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This winter transfer market proves to be a period of intense rumour and possible big-money transfers. Numerous prominent footballers find themselves linked with transfers away from their current clubs. Here is a look at a selection of the key names who could be changing clubs this month.

Antoine Semenyo

Despite Ghana's inability to reach the Africa Cup of Nations, which has left the player available, indications are a significant move is close. The Bournemouth attacker has a contract with a sizeable release clause active for a brief window at the start of the month. Latest developments suggest the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his signature. Other interested parties such as Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly have moved on to other options, potentially opening the door for teams like Manchester United or Liverpool to make a last-minute move.

Marc Guéhi

This England centre-back has excel for Palace this season a summer move to Anfield falling through. With his deal due to run out in the summer, this represents the London club's last opportunity to obtain a fee for their skipper. A host of top sides, such as City and several continental powerhouses like 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 defender.

B. Johnson

The Welsh winger has found starting opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Although being the club's leading goalscorer last season, he has begun only a small number of Premier League matches. Reports suggest the London club would be willing to consider a sale for the correct valuation, thought to be in the region of £40 million. The Cherries appear to be leading the chase, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also credited with an interest.

Tottenham value the Welsh international at around £40m.

Rúben Neves

This Portuguese playmaker might be set for a comeback to the Premier League after a period in the Saudi Pro League. Still only twenty-eight, while his agreement ending in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United have been connected to the player. Furthermore, there are suggestions from Spain that he would be willing to accept a pay cut for a switch to the Spanish giants.

M. ter Stegen

The experienced Germany shot-stopper finds himself as the third option at Barcelona under new coach Hansi Flick. After lost his place and undergone surgery, a winter departure looks increasingly probable. Villa were initially mentioned as a possible destination, but that option now appears off. Instead, clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia are reportedly expressing curiosity in the 33-year-old.

I. Toney

This proven England centre-forward has continued finding the net frequently in the Middle East. Coming back to the Premier League might enhance his fading chances of making the England World Cup. However, arranging a deal presents major challenges. His current club do not wish to sell him, and his reported huge salary make any agreement difficult. Tottenham, Manchester United, and Everton have all been mentioned as interested parties.

The striker helped Al-Ahli to victory in the domestic cup final.

Conor Gallagher

The energetic midfielder attracted considerable attention in the off-season but stayed at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in La Liga this season, he is eager to find more minutes ahead of the World Cup. United are heavily linked, and a move back to Selhurst Park, a club he excelled on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although financial constraints might be a problem.

Harvey Elliott

Despite excelling and being named player of the tournament at the U21 Euros in the summer, this young midfielder has found it tough for game time during his loan spell at Villa. The manager has stated the loan move won't become permanent. Due to FIFA regulations about representing two clubs in a campaign, a move back to Liverpool prior to next season appears to be the only available solution.

K. Yildiz

The exciting Turkey attacker has been in excellent form for Juventus this term. As his current contract running down, a host of Premier League sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the developments. The Turin club are eager to secure the youngster to a lengthy agreement but face a battle to keep one of Europe's most promising young talents.

Kees Smit

This highly-touted Netherlands midfielder has drawn comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has broken into the AZ Alkmaar side. The 19-year-old is heavily expected to make a major move this month. Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners, but are facing stiff competition from the Spanish champions for a signing valued at around £22 million.