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This winter transfer window is typically a time of intense speculation and possible major transfers. Numerous high-profile footballers find themselves connected to moves out of their present teams. This article explores some of the major names that might be changing clubs in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to reach the AFCON, this has kept the forward available, indications are a major transfer is close. The 25-year-old has a contract with a sizeable release clause active for a two-week period at the start of the month. Latest reports suggest Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to other targets, leaving teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

The English defender has continued to impress for Crystal Palace this season a previous move to Anfield falling through. With his contract set to run out in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of elite clubs, such as Manchester City and several continental powerhouses like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. However, a January exit remains difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the defender.

B. Johnson

The Wales forward has found first-team opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Despite finishing as the club's leading goalscorer last season, Johnson has started just a handful of league matches. Reports suggest the London club is willing to consider a sale for the correct price, believed to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an interest.

Spurs value the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese midfielder might be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still only twenty-eight, while his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, he is a potential opportunity. Teams such as Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran German goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barça under the coach Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter departure looks increasingly likely. Aston Villa were initially linked as a potential destination, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly showing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This proven England centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his dwindling hopes of making the England squad. But, arranging a transfer poses significant hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This energetic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the summer but remained at Atlético. With few starting appearances in La Liga this term, he is keen to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, although financial constraints might be a problem.

H. Elliott

Although starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship last summer, this talented player has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next summer appears to be the only available solution.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. As his existing deal nearing its end, many English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a race to keep one of the continent's most promising young talents.

K. Smit

The highly-touted Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following impressing at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. This teenager is widely expected to make a major move this month. Newcastle United reportedly are frontrunners, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at around £22 million.