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The January recruitment period is typically a time of intense speculation and possible big-money deals. Numerous high-profile stars find themselves connected to moves away from their current teams. Here is a look at a selection of the key names that are poised to be changing clubs in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the forward available, it appears an important transfer is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal featuring a substantial release clause applicable for a short period at the start of the month. Latest reports point to Manchester City have emerged as his services. Other interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

The England centre-back has continued to excel for Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. With his contract due to run out in the summer, this represents the London club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top sides, including City and several European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure is considered unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Wales forward has had starting minutes limited at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has started just a small number of Premier League matches. It is understood the North London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an interest.

Spurs value the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

R. Neves

The Portugal playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just twenty-eight, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential bargain. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he would be willing to accept a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran German goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone surgery, a winter departure looks highly probable. Villa were once linked as a possible destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The prolific English centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of making the England World Cup. But, securing a transfer presents major challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético. With limited starts in Spain this season, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a option, though financial constraints could be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, this talented player has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next summer seems to be the sole viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkey forward has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. With his current contract running down, many Premier League sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to make a major move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.