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The winter transfer market proves to be a period of intense speculation and possible big-money moves. A number of prominent players find themselves connected to transfers out of their present clubs. We examine some of the top figures that might be changing clubs this month.

A. Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward available, indications are an important transfer is imminent. The 25-year-old has a contract featuring a £65 million release clause active for a two-week window at the start of the month. Recent reports point to Manchester City have emerged as his services. Former suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late bid.

M. Guéhi

This English centre-back has excel for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield falling through. With his contract due to expire in the close season, this represents the London club's last chance to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite clubs, including Manchester City and several European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter exit remains difficult, especially given the manager's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

This Welsh winger has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Despite being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a handful of league matches. Reports suggest the North London club would be open to a transfer for the right valuation, thought to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an inquiry.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be set for a return to the Premier League after a period in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça under the manager Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone surgery, a January exit seems highly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a possible destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The proven English centre-forward has kept scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of being in the England squad. But, securing a deal presents significant challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported huge salary render any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.

The striker helped his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The dynamic midfielder drew considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United are strongly connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a option, although wage demands might be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, the talented player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Because of specific rules about playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next season appears to be the only viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current deal nearing its end, a host of English clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but are in a race to retain one of Europe's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

This much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. This teenager is heavily expected to complete a major move in January. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but could face stiff competition from Real Madrid for a signing priced at around £22 million.