Traditionally, this time of the year is when teams focus on tying down their star players as the month falls in a sweet spot in between two transfer windows. With an added international break, clubs can dedicate sufficient time to the task of meeting agents and negotiating deals.
This is why there have been recent reports about Manchester United's contract dealings with David De Gea or questions about Daniel Sturridge's future at Liverpool. The De Gea situation is not as worrying as it may seem as the club are reported to have a year extension clause within his current contract that they can trigger next summer.
However, despite this, there are several players within the final months of their contract who will be able to open discussions with clubs in less than two months thanks to the Bosman rule.
Alphonse Areola
A remarkable turn of events saw Areola beat off competition from Kevin Trapp to secure the goalkeeper spot with PSG at the end of last season only to have Gianluigi Buffon arrive and provide a very different challenge. Trapp was shipped out on loan and Areola assumed the back-up role but he is out of contract this summer and will be sure to attract interest across Europe.
Declan Rice
Rice has earned widespread praise for his recent performances at West Ham but the contract saga lingers on with some speculation that it may be influencing his decision on who to represent internationally. Indeed, the club's hierarchy have made no secret of their desire to see him represent England. However, the regard he is held in hasn't, so far, transmitted to a decent contract proposal and Rice rejected the club's offer last summer.
Almamy Toure
The Monaco defender has been linked to both Fulham and Crytal Palace. He has had limited first-team opportunities so far this season.
David Luiz
The Brazilian international fell out of favour under previous Chelsea boss Antonio Conte but looks a man restored this season. The club have got a reserved policy in contract negotiations with players over 30 but were reported to be set to offer Luiz a new deal to reward his recent form. Thus far, no announcement has been made.
Cesc Fàbregas
Another player who has thrived under Maurizio Sarri and publicly expressed hope he would get a new contract.
Aaron Ramsey
The Welsh international saw Arsenal withdraw their contract offer this week and speaking on BBC, former club legend Ian Wright felt this was the correct call: "I have to stick with Arsenal, they have to make this kind of stance, the amount of players we've lost in this fashion." He seems destined to follow in the footsteps of Jack Wilshere and leave on a free.
Adrien Rabiot
The PSG talisman is reported to have recently turned down a third contract offer from the club with Barcelona and Chelsea circling. He would represent a remarkable free signing should the situation present itself.
Juan Mata
One of eleven Manchester United players in their last year of contract. The Spaniard previously endured a tetchy relationship with Jose Mourinho and his future may depend on how that situation develops this season.
Ander Herrera
The 29-year-old won the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year in 2017 but has yet to agree to a deal and was linked with his former club Athletic Bilbao this year.
Yacine Brahimi
Per the Manchester Evening News, Man United sent representatives to watch the Porto attacker this week. Brahimi could represent great value this January as he is out of contract at the end of the season.
Iker Muniain
Last season the 25-year-old ruptured his cruciate ligament but returned to action earlier this year and scored a superb goal against Villareal. Usually operates on the left wing or as a second striker.
