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This January recruitment period is typically a period of intense rumour and potential big-money moves. A number of notable stars are being linked with transfers out of their present teams. This article explores some of the top figures who could be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward in contention, reports suggest a significant move is imminent. The 25-year-old has a contract featuring a substantial buy-out clause active for a two-week window in early January. Latest developments point to the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to other targets, potentially opening the door for teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

This English centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace despite a previous move to Anfield collapsing. With his contract due to expire in the close season, this represents the club's final chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's reliance on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh forward has had first-team minutes hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although being the club's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started only a handful of league matches. It is understood the North London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese playmaker might be poised for a return to the English top flight following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça under new coach Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January departure seems increasingly probable. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England centre-forward has kept scoring regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling chances of making the England World Cup. However, arranging a deal poses significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as admirers.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

Conor Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder attracted considerable interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starting appearances in La Liga this term, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he shone on loan, remains a option, although wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the young player has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the loan move will not become permanent. Because of specific rules regarding playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer seems to be the only viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkey forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, a host of Premier League sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are eager to tie down the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.

K. Smit

This much-admired Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a major move this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at around twenty-two million pounds.