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This winter recruitment period proves to be a period of significant rumour and possible big-money deals. A number of high-profile footballers find themselves connected to moves away from their current clubs. This article explores a selection of the key names that might be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the player available, indications are a major move is close. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest developments point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Other interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The England defender has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Anfield falling through. With his contract due to expire in the close season, this represents the club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their captain. A host of elite clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. However, a January exit is considered unlikely, especially given the manager's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has found starting minutes limited at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the side's leading goalscorer last season, he has started only a handful of league games. It is understood the London outfit is willing to consider a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an interest.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

R. Neves

The Portugal midfielder might be set for a comeback to the Premier League after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça under the coach Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a winter exit looks highly likely. Villa were once mentioned as a potential destination, but that move currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

This prolific English centre-forward 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. However, securing a deal poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages make any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.

The striker helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This energetic midfielder drew considerable interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starting appearances in Spain this term, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are heavily connected, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, though financial demands might be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, the talented player has struggled for minutes during his loan spell at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next season seems to be the sole viable solution.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish attacker has been in fine form for Juventus this season. As his existing contract nearing its end, a host of Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but face a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.

K. Smit

This highly-touted Dutch midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a major move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal priced at around £22 million.