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The January recruitment period proves to be a period of intense speculation and possible major deals. Several notable players find themselves linked with transfers out of their present clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the key figures who are poised to be changing clubs in January.

A. Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward available, it appears a significant transfer is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a contract featuring a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a brief window in early January. Latest developments indicate the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to other options, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a late bid.

M. Guéhi

This English defender has continued to excel for Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool collapsing. As his contract set to expire in the summer, January is the London club's final opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, including City and several continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. However, a winter departure is considered difficult, particularly given the coach's reliance on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has had first-team opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started just a small number of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right price, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an interest.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese midfielder might be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in Saudi Arabia. Still just 28, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he is a possible bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça following new manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter exit looks increasingly probable. Aston Villa were initially linked as a possible suitor, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England striker has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of being in the national squad. However, arranging a transfer presents significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having few starts in Spain this term, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, although wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the talented player has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding representing two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season seems to be the sole viable solution.

K. Yildiz

This exciting Turkish forward is in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. With his existing deal nearing its end, a host of English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but face a race to keep one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

The much-admired Netherlands midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ first team. This teenager is widely expected to complete a big-money transfer this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.