As the summer transfer window approaches, excitement builds around several top talents who could be on the move this season. The Premier League will see two transfer windows this summer due to a unique registration period related to the expanded Club World Cup. The first window opens on June 1 and closes on June 10, then reopens from June 16 until September 1. Here’s a look at 10 key players whose futures are the subject of intense speculation.
Joan García (Espanyol)
The 24-year-old goalkeeper has been impressive throughout the season and was part of Spain’s gold-medal-winning Olympic squad last summer. García made history by winning La Liga’s save of the month award twice consecutively. With a release clause of €25 million (£21 million), he has attracted attention from clubs including Arsenal, Barcelona, Aston Villa, Newcastle, and Inter Milan. Arsenal appears to be leading the chase, though García may initially serve as a backup to David Raya.
Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace)
The England international defender is entering the final year of his contract with Crystal Palace. After several high-profile bids from Newcastle and Tottenham were rejected last year, Guéhi remains a hot commodity. Liverpool and Chelsea have also been linked with moves for the 24-year-old. Palace face the dilemma of either cashing in this summer or risking losing him on a free transfer next year, especially after Guéhi helped lead them to the FA Cup final.
Jobe Bellingham (Sunderland)
The talented teenager could be heading out of Sunderland after another promising season. He has reportedly held talks with Eintracht Frankfurt, who will play in the Champions League next season, as well as Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig. Sunderland are determined to keep hold of Bellingham, but a fee over €30 million (£25 million) will likely be required. Birmingham City, his former club, is also entitled to a sell-on fee.
Hugo Ekitike (Eintracht Frankfurt)
Ekitike has demonstrated his scoring prowess, with 22 goals in 48 appearances this season and a standout hat-trick for France’s Under-21s. The 22-year-old striker, who began his career at Reims, is reportedly priced at over £80 million. Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United are among the clubs showing interest, though his asking price may deter many potential buyers.
Jonathan David (Lille)
The Canadian forward’s contract at Lille expires this summer, and he has confirmed his departure. Napoli appears to be leading the race to sign David after several rounds of negotiations. Premier League sides Aston Villa, Tottenham, and West Ham, along with Juventus, have also expressed interest. David has openly stated his ambition to play in the Premier League, which could shape his next move.
Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United)
The young Argentine forward is considered one of Manchester United’s promising academy graduates but may be allowed to leave this summer. Garnacho is expected to command around £40 million, with Napoli, who previously tried to sign him in January, reportedly leading the pursuit. Chelsea is also monitoring his situation closely.
Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)
Brentford’s forward, who scored 20 Premier League goals this season, remains a valuable asset. With a year left on his contract plus an option to extend, the club will demand around £60 million for Mbeumo. Manchester United and Newcastle are considered the most likely destinations for the 25-year-old striker.
Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig)
Sesko, the 21-year-old Slovenian striker, is seeking a club that suits his style and can help him develop further. Arsenal has been linked with the player ever since he was first spotted by Mikel Arteta at Red Bull Salzburg. Despite a dip in his goal tally this season, Sesko fits the profile of a striker the Gunners need. Chelsea has also shown interest and may try to intervene if Arsenal’s pursuit stalls.
Rayan Cherki (Lyon)
Once viewed as a controversial figure in French football, Cherki has matured significantly and earned his first senior call-up for France. Manchester City is interested in the 22-year-old winger, potentially as a replacement for Kevin De Bruyne. Cherki is available for around €30 million (£22 million), but his preference for Champions League football could limit his options, possibly ruling out moves to some Premier League clubs.
Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao)
The younger Williams brother has stepped out of his sibling’s shadow with strong performances, including scoring the opening goal in the Euro 2024 final and earning man of the match honors. Having helped Athletic Bilbao win the Copa del Rey, the 22-year-old winger has attracted attention from major clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Arsenal, and Chelsea. His contract includes a €58 million (£49 million) release clause, and he still has two years remaining.
This summer promises to be an exciting period in the transfer market, with many promising players potentially changing clubs and reshaping the football landscape ahead of the new season.
