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This January recruitment period is always a time of feverish speculation and possible big-money moves. A number of high-profile stars find themselves linked with moves away from their present teams. We examine a selection of the major figures who might be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player available, it appears a significant move is imminent. The 25-year-old possesses a deal with a sizeable release clause active for a short window at the start of the month. Latest reports indicate the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to other targets, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The England defender has impress for Palace despite a previous move to Anfield collapsing. As his deal set to run out in the close season, January is the club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, such as City and several European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter exit remains unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh forward has had starting opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has begun just a small number of Premier League matches. It is understood the North London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a return to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he represents a potential opportunity. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following the coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a January departure looks highly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England striker has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of making the national World Cup. However, securing a transfer presents significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous weekly wages render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.

The striker was instrumental as his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. With few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on loan, remains a option, though financial constraints could prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, the talented midfielder has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move will not become permanent. Because of specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next summer appears to be the sole viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

The exciting Turkey forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing contract running down, many Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are desperate to secure the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but face a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

This much-admired Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. This teenager is heavily expected to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but could face stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.