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This January transfer market is always a time of intense rumour and possible big-money transfers. A number of prominent footballers find themselves connected to transfers away from their current teams. This article explores some of the top figures that are poised to be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward available, reports suggest a significant move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a substantial buy-out clause active for a short window at the start of the month. Latest reports point to the Premier League champions have emerged as his services. Former interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute move.

Marc Guéhi

This English defender has impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer transfer to Liverpool falling through. As his contract set to run out in the close season, January is the club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous elite sides, including City and multiple continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a winter departure is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's reliance on the player.

B. Johnson

The Wales forward has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this term. Although being the side's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has begun just a small number of league games. Reports suggest the North London club is open to a sale for the right price, believed to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an interest.

Tottenham rate Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese midfielder could be poised for a return to the Premier League following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now just 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a potential opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he would be prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new coach Hansi Flick. Having lost his place and had an operation, a January departure seems highly probable. Villa were once linked as a possible destination, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This proven English centre-forward has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading hopes of being in the national World Cup. However, arranging a deal presents significant challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages make any agreement complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.

Conor Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in Spain this season, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United have been strongly connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on loan, remains a possibility, though financial constraints might prove a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the temporary transfer won't be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next season appears to be the sole viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing contract running down, many English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a race to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

The much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This teenager is widely expected to make a major move in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but are facing stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around twenty-two million pounds.