Transfer Deadline Day 2026: Key Moves Still Possible Before Window Closes

The summer transfer window opened on June 15, yet many Premier League clubs remain busy trying to finalize crucial deals before Tuesday's 23:00 BST deadline. Players like Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Cody Gakpo, and Ismaila Sarr might still find new teams. With time running out, these transfers could shake up squads significantly.

Julian Alvarez: Barcelona or Arsenal?

Julian Alvarez, 26, is caught in a tug of war between his desire to leave Atletico Madrid and the club’s refusal to sell him to Barcelona. Atletico are open to selling to Arsenal, who have long tracked Alvarez and are reportedly prepared to pay around €150m (£128m). Alvarez has missed training sessions and recently sat out a match against Sevilla, with coach Simeone claiming he was unwell but trying to keep his spirits high for when he returns.

Enzo Fernandez Heading to Manchester City?

Enzo Fernandez did not feature in Manchester City's recent win over Brighton, sparking speculation about a move. The Argentine midfielder, who worked under Enzo Maresca at Chelsea, could fill gaps left by departures such as Rodri and Bernardo Silva. This transfer would likely break the club’s record fee, exceeding the £116m spent on Elliot Anderson earlier this summer.

Lamine Camara to Chelsea?

If Fernandez departs, Chelsea may bring in Lamine Camara from Monaco. The Senegal international has already earned 49 caps and could become Chelsea's 13th signing this window amid more than 30 player exits. Meanwhile, players like Mykhailo Mudryk seek loan moves, and futures of Pedro Neto and Tosin Adarabioyo remain uncertain. Youngsters such as Dario Essugo, Deivid Washington, and Shim Mheuka might also leave.

Cody Gakpo: Man City or Tottenham?

Manchester City have opened talks with Liverpool for attacker Cody Gakpo, who favors City. Yet Liverpool will only approve the sale if they secure another forward beyond Bradley Barcola. Tottenham is also interested, but City's offer of about £80m and Gakpo’s preference puts them ahead. The deal now risks collapse unless Liverpool can sign a replacement winger before the deadline.

Ismaila Sarr to Liverpool?

With Gakpo’s future uncertain, Liverpool have shifted focus to Crystal Palace's winger Ismaila Sarr. The Senegalese forward has scored 23 goals in 81 appearances for his country. Liverpool’s two bids for Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh were rejected, and Palace initially rebuffed Liverpool’s approach for Sarr last week. Whether Palace revisit negotiations remains unclear.

Richarlison and Iliman Ndiaye Swap Between Everton and Tottenham

Tottenham are close to signing Iliman Ndiaye from Everton, while Richarlison appears set to return to Everton. Although the Ndiaye transfer is largely agreed, interest from clubs like Manchester City casts uncertainty. Ndiaye, 26, turned down contract offers and held talks with Saudi club Al-Hilal. Everton have reached terms to re-sign Richarlison after he expressed his desire to leave Spurs multiple times.

Jack Grealish Nears Loan Return to Everton

Everton hope to complete a loan deal for Jack Grealish from Manchester City. Despite complex terms due to Grealish entering the final year of his contract, he prefers returning to Everton over Aston Villa, who also showed interest. Last season, Grealish scored twice and assisted six times in 20 appearances for Everton.

Matias Fernandez-Pardo on Newcastle’s Radar

Newcastle United boss Matthias Jaissle continues to push for signings after bringing in Nico Gonzalez. The club targets Lille’s Matias Fernandez-Pardo, a versatile 21-year-old forward who debuted for Belgium in June and was part of their World Cup squad. Fernandez-Pardo was excluded from Lille’s recent squad and training, hinting at an imminent transfer despite the challenge of closing the deal late in the window.

Joshua Zirkzee Linked With Juventus

Manchester United seem poised to focus on moves involving Joshua Zirkzee after no breakthrough in talks over Marcus Rashford. Fiorentina wanted to loan Zirkzee with an option to buy, but United prefer a sale or loan with obligation. Juventus are now interested, contingent on Jonathan David’s departure to Atletico Madrid. If Zirkzee leaves, United might reinforce their attack or defense, probably with loan deals.

Key Transfer Targets and Current Status

• Julian Alvarez: Atletico Madrid striker; Arsenal and Barcelona interested; Atletico asking €150m (£128m)
• Enzo Fernandez: Argentina midfielder linked with Manchester City; potential record fee transfer
• Lamine Camara: Midfielder from Monaco to Chelsea; possible replacement for Fernandez
• Cody Gakpo: Liverpool winger; Man City and Tottenham interested; £80m offer from City
• Ismaila Sarr: Crystal Palace winger; Liverpool interested after Minteh bids rejected
• Iliman Ndiaye: Everton forward; near move to Tottenham; Manchester City also interested
• Richarlison: Set to return to Everton from Tottenham
• Jack Grealish: Manchester City midfielder; likely loan back to Everton
• Matias Fernandez-Pardo: Lille forward; Newcastle target
• Joshua Zirkzee: Manchester United striker; Juventus interested