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This winter transfer market proves to be a time of intense speculation and potential big-money moves. Numerous prominent footballers find themselves linked with transfers out of their present clubs. Here is a look at some of the top names that are poised to be on the move this month.

A. Semenyo

Although the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the AFCON, this has kept the player available, indications are a major transfer is close. The 25-year-old possesses a contract featuring a sizeable release clause applicable for a brief window in early January. Recent developments point to the Premier League champions are now the frontrunners for his services. Former interested parties like Chelsea and Tottenham reportedly have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for clubs such as Liverpool or Manchester United to attempt a late move.

Marc Guéhi

This England defender has continued to excel for Palace this season a previous move to Anfield collapsing. With his deal due to run out in the summer, this represents the club's last chance to obtain a transfer fee for their captain. Numerous top clubs, such as City and several continental powerhouses including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, are believed to be interested. However, a January exit remains unlikely, especially given the manager's dependence on the defender.

Brennan Johnson

The Welsh winger has had starting opportunities limited at Spurs this campaign. Although being the club's leading goalscorer the previous campaign, Johnson has begun only a handful of Premier League games. Reports suggest the London outfit would be open to a transfer for the right price, thought to be in the region of forty million pounds. The Cherries appear to be at the front of the queue, with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also showing an inquiry.

Spurs rate the Welsh international at around £40m.

R. Neves

The Portugal playmaker could be poised for a comeback to the English top flight after a period in Saudi Arabia. Now only twenty-eight, and with his contract expiring in the summer, he is a potential bargain. Teams like Manchester United and Liverpool are connected to the player. Furthermore, there have been rumours from Spanish media that he is willing to accept a pay cut for a move to Real Madrid.

M. ter Stegen

This veteran German shot-stopper finds himself as third-choice at Barça following new coach Hansi Flick. After fallen out of favour and undergone surgery, a winter departure seems highly probable. Villa were once mentioned as a potential destination, but that move currently seems unlikely. Instead, clubs from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are thought to be expressing curiosity in the keeper.

Ivan Toney

This prolific England striker has continued finding the net regularly in the Middle East. A return to the Premier League could enhance his fading chances of being in the England World Cup. But, securing a deal presents significant hurdles. His current club do not wish to part with him, and his reported huge salary render any move difficult. Everton, Tottenham, and Manchester United are all linked as admirers.

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

Conor Gallagher

This dynamic English midfielder drew widespread attention in the off-season but remained at Atlético. Having few starting appearances in Spain this season, he may be keen to secure more playing time ahead of the tournament. United are strongly connected, and a return to Crystal Palace, a club he shone on a temporary deal, remains a possibility, although financial demands could prove a stumbling block.

H. Elliott

Although starring and being named the best player award at the U21 Euros in the summer, this talented midfielder has found it tough for minutes on loan at Aston Villa. The manager has confirmed the loan move will not become permanent. Because of specific rules about representing multiple teams in a campaign, a move back to his parent club before next summer seems to be the only viable solution.

K. Yildiz

This highly-rated Turkey forward has been in fine form for Juventus this season. As his current contract nearing its end, many English sides – such as Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool – are monitoring the situation. The Turin club are desperate to secure the youngster to a lengthy agreement but are in a battle to retain one of the continent's brightest young talents.

K. Smit

The highly-touted Netherlands teenage midfielder has earned comparisons to a Belgian superstar for his style of play. After impressing at the Under-19 European Championship, Smit has become a regular in the AZ Alkmaar side. The 19-year-old is widely expected to complete a major transfer this month. Newcastle United are believed to be leading the chase, but are facing stiff competition from Real Madrid for a signing priced at around twenty-two million pounds.