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The January recruitment period is typically a time of intense rumour and potential big-money transfers. Numerous prominent footballers find themselves connected to moves away from their present teams. Here is a look at some of the top figures who are poised to be changing clubs in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to reach the AFCON, which has left the forward in contention, indications are a major transfer is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a £65 million buy-out clause applicable for a two-week window in early January. Latest reports suggest the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late bid.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Liverpool collapsing. With his deal set to expire in the summer, this represents the club's last opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite sides, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit is considered difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Welsh forward has found first-team minutes hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although being the club's top scorer last season, Johnson has started just a small number of league matches. It is understood the North London outfit is open to a sale for the correct price, thought to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an interest.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese playmaker might be set for a comeback to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, while his contract expiring in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced German goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under the manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter departure looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a potential destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The proven English striker has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might boost his dwindling chances of being in the national World Cup. However, arranging a deal poses significant challenges. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all mentioned as interested parties.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. Having limited starts in La Liga this season, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he shone on loan, is also a option, although financial constraints could be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the talented player has found it tough for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club prior to next season appears to be the sole viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkey attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his current contract nearing its end, a host of English sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a race to keep one of the continent's brightest prospects.

Kees Smit

The much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a major transfer in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal priced at around £22 million.