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This winter transfer market is typically a time of intense speculation and possible big-money deals. A number of high-profile footballers find themselves linked with moves out of their present teams. We examine some of the key names who could be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to reach the AFCON, which has left the forward available, reports suggest a major transfer is close. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract featuring a £65 million release clause active for a short period in early January. Recent developments point to Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his services. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The England centre-back has continued to excel for Palace despite a previous transfer to Liverpool falling through. With his deal due to expire in the close season, January is the club's final opportunity to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of elite sides, such as Manchester City and multiple European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. Yet, a winter exit remains difficult, especially given the coach's reliance on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Wales forward has had first-team minutes hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's top scorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a small number of Premier League games. It is understood the North London club is open to a transfer for the right valuation, believed to be in the around forty million pounds. Bournemouth appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at approximately forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese playmaker might be set for a comeback to the Premier League following a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, and with his contract ending in the summer, he is a possible opportunity. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The veteran German goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barcelona under new coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had surgery, a January departure looks increasingly likely. Villa were initially linked as a possible destination, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are thought to be showing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

This prolific England striker has kept scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of being in the national World Cup. However, securing a transfer presents significant hurdles. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages render any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as interested parties.

Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. Having limited starting appearances in La Liga this term, he may be eager to find more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are heavily linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a option, although wage constraints might be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the young midfielder has found it tough for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to specific rules regarding playing for multiple teams in a campaign, a return to his parent club before next season appears to be the sole viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkish attacker has been in fine form for the Italian giants this term. As his current deal nearing its end, a host of English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy contract but face a race to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to complete a major move this month. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at approximately twenty-two million pounds.