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This January recruitment period is always a time of significant rumour and potential big-money transfers. Several notable stars are being linked with moves away from their current clubs. We examine some of the top names that might be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has left the player available, reports suggest a significant move is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a two-week period in early January. Latest reports indicate the Premier League champions have emerged as his signature. Other suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The English defender has continued to excel for Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his contract due to expire in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top sides, such as Manchester City and multiple European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. However, a January departure remains difficult, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.

B. Johnson

This Wales winger has had starting minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has begun just a small number of league games. It is understood the North London outfit is open to a transfer for the right valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

R. Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be set for a return to the English top flight after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now just twenty-eight, while his agreement expiring in the summer, he represents a possible bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced Germany goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barça under new manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January exit looks increasingly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The prolific English centre-forward has kept finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of making the England World Cup. However, arranging a transfer poses significant challenges. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his reported enormous salary make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as admirers.

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

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic midfielder attracted considerable interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With limited starting appearances in La Liga this season, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United have been heavily linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, though wage constraints might be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the only available solution.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish attacker is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his current deal running down, many English clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – 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 most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This teenager is widely expected to make a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong competition from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at around £22 million.