Negotiations will also take into account players’ contracts at clubs, as some enter the final few months of their current deals.
That may allow clubs to sign players for a reduced fee, while some will be trying to agree new deals rather than losing assets on a free transfer.
According to Transfermarkt, here are the most valuable Championship players who are in the final year of their contracts.
It should be noted that some clubs have options to extend player's contracts - often by a further year.
5. (21st) Lucas Joao (Reading)
It was claimed Reading were open to selling the 29-year-old striker in the summer as he entered the final year of his contract. They may also have a decision to make in January if an offer is made. Photo: Clive Rose
6. (20th) Joe Bursik (Stoke) - Club option to extend
While the goalkeeper’s contract is set to expire at the end of this season, it’s been reported that Stoke automatically have an option to extend his deal beyond the summer. Photo: Gareth Copley
7. (19th) Sam Byram (Norwich)
After joining Norwich in 2019, the full-back was sidelined for over a year due to multiple injury setbacks. Byram, 29, has made 11 Championship appearances for The Canaries this season and is nearing the end of a four-year deal. Photo: Getty Images
8. (18th) Chiedozie Ogbene (Rotherham)
Rotherham’s top scorer is one of five Millers players who will be out of contract this summer. There have been reports the 25-year-old could be sold in January to avoid him leaving for free in the summer. Photo: George Wood