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This winter transfer market proves to be a time of significant speculation and possible major moves. Several high-profile footballers find themselves connected to transfers away from their current clubs. We examine some of the major names who are poised to be changing clubs in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to reach the AFCON, this has left the player available, it appears a significant move is close. This 25-year-old possesses a deal featuring a substantial buy-out clause active for a short period in early January. Recent reports suggest the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have turned their attention to other options, leaving clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

This English centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Anfield falling through. As his deal set to expire in the summer, January is the club's last opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous elite clubs, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. However, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the manager's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has had first-team minutes limited at Tottenham this term. Despite being the club's top scorer last season, he has started only a handful of league games. It is understood the London club is open to a transfer for the correct valuation, thought 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 the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Now only 28, and with his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barcelona under the manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and had an operation, a winter exit seems highly likely. Aston Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This proven English centre-forward has continued scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of being in the national squad. However, securing a deal poses significant challenges. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge weekly wages render any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

Conor Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, is also a possibility, though financial constraints could prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this young player has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Because of specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club before next summer appears to be the sole available solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his existing deal running down, a host of English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are desperate to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but are in a race to keep one of Europe's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. The teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money move in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal valued at around £22 million.