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The January recruitment period is typically a period of intense rumour and potential major transfers. A number of high-profile stars find themselves linked with transfers away from their present clubs. We examine some of the key names that might be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the player available, reports suggest a major move is imminent. This 25-year-old possesses a deal with a £65 million release clause active for a short window at the start of the month. Latest developments suggest the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his services. Former suitors such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have turned their attention to other options, leaving clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The England centre-back has continued to impress for Palace despite a summer move to Liverpool falling through. As his contract due to run out in the close season, January is the club's last opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous elite sides, including Manchester City and multiple continental powerhouses including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, reportedly be interested. Yet, a January exit is considered difficult, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales forward has found starting opportunities limited at Spurs this term. Although being the side's top scorer last season, he has begun only a small number of league matches. Reports suggest the North London outfit is open to a transfer for the right valuation, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries are currently at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford additionally credited with an inquiry.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal midfielder could be set for a comeback to the Premier League following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the player. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be willing to accept a reduced salary for a switch to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran Germany shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona following the coach Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January departure seems increasingly likely. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are reportedly expressing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

The prolific English centre-forward has kept scoring frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of making the national squad. But, arranging a transfer presents major hurdles. His current club are reluctant to part with him, and his alleged huge weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as admirers.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

This energetic English midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having few starts in La Liga this season, he may be eager to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United are strongly linked, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on a temporary deal, is also a option, although wage demands might prove a problem.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for game time during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a season, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer seems to be the sole viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkish forward has been in fine form for Juventus this term. With his existing contract nearing its end, a host of English clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a lengthy contract but are in a race to retain one of the continent's brightest young talents.

K. Smit

The highly-touted Dutch midfielder has drawn parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. Following impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to complete a major move in January. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but could face stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at approximately twenty-two million pounds.