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This January transfer market is typically a time of feverish rumour and possible big-money moves. A number of notable footballers are being connected to transfers out of their present teams. We examine some of the top figures who might be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward in contention, reports suggest an important move is close. The 25-year-old possesses a contract with a £65 million release clause active for a short window at the start of the month. Recent reports indicate the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

This English defender has excel for Palace this season a summer transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his deal due to expire in the close season, January is the London club's last chance to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as Manchester City and several European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. However, a winter exit remains difficult, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.

B. Johnson

The Welsh forward has had first-team opportunities limited at Tottenham this campaign. Despite being the club's top scorer last season, he has started just a small number of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the North London club is willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an inquiry.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese midfielder might be set for a return to the Premier League after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now just twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer of 2026, he is a potential bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spain that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran German shot-stopper is now as the third option at Barcelona under new coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a winter exit looks highly likely. Aston Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

This proven England centre-forward has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of being in the national World Cup. But, securing a transfer presents significant challenges. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.

The striker helped his Saudi club to a win in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

This energetic midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. Having few starts in La Liga this season, he is keen to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are heavily linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, though financial constraints could be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, the young player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the sole available solution.

K. Yildiz

This exciting Turkey forward is in excellent form for Juventus this term. With his current deal nearing its end, a host of Premier League sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a battle to keep one of the continent's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

The much-admired Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. This teenager is heavily expected to complete a big-money move in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal priced at approximately twenty-two million pounds.