World Cup Stars Likely to Switch Clubs This Summer
As the 2026 World Cup draws to a close, attention shifts to the 2026-27 club season and the players who might be on the move during the summer transfer window. Some notable names like Marc Cucurella, Elliot Anderson, and Youri Tielemans have already sealed their deals. Yet, several transfers could still unfold, possibly influenced by performances at this tournament.
Bradley Barcola
A vital part of France’s attacking lineup, Barcola has impressed throughout the tournament, holding his own alongside stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, and Ousmane Dembele. Featuring in all seven matches, he scored twice - against Senegal and Sweden. Despite a strong season with PSG, including a second consecutive Champions League win, Barcola isn’t a guaranteed starter, often backing up Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Interest from top Premier League clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal has surfaced, with Arsenal viewing him as an alternative option to Rogers.
Ayyoub Bouaddi
At just 18 years old, Bouaddi stood out as Morocco’s midfield orchestrator during their run to the quarter-finals. His mature control of the game belies his age, notably overshadowing established midfielders like Casemiro in Morocco’s opening draw with Brazil. Lille, his current club, faces significant interest this summer. Top clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain are all reportedly tracking the teenager.
Yan Diomande
The 19-year-old winger was a bright spot for Ivory Coast before their last-32 exit against Norway. Diomande's performances helped Ivory Coast reach the knockout stage for the first time, earning player of the match honors against Ecuador and shining again versus Germany. Liverpool has admired the RB Leipzig player for some time, but with Leipzig valuing him near £100 million, PSG and Manchester United have joined the chase. Diomande is said to favor a move to the French side.
Djed Spence
Spence, England’s full-back, carried much of the defensive responsibility amid squad injuries and suspensions. Though criticized after the match against DR Congo, he bounced back with strong displays against Norway and Argentina. Tottenham, undergoing a major overhaul under Roberto de Zerbi, may lose Spence this summer. Liverpool, Everton, and Inter Milan are all linked with the former Middlesbrough defender.
John Stones
Stones made history as the first player without a club to represent England at a men’s World Cup, following the expiry of his Manchester City contract. Interest comes from Serie A giants Juventus and reigning champions Inter Milan, the latter also eyeing Spence. Meanwhile, Leeds United hope to retain the Yorkshire-born centre-back in the Premier League.
Antonee Robinson
Born in Milton Keynes but raised in Liverpool, Robinson has spent his entire club career in England. The Fulham left-back played a key role for the co-host United States team that reached the last 16. Robinson started four of the five games and put in solid performances, attracting interest from Manchester United.
Julian Alvarez
Argentine forward Alvarez shone in helping his country beat England in the semi-final. Since joining Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in 2024, he has netted 25 goals in 66 league appearances. Atletico want to keep hold of the 26-year-old and have rejected approaches from Barcelona, though Premier League champions Arsenal have been linked with a move for the striker.
Mikel Oyarzabal
Once considered a potential weak link in Spain’s attack, Oyarzabal has defied expectations by scoring five goals so far, including a penalty against France. With a release clause near £65 million in his Real Sociedad contract, clubs like Arsenal, Barcelona, and Juventus have shown interest. Whether he’ll leave his one-club career behind remains uncertain.
Zion Suzuki
Japan’s goalkeeper Suzuki earned praise despite their early exit in the last-32, with his fingertip save against Brazil's Vinicius Junior among the tournament’s highlights. Newcastle have kept tabs on the Parma keeper, though England’s James Trafford is reportedly their priority. Leeds United are also linked with Suzuki.
