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The winter transfer market proves to be a period of intense speculation and possible major moves. A number of notable players find themselves connected to transfers out of their present clubs. We examine some of the top figures that are poised to be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the player in contention, indications are a significant transfer is close. The 25-year-old possesses a contract with a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a brief window in early January. Recent developments point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to other targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late bid.

M. Guéhi

The English centre-back has impress for Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. With his deal set to run out in the close season, this represents the club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. However, a January exit remains unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Despite finishing as the club's top scorer last season, he has begun only a small number of league games. It is understood the North London club is open to a transfer for the right valuation, thought to be in the around £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally showing an inquiry.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese playmaker might be poised for a return to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential bargain. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spanish media that he is prepared to take a pay cut for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran German shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça under the manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter exit seems highly probable. Villa were initially linked as a potential suitor, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This prolific English striker has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of making the national squad. However, arranging a deal presents significant hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages render any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in La Liga this season, he may be keen to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are strongly connected, and a move back to Selhurst Park, where he excelled on loan, remains a option, although wage constraints could be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the young player has found it tough for minutes during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Due to specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the only available outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish forward is in fine form for Juventus this season. As his existing contract nearing its end, many English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but are in a battle to retain one of the continent's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

This much-admired Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ side. The 19-year-old is widely expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately £22 million.