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This January recruitment period proves to be a time of feverish speculation and possible major deals. A number of high-profile stars are being connected to moves away from their present teams. We examine some of the top names who could be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player available, reports suggest a major transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Recent developments point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Former interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to other options, leaving teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late move.

M. Guéhi

The England centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his deal due to expire in the close season, this represents the club's final chance to obtain a fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter departure remains difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the player.

B. Johnson

The Wales winger has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has begun just a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the North London outfit is willing to consider a transfer for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an interest.

Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

R. Neves

This Portugal playmaker could be poised for a return to the Premier League after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now just twenty-eight, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spanish media that he would be willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This experienced Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barça following the coach Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and undergone surgery, a January exit seems increasingly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The prolific England striker has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of making the national World Cup. But, arranging a deal presents major hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge salary make any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all mentioned as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. Having few starts in La Liga this season, he is eager to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, though wage constraints could prove a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the young midfielder has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't become permanent. Due to specific rules about playing for two clubs in a season, a move back to his parent club before next season appears to be the sole available outcome.

K. Yildiz

This exciting Turkish forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. As his current deal nearing its end, a host of Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ first team. The 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.