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This winter transfer market is always a period of intense rumour and possible major moves. Several prominent footballers are being connected to moves out of their current teams. We examine some of the key figures who are poised to be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to reach the AFCON, which has kept the player in contention, it appears a significant move is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a sizeable release clause active for a short period in early January. Recent reports point to Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other targets, leaving clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late move.

Marc Guéhi

The English centre-back has continued to impress for Crystal Palace this season a previous transfer to Anfield falling through. With his contract set to expire in the close season, January is the club's last opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. Numerous elite sides, including Manchester City and several European giants like Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. However, a winter exit is considered unlikely, particularly given the coach's reliance on the player.

B. Johnson

The Wales winger has found first-team opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although being the side's top scorer the previous campaign, he has started only a handful of league games. It is understood the North London outfit is open to a sale for the correct valuation, thought to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also showing an interest.

Spurs value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

R. Neves

The Portugal playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a spell in Saudi Arabia. Still only twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United have been linked with the player. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to take a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced Germany goalkeeper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under new manager Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January exit looks increasingly likely. Villa were initially linked as a potential suitor, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The proven England striker has kept scoring regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of being in the national World Cup. However, securing a deal poses significant hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as interested parties.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. With few starting appearances in Spain this term, he may be eager to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, where he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, though financial demands could be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although starring and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros last summer, the talented midfielder has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not become permanent. Because of specific rules about representing two clubs in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next summer seems to be the only available outcome.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. As his existing contract nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are monitoring the developments. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a battle to retain one of Europe's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. The teenager is heavily expected to make a major transfer this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at approximately £22 million.