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The winter transfer market is always a time of feverish speculation and potential big-money transfers. Numerous notable footballers are being linked with transfers away from their present clubs. This article explores a selection of the major figures that are poised to be changing clubs in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the player in contention, it appears a major transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a deal featuring a £65 million buy-out clause active for a short window in early January. Latest reports indicate Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late bid.

M. Guéhi

This English centre-back has excel for Crystal Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. With his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the club's last opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of elite clubs, including Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. However, a winter exit is considered difficult, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales winger has found starting opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the side's top scorer the previous campaign, he has started only a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the North London outfit would be open to a sale for the correct price, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese midfielder could be set for a return to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, while his contract ending in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça following new manager Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter departure seems highly probable. Villa were once linked as a potential suitor, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The proven English centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of making the national squad. But, arranging a transfer poses significant challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary make any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic midfielder drew widespread attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With few starts in Spain this term, he may be keen to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are strongly connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he shone on loan, is also a possibility, although financial constraints could prove a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented midfielder has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club before next season seems to be the sole viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. As his existing deal nearing its end, many English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising prospects.

K. Smit

The highly-touted Dutch midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ side. The 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a major move in January. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff competition from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around £22 million.