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This winter recruitment period proves to be a time of significant speculation and potential major transfers. A number of high-profile stars are being connected to transfers out of their present clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the key figures that could be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite the Black Stars' failure to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, this has kept the forward available, indications are an important move is imminent. The Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a substantial buy-out clause active for a two-week window at the start of the month. Latest reports point to Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Other interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to other options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

Marc Guéhi

This English centre-back has continued to excel for Palace despite a previous move to Anfield collapsing. As his contract due to run out in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a fee for their captain. A host of top clubs, including City and several European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a January departure remains difficult, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales winger has found first-team minutes hard to come by at Spurs this term. Despite finishing as the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has begun just a small number of Premier League matches. It is understood the North London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham value Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal playmaker could be set for a comeback to the Premier League after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, while his agreement expiring in the summer, he represents a possible bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are suggestions from Spanish media that he would be willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça following the coach Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January departure looks increasingly likely. Villa were initially mentioned as a potential destination, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The prolific England centre-forward has kept finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling chances of making the national World Cup. But, arranging a deal presents major hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all mentioned as interested parties.

The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

This energetic midfielder drew considerable attention in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in Spain this term, he may be keen to secure more minutes ahead of the tournament. United are heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, though wage demands might be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, this young midfielder has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move will not be made permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for two clubs in a season, a return to his parent club before next season appears to be the only viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkish forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this season. With his existing deal running down, many English sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a new long-term agreement but are in a race to keep one of the continent's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

The highly-touted Dutch teenage midfielder has drawn parallels to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has broken into the AZ Alkmaar first team. This 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a major move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong competition from Real Madrid for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.