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The winter recruitment period is typically a time of intense rumour and possible major deals. Several notable players find themselves linked with transfers away from their present clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the major figures who are poised to be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Although Ghana's failure to qualify for the AFCON, which has kept the forward in contention, reports suggest a significant transfer is imminent. This Bournemouth attacker possesses a contract with a sizeable buy-out clause active for a brief window at the start of the month. Latest developments indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Former suitors like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The English centre-back has impress for Palace this season a summer move to Liverpool falling through. As his deal set to run out in the close season, January is the London club's last chance to obtain a fee for their skipper. A host of top clubs, including City and several European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. However, a January exit is considered unlikely, especially given the manager's reliance on the player.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh forward has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Tottenham this campaign. Although being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun just a handful of league games. It is understood the North London club would be willing to consider a sale for the correct price, thought to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace additionally showing an interest.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at approximately £40m.

R. Neves

This Portugal midfielder could be poised for a return to the English top flight after a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a possible opportunity. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been suggestions from Spain that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran German goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barcelona following new manager Flick. Having lost his place and had an operation, a winter exit seems highly likely. Villa were once linked as a potential destination, but that option currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly showing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

This prolific England centre-forward has kept scoring regularly in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his dwindling hopes of making the national squad. But, arranging a deal presents major hurdles. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged huge salary render any agreement complicated. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been linked as interested parties.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder attracted widespread interest in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starts in La Liga this term, he may be keen to find more minutes ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been heavily linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on loan, is also a option, although financial constraints could be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite starring and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this young player has struggled for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations regarding representing multiple teams in a campaign, a return to Liverpool before next summer seems to be the only available solution.

Kenan Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkey attacker is in fine form for Juventus this season. With his current contract nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. Juventus are desperate to tie down the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a race to keep one of Europe's brightest young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Dutch midfielder has drawn comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ first team. The teenager is widely tipped to make a big-money move this month. Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase, but could face strong rivalry from Real Madrid for a signing valued at around twenty-two million pounds.