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The winter recruitment period is typically a period of intense rumour and possible major transfers. A number of high-profile stars find themselves connected to moves out of their present clubs. We examine some of the key figures that could be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Despite Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward available, reports suggest a major move is close. The 25-year-old possesses a contract with a £65 million buy-out clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to other targets, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

The English defender has excel for Palace despite a previous transfer to Anfield falling through. With his deal set to run out in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, including Manchester City and several European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January exit remains unlikely, especially given the coach's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

This Welsh winger has had first-team opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Although finishing as the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has started only a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the North London outfit would be open to a sale for the right price, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an interest.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese midfielder might be set for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his contract ending in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be prepared to take a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça under the manager Flick. Having lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter departure seems highly likely. Aston Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that option currently seems off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This prolific England striker has kept finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading hopes of being in the England World Cup. But, securing a transfer poses significant hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his reported huge weekly wages make any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.

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

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starting appearances in Spain this term, he is keen to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are heavily connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, remains a option, although wage demands might be a problem.

H. Elliott

Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, the young midfielder has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool before next season appears to be the sole available solution.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkish attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing contract running down, a host of Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term contract but are in a race to keep one of Europe's most promising prospects.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is widely expected to make a major transfer in January. Newcastle United reportedly are leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.