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The January transfer market is always a period of significant rumour and possible major deals. Numerous prominent players are being connected to transfers away from their current teams. This article explores some of the major figures that are poised to be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player in contention, it appears a major move is imminent. This 25-year-old has a deal featuring a substantial release clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Latest developments suggest Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late move.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. As his deal set to expire in the summer, this represents the London club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous elite clubs, such as City and multiple European giants like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a January departure remains unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh forward has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a handful of Premier League games. Reports suggest the North London club would be willing to consider a transfer for the right valuation, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an interest.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese playmaker might be poised for a return to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be prepared to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barcelona following the coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a winter departure seems highly probable. Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that option currently seems off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This proven England centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could boost his fading chances of being in the national World Cup. However, securing a deal poses major hurdles. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary make any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With few starting appearances in La Liga this season, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on loan, remains a option, although wage demands could prove a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, the young midfielder has found it tough for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move will not be made permanent. Because of specific rules regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next season seems to be the only viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The exciting Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. As his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are desperate to secure the 20-year-old to a lengthy agreement but face a race to retain one of Europe's most promising prospects.

K. Smit

The much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. The 19-year-old is widely expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.