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The winter transfer window proves to be a period of intense speculation and possible major deals. A number of high-profile players are being linked with transfers away from their present clubs. Here is a look at some of the major names that might be on the move in January.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has kept the forward in contention, indications are a major transfer is close. This 25-year-old possesses a contract featuring a £65 million buy-out clause applicable for a two-week window at the start of the month. Latest developments indicate Manchester City look to have won the race for his signature. Other suitors like Tottenham and Chelsea are said to have turned their attention to other options, potentially opening the door for teams such as Liverpool or Manchester United to make a late bid.

M. Guéhi

This England centre-back has impress for Palace despite a previous move to Liverpool falling through. With his contract due to expire in the close season, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous top sides, such as Manchester City and multiple European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to hold an interest. However, a January exit is considered difficult, especially given the manager's reliance on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh winger has had starting opportunities hard to come by at Spurs this campaign. Although being the side's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has started just a handful of Premier League games. It is understood the London outfit would be willing to consider a transfer for the right valuation, believed to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an inquiry.

Spurs value Brennan Johnson at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal midfielder could be poised for a return to the English top flight following a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still just 28, while his contract ending in the summer, he represents a potential bargain. Teams such as Liverpool and Manchester United are linked with the former Wolves man. Furthermore, there are rumours from Spain that he would be prepared to accept a reduced salary for a switch to Real Madrid.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran German shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barça following new coach Hansi Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January departure seems increasingly probable. Aston Villa were once mentioned as a possible suitor, but that move now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

The proven England centre-forward has kept scoring regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League might boost his fading hopes of making the national World Cup. However, arranging a transfer poses major challenges. Al-Ahli do not wish to part with him, and his alleged enormous salary make any move difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as admirers.

The striker was instrumental as Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup final.

C. Gallagher

This dynamic midfielder drew widespread interest in the off-season but remained at Atlético Madrid. Having limited starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be keen to find more playing time ahead of the World Cup. Manchester United have been strongly linked, and a return to Crystal Palace, where he excelled on loan, is also a option, though financial constraints could be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although excelling and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this young player has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the loan move won't become permanent. Because of specific rules about representing two clubs in a season, a move back to his parent club prior to next summer seems to be the sole viable solution.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkish forward is in fine form for the Italian giants this season. With his current contract nearing its end, a host of English sides – including Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are eager to secure the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a race to keep one of Europe's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his playing style. Following starring at the U19 Euros, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. The teenager is heavily tipped to make a major move in January. Newcastle reportedly are leading the chase, but could face strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal priced at around £22 million.