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The winter transfer window is always a time of significant rumour and possible major transfers. A number of notable players find themselves linked with moves out of their current teams. This article explores some of the top figures that could be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward available, it appears a major transfer is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a sizeable buy-out clause applicable for a brief window in early January. Recent reports point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative targets, leaving clubs such as Manchester United or Liverpool to make a late bid.

Marc Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to excel for Palace this season a summer transfer to Anfield collapsing. With his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the club's final chance to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. A host of top sides, such as City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to hold an interest. Yet, a winter departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the coach's reliance on the defender.

B. Johnson

This Wales winger has found first-team minutes limited at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started just a handful of league games. Reports suggest the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally credited with an interest.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portuguese playmaker might be set for a return to the English top flight following a period in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, and with his contract ending in the summer of 2026, he represents a potential bargain. Clubs such as Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spain that he is willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran German goalkeeper is now as third-choice at Barcelona following new manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and had surgery, a winter departure seems highly probable. Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

This proven England striker has continued finding the net regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could boost his fading hopes of making the national squad. But, arranging a deal presents major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary make any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been mentioned as interested parties.

The striker helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The energetic English midfielder attracted widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. With few starts in La Liga this term, he is eager to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United are heavily linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although financial constraints might be a stumbling block.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented midfielder has found it tough for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move will not become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for multiple teams in a season, a return to his parent club prior to next season appears to be the only viable solution.

Kenan Yildiz

This exciting Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. With his existing contract nearing its end, a host of English 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 face a race to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

The much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to make a big-money move this month. Newcastle are believed to be frontrunners, but could face stiff competition from Real Madrid for a deal valued at around twenty-two million pounds.