Premier League Clubs Circle World Cup Talent as Transfer Window Opens
With the World Cup in full swing, Premier League clubs are busy identifying targets. Here's who's catching the eye and which deals could be done.
Premier League Clubs Eye World Cup Stars Ahead of Summer Transfers
The World Cup has always served as the game's greatest talent showcase, and with 48 nations competing this time around, the pool of potential signings has never been deeper. As fans cheer on their national sides, club executives and scouts are watching just as closely — with transfer budgets and wish lists firmly in hand.
The window is now open, and discussions are already heating up. Here's a breakdown of the key players attracting Premier League attention.
James Trafford — Newcastle United's Goalkeeper Target
Newcastle United could make yet another move for Manchester City shot-stopper James Trafford, potentially their third attempt in three years. While Trafford didn't feature in England's opening match against Croatia, his pre-match admission that he needs to be a first-choice keeper at club level to secure the national team's top spot may work in Newcastle's favor. If the goalkeeper pushes for regular game time, St. James' Park could be his next destination.
Antonee Robinson — A Left-Back Option for Manchester United
Manchester United are reportedly considering Fulham's Antonee Robinson as a potential addition if they decide to strengthen the left side of their defense with a more defensively-minded player. The American international has been one of the USA's standout performers at the tournament, playing the full 90 minutes against Paraguay and 80 minutes in their clash with Australia.
Luka Vuskovic — Brighton Keen Despite Tottenham's Resistance
Brighton have already seen two bids knocked back for Tottenham's 19-year-old Croatian defender Luka Vuskovic. The teenager started Croatia's tournament opener against England in a three-man backline but was substituted just after the hour mark as Thomas Tuchel's England side took control. While Vuskovic wasn't solely at fault for Harry Kane's second goal — a free header — the youngster was closest to Kane and couldn't prevent the striker from getting a clean run. Brighton's persistence suggests they remain firmly interested despite Spurs holding firm.
Crystal Palace's Full-Back Dilemma
Crystal Palace head into the new season buoyed by their Conference League triumph and a fresh European campaign, but squad depth remains a pressing concern. Manager Pierre Sage — new to the role — will need reinforcements, particularly in the full-back positions.
Left-back Tyrick Mitchell is the only reliable senior option on that flank, while right-back Daniel Munoz, 30, had knee surgery last season and struggled to find his previous form afterward. Munoz is currently representing Colombia at the World Cup. The Eagles may need to bring in competition or cover for both positions before the season kicks off.
Everton's Interest in Wan-Bissaka and Spence
Everton are monitoring the right-back market closely, with West Ham and DR Congo's Aaron Wan-Bissaka and England's Djed Spence — currently at Tottenham — both on their radar. The right-back slot has been a recurring issue for the club, and the World Cup may offer an opportunity to assess these targets in high-pressure conditions.
Bournemouth's Measured Approach
Bournemouth are not expected to be as active in this window as they were in the summer of 2025, when multiple sales triggered a significant rebuild. However, the Cherries are in the market for a backup goalkeeper to support Djordje Petrovic, and a left-footed center-back to fill the void left by Marcos Senesi, whose move to Tottenham is set to be completed on July 1st.
While some media noise surrounds Alex Scott, Eli Junior Kroupi, and Rayan, no concrete offers have yet emerged. Additional business will likely depend on whether any key players are lured away this summer.
Leeds United Admire Ladislav Krejci
Leeds United's specific targets remain largely under wraps, but the club are known to be admirers of Czech center-back Ladislav Krejci. The defender spent last season on loan at Wolves from Girona and could be a realistic addition as Leeds look to bolster their defensive options.
Elliot Anderson — Record Fee Required
One of the most compelling transfer sagas of the window centers on Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson. The 23-year-old delivered a commanding performance in England's opening World Cup victory over Croatia, completing the full 90 minutes and playing a key role in Jude Bellingham's decisive second-half goal — an assist that underlined his growing importance to the national side.
Since Thomas Tuchel took charge in January 2025, Anderson has won the ball 78 times — 51 more than Declan Rice, the next player on that list. Forest have already turned down Manchester City's second offer of £120 million, and Anderson's World Cup showing may have added another £10 million to his valuation. The club are understood to be holding out for a fee that would set a new record for a British player.
Nottingham Forest's Transfer Plans
Despite the Anderson speculation, Nottingham Forest are not looking to replicate last season's mammoth near-£200 million spending spree. The club intend to make targeted additions rather than wholesale changes, suggesting a more strategic approach to squad building this summer.
