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The January recruitment period is typically a time of intense rumour and potential major transfers. Numerous notable footballers are being linked with moves out of their current teams. Here is a look at some of the major names who could be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to qualify for the AFCON, this has kept the player in contention, reports suggest a major move is imminent. The 25-year-old possesses a deal with a substantial buy-out clause applicable for a brief period in early January. Recent developments indicate the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to alternative options, leaving teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to attempt a late move.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has impress for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Liverpool collapsing. With his contract set to run out in the summer, this represents the club's final opportunity to secure a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, including City and several European giants including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, are believed to be interested. Yet, a January departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the coach's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales winger has had starting opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Although finishing as the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, he has started just a handful of Premier League games. Reports suggest the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the region of £40 million. Bournemouth are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an inquiry.

Spurs value the Welsh international at around forty million pounds.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal playmaker might be set for a return to the English top flight following a spell in the Saudi Pro League. Now only 28, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he would be willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barcelona under the coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and had surgery, a January exit seems increasingly likely. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a potential suitor, but that option now appears off. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing interest in the 33-year-old.

Ivan Toney

The proven English striker has continued scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. A return to the Premier League might enhance his fading hopes of being in the national squad. However, arranging a transfer presents major hurdles. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his alleged enormous salary make any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as admirers.

The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to a win in the Saudi Super Cup showpiece.

C. Gallagher

The dynamic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in La Liga this season, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the World Cup. United have been heavily connected, and a move back to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, though wage constraints could be a problem.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning the best player award at the Under-21 European Championship in the summer, the young player has found it tough for game time on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations regarding representing two clubs in a season, a move back to Liverpool before next summer appears to be the sole available outcome.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkish forward has been in excellent form for the Italian giants this season. With his current contract nearing its end, many Premier League clubs – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the situation. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the youngster to a new long-term agreement but face a race to retain one of the continent's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This much-admired Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to a Belgian superstar for his playing style. Following starring at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ side. This 19-year-old is heavily tipped to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.