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And that’s it — another January transfer window has come and gone. While it was relatively quiet in terms of blockbuster deals, the calm could be the prelude to a summer filled with major moves and surprises in the 2026 transfer market.

From world-class stars to rising youngsters and potential free agents, numerous high-profile footballers are expected to be on the move when the window reopens in June. And with the World Cup taking place in North America, several breakout performers could further shake up the market.

So, who are the players likely to dominate the headlines this summer? Here’s a look at 20 names whose futures could define the 2026 summer transfer window.

Karim Adeyemi (Borussia Dortmund)

Since changing representation to Jorge Mendes in August, Karim Adeyemi’s intention to leave Borussia Dortmund has been clear. The German forward has since been linked with a number of elite European clubs. Manchester United, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Tottenham and Napoli are among those interested. With less than 18 months remaining on his contract at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund could look to sell the 24-year-old at a reduced price.

Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid)

Julian Alvarez’s immediate focus will be helping Argentina defend their World Cup title, but Atletico Madrid are preparing for potential offers for their star striker. Barcelona view Alvarez as an ideal successor to Robert Lewandowski, while Arsenal also remain interested after Viktor Gyokeres’ underwhelming season. Atletico are expected to demand more than €100 million (£86m/$118m) for the 26-year-old.

Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest)

Elliot Anderson could experience a career-defining summer. After forming a strong midfield partnership with Declan Rice for England, the Nottingham Forest midfielder is tipped to be one of the World Cup’s breakout stars. Manchester United and Manchester City are monitoring his progress, though a fee of around £100m ($137m) may be required to lure him away from the City Ground. Given his potential, that investment might prove worthwhile.

Carlos Baleba (Brighton)

Carlos Baleba nearly left Brighton last summer when Manchester United showed strong interest. Although his performances have dipped slightly since, the 22-year-old Cameroon international remains a sought-after prospect. United are still keen, especially as they search for Casemiro’s replacement. The Seagulls, however, may not be able to demand the same £115m ($157.5m) price tag as before.

Ayyoub Bouaddi (Lille)

Ayyoub Bouaddi, one of France’s brightest young talents, made headlines last season with dominant Champions League performances against Real Madrid and Juventus at just 17. Now 18, the midfielder has attracted interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United. Lille persuaded him to sign a new contract in December, but that was largely to increase his transfer value.

Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig)

A year ago, Yan Diomande had yet to make his senior debut. Now, after a stunning rise, the 19-year-old Ivory Coast winger is one of the Bundesliga’s standout performers. RB Leipzig expect to earn around €100m (£86m/$118m) from his sale, having paid just €20m last summer. Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool have all shown interest, with Diomande himself admitting childhood affection for Liverpool.

Ederson (Atalanta)

After his standout display in the 2024 Europa League final, Ederson’s departure from Atalanta seems inevitable. Atletico Madrid nearly signed him in January and remain favourites for the €50m (£43m/$59m)-rated Brazilian midfielder, though both Manchester clubs are also considering him for their midfield rebuilds.

Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)

Bruno Fernandes is on course to challenge the record for most assists in a Premier League season, yet this could be his final campaign at Old Trafford. Despite rejecting Al-Hilal’s approach last summer, Saudi interest persists. Another £100m ($137m) offer could soon arrive as the Saudi Pro League continues its push for global stars during the World Cup year.

Leon Goretzka (Bayern Munich)

Leon Goretzka will be among the top free agents this summer after Bayern Munich confirmed he would not renew his contract. The 31-year-old, who has played nearly 300 matches for the club, could be an attractive option for teams seeking an experienced midfield presence.

Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool)

Ibrahima Konate’s future remains uncertain as he approaches the end of his contract. Liverpool hope to extend his stay, though Real Madrid’s interest has cooled after a mixed season. Regardless, the 27-year-old defender is likely to attract offers given his experience at the highest level.

Tino Livramento (Newcastle)

If Newcastle fail to qualify for the Champions League, they may need to sell key players to comply with financial regulations. Tino Livramento could be among those to depart, with Manchester City and Arsenal reportedly interested. However, his injury record could influence any potential deal.

Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace)

Jean-Philippe Mateta almost left Crystal Palace in January, with Nottingham Forest and AC Milan both pursuing him. However, a failed medical halted the move. Now back at Selhurst Park, the 28-year-old French striker still appears set to move on, especially with Jorgen Strand Larsen already brought in as his replacement.

Rodrigo Mora (Porto)

Rodrigo Mora, one of the most promising young players in world football, turned down a move to Al-Ittihad last summer to stay with Porto. The 18-year-old attacking midfielder has been linked with PSG, Manchester United and Arsenal. His contract includes a €70m (£60.5m/$83m) release clause, and his 15 goals in just over 60 appearances highlight his immense potential.

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool appears to be nearing its end. Despite reconciling with manager Arne Slot after tensions in December, the Egyptian star is expected to leave this summer. With just one year left on his contract, this is Liverpool’s last chance to secure a major fee. Saudi Arabian clubs remain eager to sign one of the most iconic Arab footballers in history.

Savinho (Manchester City)

Savinho was close to leaving Manchester City last summer amid Tottenham’s interest. Although he stayed, the 21-year-old Brazilian has struggled for playing time, especially following Antoine Semenyo’s arrival. Spurs could now revive their pursuit in search of attacking reinforcements.

Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund)

With his contract expiring in 2027 and no extension in sight, Nico Schlotterbeck could leave Borussia Dortmund in 2026 to avoid a free exit. Bayern Munich were once favourites to sign him, but that move now seems unlikely after Dayot Upamecano renewed his deal. Liverpool and Real Madrid are potential destinations for the 26-year-old German defender.

Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid)

Vinicius Jr could be at the centre of the summer’s biggest transfer story. Linked with a move to Saudi Arabia for over a year, tensions with Xabi Alonso intensified the rumours late last year. Since Alonso’s departure in January, the Brazilian has shown renewed commitment, even kissing the club badge after scoring. Still, with Kylian Mbappe now leading Real Madrid’s attack and young talents like Endrick and Franco Mastantuono emerging, Vinicius may consider a lucrative move abroad before a possible future return to Europe.

Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus)

Dusan Vlahovic’s time at Juventus could be coming to an end. Signed for €70m in January 2022, the Serbian striker has netted 64 goals in 162 games but has fallen down the pecking order. Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Tottenham are all monitoring his situation as he seeks a fresh challenge at 26.

Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)

Crystal Palace supporters are no strangers to losing star players, and Adam Wharton could be the next to depart. With Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi gone, and Jean-Philippe Mateta likely to follow, the 21-year-old midfielder is attracting interest from Real Madrid, Manchester United and Liverpool. Palace, however, will demand a high fee given Wharton still has three years left on his contract.

Harry Wilson (Fulham)

Harry Wilson has thrived in what could be his final season with Fulham. The Welsh midfielder has produced one of his best campaigns yet, ranking among the Premier League’s top contributors in goals and assists. With his contract expiring this summer, Wilson, 29, could be one of the more intriguing free agents available.