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The January transfer market is typically a period of intense rumour and possible big-money moves. Several notable players find themselves linked with moves out of their current clubs. This article explores a selection of the top figures that might be on the move in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward in contention, reports suggest an important move is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a deal featuring a sizeable buy-out clause active for a two-week period in early January. Recent reports point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Other suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, potentially opening the door for teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

This English centre-back has continued to impress for Palace despite a summer move to Anfield falling through. With his deal due to run out in the summer, January is the London club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of elite clubs, including City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure remains unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

This Welsh winger has found starting opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Despite finishing as the club's top scorer last season, he has started just a small number of league games. Reports suggest the North London club is open to a sale for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an inquiry.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Still just 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential opportunity. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he would be prepared to accept a pay cut for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran German shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following the coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone an operation, a January exit seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that move now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This proven English centre-forward has kept finding the net frequently in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of being in the national World Cup. But, arranging a deal presents major hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary render any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to a win in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted considerable interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. With limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he is eager to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are heavily linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, though financial constraints could prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this talented player has struggled for game time on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer appears to be the only available outcome.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey attacker is in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing deal running down, a host of Premier League sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. Juventus are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term agreement but are in a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

This much-admired Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. After impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar first team. The 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a major move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.