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The January recruitment period proves to be a period of intense speculation and possible major transfers. A number of notable players find themselves connected to transfers out of their current teams. This article explores a selection of the key names that are poised to be changing clubs in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the AFCON, which has left the player available, indications are an important transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a substantial release clause active for a brief period at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to other targets, leaving teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

This England defender has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a previous transfer to Anfield collapsing. With his contract due to expire in the summer, January is the London club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a January departure is considered difficult, especially given the coach's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales winger has had starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Despite being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has started only a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the North London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the correct price, thought 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 also credited with an interest.

Spurs value Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

R. Neves

The Portuguese midfielder could be set for a return to the Premier League after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now just 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he is willing to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça under the manager Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter exit seems highly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a potential destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The proven English striker has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading hopes of being in the England World Cup. However, arranging a deal poses significant challenges. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

This energetic midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. With limited starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is eager to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United are strongly connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, remains a possibility, though wage demands might prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Although excelling and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented midfielder has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club prior to next season seems to be the sole viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkish attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. As his existing deal nearing its end, a host of English clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a race to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a major move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at approximately £22 million.