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The winter recruitment period is always a period of intense rumour and possible big-money transfers. A number of notable footballers find themselves connected to transfers away from their present clubs. Here is a look at some of the key names that could be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, this has left the player available, indications are an important move is imminent. The 25-year-old has a contract featuring a £65 million release clause active for a brief window at the start of the month. Latest reports point to the Premier League champions have emerged as his services. Former suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

This English defender has continued to impress for Palace this season a previous move to Anfield falling through. With his contract due to expire in the close season, this represents the club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. A host of elite sides, including City and several European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly hold an interest. However, a January departure is considered unlikely, especially given the manager's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh winger has found starting minutes hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Despite finishing as the side's top scorer last season, he has started only a small number of league matches. It is understood the London outfit is open to a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

R. Neves

This Portugal playmaker might be poised for a comeback to the Premier League following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a potential bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spain that he is prepared to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

This veteran Germany goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barça following the manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and had an operation, a winter exit seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The proven England centre-forward has kept scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling chances of being in the England squad. However, arranging a transfer presents major hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged enormous weekly wages render any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to victory in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in Spain this term, he is eager to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are heavily connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a option, although financial constraints might be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, the talented midfielder has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to his parent club before next summer appears to be the only viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. With his existing deal nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a race to retain one of Europe's brightest young talents.

K. Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ first team. This teenager is widely expected to make a major transfer in January. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.