As the 2025/26 Premier League season approaches, top-flight clubs are already diving into the transfer market with urgency—spurred on by preparations for the expanded FIFA Club World Cup. With the window officially open, attention has quickly turned to some of the most sought-after names in European football. Here are five standout players whose futures could define the summer transfer saga.
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1. Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen) – Liverpool’s Record-Breaking Target
Liverpool are wasting no time reinforcing their squad under new manager Arne Slot, and all eyes are on Florian Wirtz. The 21-year-old German sensation played a crucial role in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double, as well as their Europa League final run under Xabi Alonso.
Now, the playmaker is reportedly pushing for a move to Anfield—one that could break the Premier League transfer record. Liverpool have already seen a £109 million ($147 million) bid rejected, with Leverkusen holding out for £125 million. If completed, the deal would surpass the £115 million Chelsea paid for Moises Caicedo in 2023. Liverpool have already secured Jeremie Frimpong from Leverkusen, but landing Wirtz would be the true statement of intent.
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2. Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) – Big Decision Looms at Old Trafford
Manchester United endured a dismal campaign, their worst in over five decades. Now, club captain Bruno Fernandes could be heading for the exit. Saudi giants Al Hilal are prepared to offer £100 million for the Portuguese midfielder, who turns 30 this year. The move would not only make Fernandes one of the world’s highest-paid players but also hand United a significant financial boost.
While Fernandes has openly admitted he’s open to what the club decides, losing their most consistent attacking contributor—19 goals and 19 assists last season—would be a huge blow. For new boss Ruben Amorim, the sale might offer resources to revamp the team, but replacing Fernandes’ creativity won’t be easy.
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3. Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford) – Manchester United’s Forward Fix?
As United seek attacking reinforcements, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has emerged as a priority target. The French-born Cameroon international thrived in a leading role last season, netting 20 goals and stepping up in the absence of Ivan Toney.
Mbeumo’s dynamic play and eye for goal have drawn interest from Arsenal, Newcastle, and Tottenham. However, Old Trafford is reportedly his preferred destination. With Matheus Cunha already secured from Wolves, United could look to pair him with Mbeumo in a revamped front line.
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4. Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting Lisbon) – Arsenal’s Answer Up Front?
After a record-breaking 54-goal season for Sporting Lisbon, Viktor Gyokeres is attracting serious interest from Premier League clubs. Arsenal are leading the chase, with manager Mikel Arteta desperate for a reliable goal-scorer to end the club’s trophy drought.
The 26-year-old Swede has a £84 million buyout clause, though reports suggest Sporting might settle for around £60 million. Despite his success in Portugal and six goals in eight Champions League games, there are concerns about whether Gyokeres can replicate his form in the English top flight. His previous stint with Brighton yielded little, but this version of Gyokeres is a different proposition entirely.
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5. Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace) – Premier League Heavyweights Circle
Eberechi Eze became a Crystal Palace legend after scoring the decisive goal in their FA Cup final win over Manchester City—securing the club’s first major trophy. Now, the 26-year-old playmaker is on the radar of several top clubs.
Manchester City are reportedly eyeing Eze as a potential long-term successor to Kevin De Bruyne, while Arsenal and Tottenham are also closely monitoring his situation. With a £68 million release clause in his contract, a bidding war could easily ensue for one of England’s most technically gifted midfielders.
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With blockbuster fees and big-name moves already being discussed, the 2025 summer transfer window is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Keep an eye on these five stars—each of them could become a headline story before the new season kicks off.