World Cup Stars Likely to Switch Clubs This Summer
The World Cup is nearing its conclusion, and attention is shifting towards the upcoming 2026-27 club season. Many players who performed well in North America might be on the move during this summer's transfer window.
Some big names like Marc Cucurella, Elliot Anderson, and Youri Tielemans have already secured new deals, but several others could follow. Here's a look at nine World Cup stars who might change clubs soon and the teams interested in them.
Bradley Barcola
Among France’s striking options, Bradley Barcola has impressed throughout the tournament, sharing the spotlight with talents such as Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, and Ousmane Dembele. Barcola played in all seven of France’s matches, starting four times and scoring twice — first against Senegal and then Sweden.
At just 23, Barcola had a strong season at PSG, helping them claim a second straight Champions League trophy and featuring 49 times across competitions. Yet, he often plays second fiddle to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia under coach Luis Enrique. This situation has attracted interest from major Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Arsenal, with Arsenal reportedly considering him as an alternative to another target, Rogers.
Ayyoub Bouaddi
Only 18 years old, Ayyoub Bouaddi became the second-youngest player ever to appear in a World Cup quarter-final, behind only Pelé. He stood out for Morocco, orchestrating play with a maturity beyond his years, notably overshadowing established midfielders like Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes in Morocco’s draw with Brazil.
Lille, his current club, is expected to fend off numerous offers this summer. Top clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain have all been linked with interest in Bouaddi.
Yan Diomande
The 19-year-old winger Yan Diomande showcased his talent during Ivory Coast’s World Cup run, despite their exit in the last 32 against Norway. Diomande earned man-of-the-match honors in Ivory Coast’s win over Ecuador and continued to impress even in defeat to Germany.
He has been on Liverpool’s radar for some time, but after they failed to meet RB Leipzig's valuation of around £100 million, other clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United have shown interest. Diomande reportedly favors a move to PSG.
Djed Spence
Djed Spence, England’s full-back, played through the World Cup with a chin brace due to a broken jaw sustained last season. His performances were mixed; criticized after the match against DR Congo but bouncing back strongly against Norway and Argentina.
Spence’s attacking runs and work rate have caught the attention of clubs amid Tottenham’s squad overhaul led by new coach Roberto de Zerbi. Liverpool, Everton, and Inter Milan are among those reportedly interested in signing the former Middlesbrough player.
John Stones
John Stones made history as the first out-of-club player to represent England at a men’s World Cup, following the expiration of his Manchester City contract. Italian clubs like Juventus and Serie A champions Inter Milan are keen on acquiring him, with Leeds United also hoping to keep him in the Premier League.
Antonee Robinson
Born in Milton Keynes but raised in Liverpool, Antonee Robinson has built his club career entirely in England. The Fulham left-back was pivotal for the United States during their home World Cup run, starting in four of five games and playing the full 90 minutes in most.
Robinson's strong Premier League seasons have drawn interest from Manchester United, who may look to add him to their defensive options.
Julian Alvarez
Julian Alvarez, who helped Argentina reach the semi-finals with a crucial winner against Switzerland, has been thriving at Atletico Madrid since his 2024 transfer from Manchester City. Atletico has no intention of selling the 26-year-old striker, despite interest from clubs like Barcelona and Premier League champions Arsenal.
His 25 goals in 66 league appearances make him a highly sought-after attacker capable of boosting any front line.
Mikel Oyarzabal
Considered by some as a weak link before the tournament, Mikel Oyarzabal has defied expectations by netting five goals so far, including a penalty against France. The 29-year-old has a release clause near £65 million in his Real Sociedad contract.
Arsenal, Barcelona, and Juventus are all rumored to be interested. Whether Oyarzabal, a one-club man, will leave remains uncertain.
Zion Suzuki
Zion Suzuki impressed as Japan advanced to the last 32, famously making a fingertip save against Vinicius Junior of Brazil that stood out at the tournament. Newcastle has monitored the Parma goalkeeper, though they seem to prioritize signing England’s James Trafford. Leeds United has also been linked with Suzuki.
