Transfer Deadline Day 2026: Which Moves Might Still Happen?
The summer transfer window opened on June 15, yet many Premier League clubs are rushing to seal key deals before the 23:00 BST deadline on Tuesday. High-profile players like Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Cody Gakpo, and Ismaila Sarr could still change teams. The clock is ticking for these potential transfers.
Julian Alvarez’s Future: Barcelona or Arsenal?
Julian Alvarez, who helped Argentina reach the World Cup final, faces an uncertain future at Atletico Madrid. The 26-year-old striker wants to leave, but Atletico refuses to sell him to Barcelona. Instead, they might accept a deal from Arsenal. The Gunners have shown long-standing interest, watching closely as Atletico demands around 150 million euros (£128m). Alvarez has missed recent training and games, with manager Simeone saying he was unwell but also trying to keep the player motivated.
Enzo Fernandez Linked with Manchester City
After missing Manchester City’s win over Brighton, Enzo Fernandez's future is unclear. City, needing midfield reinforcements after losing several key players, are interested in the Argentina midfielder. Any deal would likely break club records, surpassing the £116m spent on Elliot Anderson this summer.
Lamine Camara Could Join Chelsea
If Fernandez departs, Lamine Camara from Monaco might move to Chelsea as his replacement. Chelsea are busy, potentially making their 13th signing amid over 30 player exits this summer, aiming to beat last season’s Premier League player sales record of £300m. Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds players like Mykhailo Mudryk, Pedro Neto, Tosin Adarabioyo, and others who could leave Stamford Bridge soon.
Cody Gakpo: Man City or Tottenham?
Cody Gakpo has attracted attention from both Manchester City and Tottenham. City have approached Liverpool, offering around £80m, and Gakpo prefers City. Yet Liverpool only want to let him go if they sign another attacker besides Bradley Barcola. With the deal close to falling through, Liverpool might keep Gakpo unless they find a replacement winger before Tuesday’s deadline.
Ismaila Sarr Targeted by Liverpool
With uncertainty over Gakpo, Liverpool shifted focus to Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr. They tried twice to buy Yankuba Minteh from Brighton but were rebuffed. Palace also rejected Liverpool’s enquiry about Sarr. The Senegal winger has scored 23 goals in 81 appearances, playing mainly on the right flank.
Richarlison and Iliman Ndiaye Swap Between Everton and Tottenham
Iliman Ndiaye is close to moving from Everton to Tottenham, while Richarlison looks set to return to Everton. Ndiaye’s move isn’t guaranteed though, with Manchester City also interested. Everton want to sell the 26-year-old after contract talks failed and a summer chat with Saudi club Al-Hilal. Richarlison is eager to leave Spurs, having told their coach Roberto de Zerbi several times.
Jack Grealish Near Loan Move to Everton
Jack Grealish may return to Everton on loan from Manchester City. Talks are progressing but complicated by contract issues; Grealish is in his final year at City. He prefers Everton, where he played last season on loan, over a possible return to Aston Villa.
Matias Fernandez-Pardo on Newcastle's Radar
Matias Fernandez-Pardo, a versatile 21-year-old forward from Lille, could be Newcastle’s next signing. Manager Matthias Jaissle left Fernandez-Pardo out of Lille’s squad and training ahead of the PSG match, signaling a possible exit. Newcastle values young, adaptable players like him and aims to strengthen its attack.
Joshua Zirkzee Likely to Leave Manchester United for Juventus
Joshua Zirkzee might be Manchester United’s main deadline-day departure. Fiorentina wanted him on loan but no agreement was reached. Juventus shows strong interest, contingent on Jonathan David’s move to Atletico Madrid. If Zirkzee leaves, United may look to add a left-back or forward, possibly via loan.
- Key players linked to moves: Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Lamine Camara, Cody Gakpo, Ismaila Sarr, Iliman Ndiaye, Richarlison, Jack Grealish, Matias Fernandez-Pardo, Joshua Zirkzee
- Notable clubs involved: Arsenal, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham, Everton, Newcastle, Manchester United, Juventus
- Deadline: Tuesday, 23:00 BST
