World Cup Stars Poised for Summer Transfers Ahead of 2026-27 Season

Top World Cup Players Likely to Change Clubs This Summer

As the 2026 World Cup draws near its conclusion, focus shifts toward the upcoming 2026-27 club season and potential player transfers this summer. Some big names have already secured moves, such as Marc Cucurella, Elliot Anderson, and Youri Tielemans. Yet, several other stars could be on the move, spurred by their performances in North America.

Below are nine standout players from the World Cup who might switch clubs soon, along with possible destinations.

Bradley Barcola

A key part of France's potent attacking lineup, Barcola has impressed enough to stand out alongside Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, and Ousmane Dembele. He appeared in all seven matches for France, starting four, and scored twice—once against Senegal and again versus Sweden.

At club level, Barcola had a strong season with PSG, winning his second straight Champions League title and featuring in 49 games across competitions. Despite this, he is not guaranteed a starting spot at PSG, often behind Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in Luis Enrique's plans.

Interest is rising from Premier League heavyweights, with Liverpool and Arsenal reportedly keen on signing him. Arsenal views Barcola as an alternative to Rogers.

Ayyoub Bouaddi

The 18-year-old Bouaddi controlled Morocco's midfield masterfully, helping his nation reach the quarter-finals. His maturity belies his age, notably outplaying Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes during Morocco’s opening draw with Brazil.

Lille, his current club, expects a flood of offers this summer. Chelsea, having recently sold midfielder Andrey Santos, is among those interested. Other clubs tracking Bouaddi include Manchester City, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain.

Yan Diomande

At 19, winger Diomande shone during Ivory Coast's group stage run before their exit against Norway in the round of 32. He was named player of the match in the opening win over Ecuador and impressed despite defeat to Germany.

Liverpool have admired him for a while, but after failing to meet RB Leipzig's asking price around £100 million, interest has also come from PSG and Manchester United. Diomande reportedly prefers a move to the French champions.

Djed Spence

Spence, England’s full-back, faced a tough tournament, dealing with injuries and squad rotation issues. Despite criticism after the match against DR Congo, he returned strongly against Norway and Argentina. His energetic play and positive approach have drawn attention as Tottenham reshapes under Roberto de Zerbi.

Liverpool, Everton, and Inter Milan have expressed interest in the former Middlesbrough player.

John Stones

Defender Stones made history as the first unattached player to represent England at a men’s World Cup. With his Manchester City contract expired, he searches for a new club.

Italian giants Juventus and Serie A champions Inter Milan are both eyeing Stones. Meanwhile, Leeds United hopes to keep him in the Premier League.

Antonee Robinson

Although born in Milton Keynes and raised in Liverpool, left-back Robinson represents the United States. He was key in the US run to the last 16, starting four of five games and playing full matches in three.

Robinson's solid performances at Fulham have attracted interest from Manchester United.

Julian Alvarez

Alvarez played a pivotal role for Argentina, scoring a brilliant winner against Switzerland in the quarter-final. Since moving to Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in 2024, the 26-year-old striker has netted 25 goals in 66 league appearances.

Atletico want to keep him and have already rejected Barcelona's advances. Nonetheless, top European clubs continue to monitor Alvarez, with Premier League champions Arsenal linked to a potential transfer that would strengthen their attack.

Mikel Oyarzabal

Once doubted before the World Cup, Oyarzabal has scored five goals in the tournament so far, including a penalty against France, possibly adding more in the final against Argentina.

He reportedly has a £65 million release clause in his Real Sociedad contract. Interest comes from Arsenal, Barcelona, and Juventus, though it remains uncertain if the one-club man would leave.

Zion Suzuki

Japan’s goalkeeper Suzuki impressed despite Japan's exit in the round of 32. His fingertip save from Vinicius Junior late against Brazil stands out as one of the tournament’s best.

Newcastle have tracked Suzuki, though England’s James Trafford is reportedly their primary goalkeeping target. Leeds United has also shown interest.