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This winter recruitment period is typically a period of significant rumour and possible major transfers. A number of prominent players find themselves connected to moves away from their current teams. Here is a look at a selection of the top names that might be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the player available, indications are a significant move is close. This 25-year-old possesses a contract featuring a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a brief window in early January. Latest reports point to the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool falling through. With his deal set to expire in the summer, January is the London club's final opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of elite sides, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a January departure is considered difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the player.

B. Johnson

This Wales forward has had first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, he has started only a handful of Premier League matches. It is understood the London club is willing to consider a transfer for the correct price, believed to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese playmaker might be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now just twenty-eight, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he would be willing to accept a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça following new manager Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a winter departure seems increasingly probable. Aston Villa were once linked as a potential destination, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This proven England striker has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his fading hopes of being in the England World Cup. However, arranging a transfer presents major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge salary render any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, though wage demands could be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the young player has found it tough for game time on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for multiple teams in a season, a move back to Liverpool prior to next summer appears to be the only viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey forward is in excellent form for Juventus this term. With his existing deal nearing its end, many English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. The Turin club are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but face a battle to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to make a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.