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This January transfer window is always a period of intense speculation and possible big-money deals. A number of notable footballers are being linked with moves away from their current teams. Here is a look at some of the top figures that are poised to be changing clubs in January.

Antoine Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' inability to reach the AFCON, this has left the player in contention, indications are a significant transfer is close. The 25-year-old possesses a contract featuring a sizeable buy-out clause active for a brief window in early January. Latest reports indicate the Premier League champions look to have won the race for his signature. Other suitors such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have turned their attention to alternative targets, leaving clubs like Liverpool or Manchester United to make a last-minute bid.

M. Guéhi

The England centre-back has continued to excel for Crystal Palace this season a previous move to Liverpool collapsing. With his deal set to expire in the summer, this represents the London club's final opportunity to obtain a transfer fee for their skipper. Numerous top clubs, such as City and multiple European giants including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly hold an interest. However, a winter departure is considered difficult, particularly given the manager's dependence on the defender.

B. Johnson

This Welsh winger has had starting opportunities limited at Tottenham this term. Despite being the side's top scorer the previous campaign, he has begun only a handful of Premier League games. It is understood the London club would be willing to consider a transfer for the right price, believed to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries are currently leading the chase, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an inquiry.

Spurs rate Brennan Johnson at approximately £40m.

Rúben Neves

The Portugal midfielder could be set for a return to the Premier League after a period in Saudi Arabia. Still only 28, and with his agreement ending in the summer, he is a possible bargain. Clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Additionally, there are rumours from Spain that he is prepared to take a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced German goalkeeper is now as the third option at Barça under new coach Flick. Having fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a January exit looks highly probable. Aston Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that option now appears unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be showing interest in the keeper.

I. Toney

This proven English centre-forward has continued scoring regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his dwindling chances of being in the England World Cup. But, arranging a deal poses significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his reported huge weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton are all linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney helped his Saudi club to victory in the Saudi Super Cup final.

C. Gallagher

The dynamic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the summer but stayed at Atlético Madrid. With limited starts in Spain this term, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. Manchester United have been strongly linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, is also a possibility, although wage constraints might prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite excelling and winning player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented player has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. Unai Emery has confirmed the temporary transfer will not be made permanent. Because of FIFA regulations about playing for multiple teams in a season, a move back to Liverpool before next season seems to be the sole available solution.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkish attacker is in fine form for the Italian giants this term. With his current deal nearing its end, many English sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are eager to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term contract but are in a battle to keep one of Europe's brightest prospects.

K. Smit

The much-admired Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned parallels to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After starring at the Under-19 European Championship, he has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. The teenager is widely tipped to make a major move in January. Newcastle reportedly are frontrunners, but are facing stiff rivalry from the Spanish champions for a deal valued at around £22 million.