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The January transfer window is always a period of intense rumour and potential big-money moves. A number of prominent footballers are being linked with moves away from their present clubs. We examine a selection of the top names who could be on the move this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the forward available, it appears a significant move is close. This Bournemouth attacker has a contract featuring a £65 million release clause applicable for a short window in early January. Latest reports indicate Manchester City are now the frontrunners for his signature. Former interested parties such as Chelsea and Tottenham are said to have moved on to alternative options, potentially opening the door for teams like Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late move.

M. Guéhi

This English defender has excel for Crystal Palace this season a summer move to Anfield falling through. As his deal due to expire in the summer, January is the London club's last chance to secure a fee for their skipper. A host of top clubs, including City and multiple continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, reportedly be interested. Yet, a winter departure is considered unlikely, particularly given the manager's dependence on the player.

Brennan Johnson

This Wales winger has had starting opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Although being the side's top scorer last season, Johnson has begun only a handful of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the North London club would be willing to consider a sale for the right valuation, thought to be in the around £40 million. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Brentford also credited with an inquiry.

Tottenham rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portugal playmaker might be poised for a return to the Premier League after a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only 28, while his contract expiring in the summer, he represents a potential bargain. Teams like Liverpool and Manchester United are connected to the former Wolves man. Additionally, there have been suggestions from Spain that he would be willing to accept a reduced salary for a move to the Spanish giants.

Marc-André ter Stegen

The veteran German goalkeeper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona following new manager Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone an operation, a winter departure looks increasingly likely. Villa were once linked as a possible suitor, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing interest in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This prolific England striker has kept scoring frequently in Saudi Arabia. Coming back to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of making the national World Cup. But, arranging a transfer presents significant challenges. Al-Ahli are reluctant to sell him, and his reported enormous weekly wages make any agreement difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United have all been linked as admirers.

Ivan Toney was instrumental as his Saudi club to victory in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

The dynamic midfielder attracted widespread interest in the summer but remained at Atlético. With few starts in La Liga this term, he is eager to secure more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United have been heavily linked, and a return to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on loan, remains a possibility, though wage demands could be a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Despite starring and winning the best player award at the U21 Euros last summer, this talented midfielder has struggled for minutes on loan at Villa. Unai Emery has stated the temporary transfer won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about playing for two clubs in a season, a move back to his parent club before next season appears to be the sole viable outcome.

K. Yildiz

The highly-rated Turkey attacker has been in fine form for Juventus this season. As his current contract running down, a host of Premier League sides – such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham – are keeping tabs on the developments. The Turin club are desperate to tie down the 20-year-old to a new long-term agreement but are in a race to keep one of the continent's brightest prospects.

Kees Smit

The much-admired Dutch midfielder has earned 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 Alkmaar first team. The 19-year-old is widely tipped to make a big-money transfer in January. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing strong rivalry from the Spanish champions for a signing priced at approximately £22 million.