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The winter transfer market is always a time of intense rumour and possible big-money transfers. A number of notable players are being connected to transfers out of their current teams. We examine a selection of the top names that could be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the player available, it appears a significant move is imminent. The 25-year-old has a deal with a £65 million buy-out clause applicable for a brief window at the start of the month. Recent reports indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his services. Former interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late bid.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has continued to impress for Palace despite a previous move to Anfield collapsing. As his deal due to run out in the close season, January is the London club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top sides, including Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. However, a January exit is considered difficult, especially given the manager's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Welsh winger has had starting minutes hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although being the side's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun only a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the North London outfit is open to a transfer for the right valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an interest.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal midfielder could be poised for a return to the English top flight after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, while his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a possible bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new coach Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and had surgery, a January departure looks increasingly likely. Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The prolific English centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of making the England squad. But, securing a transfer poses significant challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his reported huge weekly wages make any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as interested parties.

The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder drew considerable interest in the summer but stayed at Atlético. With limited starts in La Liga this term, he may be eager to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on loan, remains a option, though financial constraints might prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Although starring and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, the talented player has struggled for game time on loan at Aston Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the only viable solution.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his existing deal nearing its end, many 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 face a battle to retain one of Europe's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

This highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. This teenager is widely expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing priced at around twenty-two million pounds.