10 World Cup Stars Likely to Transfer This Summer After Shining in North America

World Cup Performances Spark Transfer Frenzy

The World Cup often changes the trajectory of players' careers, offering a stage where standout performances attract widespread attention. The 2026 tournament, the largest ever, has showcased more players than before, catching the eyes of clubs worldwide.

Newcastle recently agreed to pay £51.5 million ($69 million) for Johan Manzambi from Freiburg, a versatile 20-year-old who helped Switzerland reach the quarter-finals. But several other players might also be on the move after impressive displays.

Elijah Just (New Zealand)

Motherwell may not rush to sell Elijah Just, who joined them last summer from Horsens, but the New Zealand winger’s value has soared after scoring three World Cup goals. With seven goals in his debut season at Fir Park, he now attracts interest from Celtic and Ligue 1’s Toulouse, potentially fetching around £4 million—a significant rise from his initial transfer fee.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi (South Africa)

Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s agent, Basia Michaels, revealed multiple inquiries from top clubs. The 20-year-old Chicago Fire defender played every minute of South Africa’s historic run to the knockout stage. Clubs like Napoli and Nottingham Forest have shown interest, with hopes to see him in one of Europe’s top five leagues.

Tarik Muharemovic (Bosnia & Herzegovina)

Before the World Cup, Inter Milan and Juventus showed interest in centre-back Tarik Muharemovic. Juventus sold him to Sassuolo last year but retained a 50 percent sell-on clause. Sassuolo raised their asking price after his strong tournament performance, drawing Premier League attention from clubs like Sunderland. Muharemovic seems keen on moving to Milan, yet financial factors could send him elsewhere.

Julian Quinones (Mexico)

Julian Quinones earned the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot last season with 33 goals in 31 games. He scored in four of Mexico’s five World Cup matches, raising his profile for a possible Premier League move. Though he recently extended his contract with Al-Qadsiah, the club can demand a hefty fee. Quinones is reportedly eager to test himself in England.

Gilberto Mora (Mexico)

Seventeen-year-old Gilberto Mora caught attention after impressing late in Mexico's group stage. Liverpool lead the chase, but competition comes from Manchester City, Arsenal, Barcelona, and Real Madrid. Despite being a raw talent, Mora’s potential might command a €40 million fee.

Antonio Nusa (Norway)

Erling Haaland stole headlines, but Antonio Nusa also impressed with Norway. Tottenham avoided signing him in January but plan to make a formal offer to RB Leipzig now. Arsenal might try to intervene, aiming to replicate their previous success by acquiring talent before rivals.

Crysencio Summerville (Netherlands)

West Ham’s clearout continues as Crysencio Summerville is expected to follow Matheus Fernandes out the door. The Dutch winger increased his value with dynamic World Cup displays, involved directly in four goals despite limited starts. Liverpool and Fulham are among those linked with a £50 million transfer.

Ayyoub Bouaddi (Morocco)

Eighteen-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi stunned many with his composed performance against Brazil. The Lille midfielder has long been tipped for the top, and now Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United all show strong interest. He started four of Morocco’s five matches, signaling readiness for a major step up.

Bruno Guimaraes (Brazil)

Bruno Guimaraes’ World Cup ended with a missed penalty in Brazil’s last-16 exit, but his influence was clear. The Newcastle captain provided four assists during the tournament. Arsenal are eager to sign him as he looks to leave St. James Park, though Newcastle’s asking price is around £80 million.

Yan Diomande (Ivory Coast)

Yan Diomande’s World Cup performance erased doubts about his ability at the highest level. Although he didn’t score, his pace and skill stood out. Liverpool were favorites to sign the 19-year-old before the tournament, but now Paris Saint-Germain appears to be the destination. Leipzig wants to keep him another year but expects a nine-figure transfer fee this summer.