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This January transfer market is always a period of intense speculation and possible major transfers. Several prominent stars find themselves linked with transfers out of their present teams. This article explores some of the major figures who could be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the AFCON, which has left the forward available, reports suggest a major move is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a £65 million release clause applicable for a short window in early January. Recent reports indicate Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Other suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to other options, leaving clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The England centre-back has impress for Palace despite a previous move to Anfield falling through. As his contract set to run out in the close season, this represents the club's last opportunity to obtain a fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. However, a January exit remains unlikely, particularly given the coach's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales forward has had first-team opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Despite being the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun only a handful of Premier League games. Reports suggest the North London club is willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, believed to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an inquiry.

Spurs value the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal playmaker might be set for a return to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Still just twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spanish media that he would be willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona under new manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and had an operation, a winter exit seems increasingly probable. Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The proven England centre-forward has kept scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could boost his fading hopes of making the national squad. But, securing a deal poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported huge salary render any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, though financial demands might prove a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the talented player has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not become permanent. Because of specific rules regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool before next summer seems to be the only available solution.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. As his current deal nearing its end, a host of Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are eager to tie down the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ side. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to make a major move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but could face strong competition from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.