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This January transfer market is typically a time of significant rumour and potential big-money moves. Several high-profile footballers find themselves connected to moves out of their present teams. We examine some of the key figures who could be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player in contention, indications are a significant move is close. This 25-year-old has a contract with a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a two-week period in early January. Latest developments indicate the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

This England defender has impress for Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool falling through. With his deal due to run out in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, including Manchester City and multiple European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a January departure remains unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales winger has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started only a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the correct valuation, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal midfielder could be set for a return to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now just twenty-eight, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spain that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran German shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barcelona following new manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter departure looks highly probable. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England striker has continued scoring regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of being in the national squad. But, securing a transfer poses significant challenges. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all mentioned as admirers.

The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético. With few starting appearances in Spain this season, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been strongly linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on loan, is also a possibility, although financial demands could be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and winning player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this talented player has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Due to specific rules regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the sole viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The exciting Turkey attacker is in excellent form for Juventus this season. With his current deal nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but face a race to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. The 19-year-old is widely expected to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but could face strong competition from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at around twenty-two million pounds.