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This January recruitment period is typically a time of intense rumour and possible major deals. Numerous notable footballers are being linked with moves away from their current teams. We examine a selection of the top figures that could be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to reach the AFCON, this has left the player in contention, indications are a major transfer is close. This 25-year-old possesses a contract featuring a substantial release clause applicable for a two-week window at the start of the month. Latest reports indicate Manchester City have emerged as his signature. Other interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have turned their attention to other targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Anfield collapsing. As his deal due to run out in the close season, January is the London club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, including City and multiple European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. Yet, a January departure remains unlikely, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Wales winger has found starting minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the club's top scorer the previous campaign, he has begun just a small number of league matches. It is understood the North London outfit would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an inquiry.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only 28, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça under new manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a January exit seems increasingly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible suitor, but that move currently seems off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The proven English centre-forward has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of being in the England World Cup. But, securing a transfer presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary render any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.

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

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With few starts in Spain this term, he may be eager to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, though wage demands could prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented midfielder has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for two clubs in a season, a return to Liverpool before next summer seems to be the sole viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish attacker is in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is widely expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.