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The winter transfer market proves to be a time of intense rumour and possible big-money transfers. Several high-profile players are being linked with transfers away from their present clubs. We examine some of the key names who could be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to qualify for the AFCON, this has left the player in contention, indications are an important move is imminent. The 25-year-old has a contract with a substantial buy-out clause active for a brief period at the start of the month. Recent developments indicate Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

M. Guéhi

This England defender has impress for Crystal Palace despite a summer move to Anfield collapsing. As his deal set to run out in the summer, this represents the London club's final chance to secure a fee for their captain. Numerous top sides, including Manchester 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, especially given the manager's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales forward has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Although being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun only a small number of league matches. It is understood the North London club is willing to consider a sale for the right price, thought to be in the around forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an interest.

Spurs value the Welsh international at around £40m.

R. Neves

This Portuguese playmaker could be set for a return to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still only 28, and with his agreement expiring in the summer, he is a potential opportunity. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool have been connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to take a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran Germany goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barça following new manager Flick. After fallen out of favour and had an operation, a January departure seems increasingly probable. Aston Villa were once linked as a possible destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This prolific England striker has kept finding the net frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling hopes of being in the England squad. However, securing a transfer presents major hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported enormous salary render any move complicated. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.

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

C. Gallagher

This dynamic English midfielder drew considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starts in La Liga this season, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United are strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he excelled on loan, remains a possibility, although wage constraints could prove a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Although starring and being named the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the talented midfielder has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the loan move won't be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club prior to next summer seems to be the sole available solution.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish forward has been in excellent form for Juventus this term. With his current contract running down, many English sides – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy agreement but are in a battle to keep one of the continent's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

The much-admired Dutch midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the U19 Euros, he has broken into the AZ first team. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a major move in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but could face strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing valued at approximately £22 million.