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The January recruitment period is typically a period of feverish speculation and potential major moves. Several notable footballers are being connected to transfers out of their present clubs. This article explores some of the key figures who are poised to be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the player in contention, it appears a significant transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract featuring a sizeable release clause applicable for a short window in early January. Latest developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late bid.

M. Guéhi

This English defender has impress for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Anfield falling through. As his deal set to run out in the summer, this represents the London club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, including City and several European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit remains difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh winger has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Despite being the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the London outfit is open to a sale for the right price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an interest.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal playmaker could be set for a return to the Premier League after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now only 28, while his agreement ending in the summer, he represents a potential opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spain that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following the coach Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter departure seems highly probable. Villa were once linked as a possible destination, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This proven England striker has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling chances of making the England World Cup. However, securing a deal presents major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his reported enormous weekly wages render any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, although financial demands could be a problem.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the young midfielder has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't become permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next season seems to be the only available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkish forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. With his current deal nearing its end, many English clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. The teenager is widely tipped to complete a major transfer this month. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.