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The winter recruitment period proves to be a period of significant speculation and potential major deals. A number of prominent stars are being linked with moves out of their present teams. We examine a selection of the key figures who are poised to be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the player in contention, reports suggest an important move is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal with a sizeable release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent reports indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The England defender has excel for Palace despite a previous move to Anfield falling through. With his contract due to expire in the close season, January is the club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of top sides, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. However, a January departure remains difficult, especially given the manager's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh forward has found first-team minutes limited at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun only a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London outfit is willing to consider a transfer for the right valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an interest.

Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a return to the English top flight after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, and with his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he is a potential bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça following the manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter exit looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a potential suitor, but that move currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The proven English centre-forward has kept finding the net regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of making the national squad. But, securing a deal presents significant hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.

The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The dynamic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. Having few starts in Spain this season, he may be eager to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. United are strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, is also a option, though financial constraints might prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Although excelling and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this young player has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move will not become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the sole viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish forward is in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. With his current contract nearing its end, many Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are eager to tie down the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising prospects.

K. Smit

The much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but could face strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing priced at approximately twenty-two million pounds.