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This winter transfer window is typically a period of intense rumour and possible major deals. Numerous notable footballers find themselves connected to transfers out of their current clubs. We examine a selection of the major names that might be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player available, reports suggest a significant transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a deal featuring a £65 million release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Recent developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, leaving clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

This England defender has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. With his deal set to expire in the close season, this represents the club's final opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, including Manchester City and several continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter departure remains difficult, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Welsh winger has found starting minutes hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Although being the side's leading goalscorer last season, he has begun only a small number of Premier League games. Reports suggest the North London club is open to a transfer for the right price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a return to the English top flight after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now just 28, and with his contract ending in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran German shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following the manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a winter departure seems highly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible suitor, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The proven English striker has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling chances of being in the England World Cup. But, securing a deal presents significant hurdles. 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.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder attracted considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be keen to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, remains a possibility, although financial demands might prove a stumbling block.

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 game time on loan at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next summer appears to be the sole available solution.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkey attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his current contract running down, a host of Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a race to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ side. The teenager is heavily expected to complete a major transfer in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but could face stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.