16 Players Looking to…

The FIFA World Cup stands as the pinnacle of global sports, and with the 2026 tournament expanding to 48 teams, every player has a chance to shine on the largest stage they’ve ever encountered.

This grand event has the potential to elevate careers and fuel high-profile transfers, as the spotlight on standout players intensifies.

Take, for instance, the remarkable rise of James Rodríguez, who captured the World Cup Golden Boot in 2014 and secured a €75 million transfer to Real Madrid. Fast forward to 2018, and Kylian Mbappé, already a European sensation, became a global star through his contributions to France‘s successful campaign. Who will follow in their footsteps this time around?

We’ve identified 16 players, categorizing them into two groups: First, the young talents (aged 23 and under) heading into their inaugural World Cup, and second, established names who have previously claimed trophies but stand to gain a major transfer should they excel in the tournament.

Young Stars Who Could Shine

Yan Diomande, 19, FW, Ivory Coast

Club: RB Leipzig
Projected fee: €100 million
Potential destinations: Liverpool, PSG

Diomande made a notable impact during his debut season with RB Leipzig, contributing 20 goals and assists despite some absences for Africa Cup of Nations. He amazed fans with his dazzling dribbling and earned a reputation as the fifth-fastest player in the Bundesliga, clocking in at 34.85 km/h. Diomande is set to play left wing for the Ivory Coast, opposite Amad Diallo of Manchester United, but is also capable on the right, where he primarily played last season. Furthermore, he has expressed admiration for PSG.

Rayan, 19, FW, Brazil

Club: AFC Bournemouth
Projected fee: €80 million
Potential destinations: PSG, Liverpool, Arsenal, AC Milan

Rayan’s inclusion on the Brazilian squad raised eyebrows, especially with the absence of Chelsea‘s João Pedro. His impressive start at Bournemouth, which included seven goal contributions since his January transfer, bolstered his case. Even though reports cite a potential £130 million clause coming into play after his early move to the Premier League, a significant bid can’t be ruled out.

Caleb Yirenkyi, 20, CM, Ghana

Club: FC Nordsjaelland
Projected fee: €30 million
Potential destinations: Manchester United, Arsenal, Brighton

Yirenkyi’s transition to Europe has positioned him for a potential big move following consistent performances at Danish club FC Nordsjaelland. This all-action midfielder, praised for his box-to-box abilities, has also demonstrated versatility by playing in several positions. After impressing in Ghana’s recent match against Wales, he looks set to establish himself in playing in his favored midfield role.

Ayyoub Bouaddi, 18, CM, Morocco

Club: Lille
Projected fee: €60 million
Potential destinations: PSG, Arsenal, Bayern Munich

Bouaddi has quickly made a name for himself, having played two seasons in Ligue 2 and already being part of Morocco’s World Cup squad. Last summer, he drew interest from major clubs, but opted to focus on his development at Lille. This decision has paid off, as he now excels in ground and aerial duels, showcasing his passing ability and skill in crossing.

Ibrahim Maza, 20, CM, Algeria

Club: Bayer Leverkusen
Projected fee: €50 million
Potential destinations: Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal

In his debut season with Leverkusen, Maza played a significant role as a central figure in midfield, contributing both defensively and offensively. His reliable tackling and energetic movement have made him a vital player, while the presence of veteran teammate Riyad Mahrez has further elevated his experience.

Lucas Herrington, 18, CB, Australia

Club: Colorado Rapids
Projected fee: €10 million
Potential destinations: Everton, West Ham, RB Leipzig, Sporting CP

Herrington made waves by securing a position on the Colorado Rapids roster in MLS at just 18, followed by earning a spot on Australia’s World Cup team. If he showcases his abilities on the international stage, he could draw interest from European clubs looking for fresh talent at a reasonable price.

Víctor Muñoz, 22, FW, Spain

Club: Osasuna
Projected fee: €40 million
Potential destinations: Real Madrid, Barcelona, Newcastle, Aston Villa

Muñoz emerged as a standout for Osasuna following his transfer from Real Madrid, demonstrating agility and a knack for finishing. As he joins the Spain squad, his opportunity to make an impact increases, especially with injuries affecting key players like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams.

Established Stars Who Could Secure Major Moves

Enzo Fernández, 25, CM, Argentina

Club: Chelsea
Projected fee: €90 million
Potential destinations: Real Madrid, Manchester City

Fernández’s future at Chelsea is clouded after being sidelined by former coach Liam Rosenior and expressing interest in a transfer to Madrid. Despite still being under contract until 2032, interest from major clubs remains as his performances since winning the 2022 World Cup haven’t matched expectations. A standout showing in this World Cup could change that.

Rodri, 29, CM, Spain

Club: Manchester City
Projected fee: €60 million
Potential destinations: Real Madrid, Barcelona

Rodri is nearing the end of his contract at City, with Madrid showing interest. Despite struggling with injuries, he remains a key figure in the Spanish squad. A strong World Cup performance could influence not just his career, but the dynamics at City as they deal with recent offseason departures.

Aurélien Tchouaméni, 26, CM, France

Club: Real Madrid
Projected fee: €80 million
Potential destinations: Manchester United

If Rodri were to make a switch to Madrid, Tchouaméni’s situation could be affected, possibly leading to discussions about his future at the club. Following a reported incident with teammate Federico Valverde, Tchouaméni’s progression will be watched closely, especially with a strong tournament ahead.

Cristian Romero, 28, CB, Argentina

Club: Tottenham Hotspur
Projected fee: €60 million
Potential destinations: Atlético Madrid

Despite renewing his contract with Spurs, Romero is still a target for potential suitors. Performance issues could lead to renewed interest if he impresses this summer in the World Cup, particularly as Tottenham navigates a complex offseason.

Angelo Stiller, 25, CM, Germany

Club: VfB Stuttgart
Projected fee: €50 million
Potential destinations: Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Manchester United

Stiller’s influence in Stuttgart’s recent achievements solidifies his reputation, and his performance in Germany’s squad could set the stage for an impressive transfer outcome following the World Cup. His ability to feed the attack will not go unnoticed by top clubs seeking reinforcements.

Emiliano Martínez, 33, GK, Argentina

Projected fee: €25 million
Potential destinations: Atlético Madrid, Inter, Juventus, Chelsea

Martínez’s role could hinge on his performance in the World Cup after he opted to remain with Aston Villa despite transfer speculation. His continued contributions in guiding Argentina could prompt elite clubs to make a move for the goalkeeper.

Nico Schlotterbeck, 26, CB, Germany

Club: Borussia Dortmund
Projected fee: €50 million-€60 million
Potential destinations: Liverpool, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich

Despite fresh reports of a release clause in his contract, Schlotterbeck’s contributions as a left-footed center back make him a hot commodity. With Germany’s hopes riding on his performance in the World Cup, many clubs will be eyeing him closely for a potential transfer.

Gonçalo Inácio, 24, CB, Portugal

Club: Sporting CP
Projected fee: €60 million
Potential destinations: Barcelona, Manchester United

Inácio’s steady rise at Sporting CP has established him as a top left-footed center back, creating buzz around a potential big move. Playing alongside elite players in the Portuguese national setup could further enhance his profile.