A group of 16 footballers could use the 2026 World Cup to attract the attention of Europe's biggest clubs. According to ESPN FC, these players seeking international exposure could see their value skyrocket after the tournament.
Among the names mentioned are attackers such as the Argentine Julián Álvarez, already courted by several Premier League clubs, as well as the Dutchman Xavi Simons, whose performances for club and country could attract interest from Bayern Munich or Real Madrid. Midfielders are also well represented: Moroccan Azzedine Ounahi, who shone at the 2022 World Cup, could draw interest from Italian or Spanish clubs.
The defenders are also prominent on this list. Brazilian Endrick, the rising star of Palmeiras, is one of the most sought-after. His technical profile and ability to play in attack or midfield could make him a priority target for clubs like Chelsea or Arsenal. Senegalese left-back Ismail Jakobs, a versatile player, is also on the radar of several European teams.
Goalkeepers are not spared either. Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa, already a starter at FC Porto, could see his stock rise after the World Cup, with clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool lurking. Frenchman Brice Samba, who plays for Lens, could also use the tournament to attract the attention of scouts.
European clubs, in search of talent to strengthen their squads, are closely monitoring these players. Some, like Spaniard Pedri, already a star at FC Barcelona, may stay at their current club, but others, less established, could take their careers to the next level. Their performances at the 2026 World Cup will be crucial to their future.
Observers note that English clubs, traditionally active in the transfer market, could be the most aggressive. The Premier League, with its high purchasing power, remains a sought-after destination for these young talents. German and Italian clubs, in search of renewal, could also take an interest in these profiles.
African players, often underestimated on the international stage, could make their mark. Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, already tracked by several top clubs, could see his value rise even further after the World Cup. Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus, on the rise at Ajax Amsterdam, is also a serious candidate for a move to a top club.
South American clubs, such as Flamengo or River Plate, could lose some of their star players after the World Cup. Players like Colombian winger Luis Díaz, already courted by Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool, could leave South America for Europe. Clubs like Paris Saint-Germain or Inter Milan could also bolster their squads with South American talent.
Performance for their national teams will be crucial. A player like Belgian winger Johan Bakayoko, in fine form at PSV Eindhoven, could use the World Cup to establish himself as an undisputed starter at a big club. Clubs like Manchester City under Pep Guardiola or Real Madrid under Carlo Ancelotti could be interested in his profile.
Transfers could accelerate as early as the summer of 2026, with negotiations potentially beginning even before the end of the World Cup. Agents and clubs are already in contact to prepare the ground. The players, for their part, will need to perform to justify their value and convince scouts.
