely expected to complete a major move in January. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal valued at around twenty-two million pounds.