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This winter transfer window is always a period of feverish rumour and potential big-money moves. Numerous notable footballers find themselves connected to moves away from their current clubs. We examine a selection of the top figures that might be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the player available, it appears a significant transfer is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract featuring a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a short window at the start of the month. Recent reports indicate Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other options, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late move.

Marc Guéhi

The England centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his deal due to expire in the close season, January is the London club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of top clubs, including City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter exit is considered unlikely, particularly given the coach's reliance on the player.

B. Johnson

This Wales winger has found starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the club's top scorer last season, he has begun only a small number of league games. Reports suggest the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an interest.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona following new manager Flick. After lost his place and undergone surgery, a January exit looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The prolific England centre-forward has continued finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of being in the England squad. But, arranging a deal presents major challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any move complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as admirers.

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

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he may be eager to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, remains a option, although financial constraints could be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, the young player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules regarding representing multiple teams in a season, a return to Liverpool before next summer seems to be the sole viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

The exciting Turkey attacker is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his current deal nearing its end, a host of English clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. The Turin club are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a race to retain one of the continent's most promising prospects.

K. Smit

The highly-touted Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to complete a big-money move in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a deal valued at approximately twenty-two million pounds.