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This January transfer window is always a period of feverish speculation and possible major transfers. Several notable footballers find themselves connected to transfers away from their present teams. We examine a selection of the top names that might be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to qualify for the AFCON, which has left the forward available, indications are a significant transfer is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a substantial buy-out clause active for a brief window at the start of the month. Recent reports point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

The English defender has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his deal due to expire in the summer, January is the club's last opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous elite sides, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales winger has had starting minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Despite being the side's top scorer the previous campaign, he has started just a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the North London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, believed to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

R. Neves

The Portugal playmaker could be poised for a return to the Premier League following a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still just 28, while his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is prepared to accept a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The experienced German shot-stopper is now as third-choice at Barça under new manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter departure seems highly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible suitor, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The proven English striker has kept finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of making the national squad. But, securing a transfer poses significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge weekly wages render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in Spain this term, he is eager to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on loan, remains a possibility, although financial demands might be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented player has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules about playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next season appears to be the sole viable outcome.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this term. With his existing deal running down, many English clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are eager to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. After starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ first team. The teenager is heavily tipped to make a big-money move this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.