With the 2026 FIFA World Cup entering its final stages, attention is already shifting to the European summer transfer window, where several standout performers are expected to attract interest from some of the world’s biggest clubs.
While several high-profile transfers have already been completed, including moves involving Marc Cucurella, Elliot Anderson and Youri Tielemans, several players who impressed in North America could also be on the move before the start of the 2026-27 season.
Sporting Tribune outlines eight World Cup stars to watch in this summer transfer window.
Bradley Barcola – France
France winger Bradley Barcola has enhanced his reputation with an impressive World Cup campaign, scoring twice and featuring in every match for Didier Deschamps’ side.
The 23-year-old enjoyed another successful season with Paris Saint-Germain, helping the French club retain the UEFA Champions League title. However, he is not a guaranteed starter under Luis Enrique, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia often preferred on the left wing.
ALSO READ: Countries to win back-to-back FIFA World Cups as Argentina eye history
That has fuelled speculation linking Barcola with Premier League clubs Arsenal and Liverpool, both reportedly monitoring his situation.
Ayyoub Bouaddi – Morocco
Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has emerged as one of the tournament’s brightest young talents.
At just 18, Bouaddi has displayed composure beyond his years, helping Morocco reach the quarter-finals and impressing against established midfielders such as Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes.
His performances have attracted reported interest from Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, although Lille are expected to demand a significant transfer fee.
Yan Diomande – Ivory Coast
RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande has strengthened his growing reputation despite Ivory Coast’s exit in the Round of 32.
The 19-year-old was one of his country’s standout performers during the group stage and was named Player of the Match after Ivory Coast’s opening victory over Ecuador.
Liverpool have long admired the versatile winger, while Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United have also been linked with a move.
Djed Spence – England
England defender Djed Spence endured a mixed tournament but finished strongly with solid displays against Norway and Argentina.
The Tottenham full-back is reportedly attracting interest as the London club reshapes its squad under new head coach Roberto De Zerbi.
Liverpool, Everton and Inter Milan have all been linked with the former Middlesbrough defender.
John Stones – England
John Stones enters the transfer market after leaving Manchester City at the end of his contract, becoming the first unattached player to represent England at a men’s FIFA World Cup.
Despite England’s semi-final exit, the experienced central defender remains an attractive option for several clubs.
Italian giants Juventus and Inter Milan have reportedly expressed interest, while Leeds United are also keen to bring the Yorkshire-born defender back to the Premier League.
Antonee Robinson – United States
United States left-back Antonee Robinson continued his impressive rise with another strong international tournament after helping the co-hosts reach the last 16.
The Fulham defender has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent full-backs over the past two seasons and is reportedly on Manchester United’s shortlist as they seek defensive reinforcements.
Julian Alvarez – Argentina
Julian Alvarez has continued his outstanding form by leading Argentina’s attack during their run to another World Cup final.
The striker has flourished since joining Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in 2024, scoring consistently in Spain.
Although Atletico have publicly insisted Alvarez is not for sale and have already rejected interest from Barcelona, Arsenal are among the clubs reportedly monitoring the Argentine international.
Mikel Oyarzabal – Spain
Spain forward Mikel Oyarzabal has silenced doubts about his role in the national team by emerging as one of the tournament’s leading scorers.
The Real Sociedad captain has scored five goals during Spain’s run to the World Cup final, further increasing speculation about his future.
Reports in Spain have linked the 29-year-old with Arsenal, Barcelona and Juventus, although the one-club player has yet to indicate any desire to leave Sociedad.
Transfer market expected to accelerate
With the World Cup concluding this weekend, European clubs are expected to intensify transfer negotiations before pre-season preparations begin.
Many clubs delayed major decisions until after the tournament to avoid disrupting players’ international commitments, but standout performances in the United States, Canada and Mexico are likely to influence recruitment plans.
The coming weeks are expected to determine whether the tournament’s biggest stars remain with their current clubs or begin the next chapter of their careers elsewhere.
