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This winter recruitment period is typically a period of feverish rumour and possible big-money deals. Numerous high-profile players find themselves connected to transfers away from their current teams. We examine some of the key names that could be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has kept the player in contention, indications are an important transfer is close. The Bournemouth attacker has a deal with a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a short period in early January. Recent developments indicate the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other interested parties like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative targets, leaving clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The England centre-back has continued to impress for Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. As his contract set to run out in the close season, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the coach's reliance on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales winger has found starting minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Despite being the club's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started just a handful of Premier League games. It is understood the London outfit is willing to consider a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an inquiry.

Spurs value the Welsh international at around £40m.

R. Neves

The Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a return to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential opportunity. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spain that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça following new manager Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January exit seems highly probable. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing interest in the keeper.

I. Toney

This prolific England striker has kept scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his fading chances of making the England World Cup. But, arranging a deal poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as admirers.

The striker helped his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

The energetic midfielder drew widespread attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. United are heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he shone on loan, is also a option, though financial demands might prove a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented player has found it tough for game time on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Due to specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the only available outcome.

K. Yildiz

This exciting Turkish attacker is in excellent form for Juventus this season. As his existing contract running down, many English clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy agreement but are in a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

This much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. The teenager is heavily expected to make a major transfer in January. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.