🔗 Share this article

The winter recruitment period is typically a period of significant speculation and possible major moves. Several high-profile stars are being connected to transfers out of their present teams. We examine some of the major names that are poised to be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward in contention, indications are an important move is imminent. The 25-year-old has a deal featuring a £65 million buy-out clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest developments suggest the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to other options, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

This English defender has continued to impress for Palace despite a previous transfer to Anfield falling through. With his contract due to expire in the close season, this represents the club's final opportunity to obtain a fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, such as City and multiple European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. However, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the coach's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Welsh winger has had starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, he has started just a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the London club is willing to consider a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

R. Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, and with his contract ending in the summer, he represents a possible bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spain that he would be prepared to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This experienced Germany goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barça under new coach Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter exit looks highly likely. Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The prolific English striker has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling chances of making the England squad. But, arranging a transfer poses significant hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in La Liga this season, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he shone on loan, remains a option, though financial demands could prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the talented midfielder has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to his parent club prior to next season appears to be the only viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkey attacker is in excellent form for Juventus this term. As his current deal running down, a host of Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

The much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following starring at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ first team. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a major move in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.