Starting XI of top footballers linked with summer moves

Plenty more action is expected

Preseason is well under way and most clubs are now fully immersed in transfer business ahead of the 2025-26 season. A host of well‑known players have already changed clubs, but plenty more action is expected in the market.

Moves on the horizon

Here is a starting eleven of those widely reported to be on the verge of a move, according to Transfermarkt talk.

RB: Axel Disasi (Chelsea to Villarreal)

Having failed to make an impression on loan at Aston Villa last season, the versatile French defender looks set for the Stamford Bridge exit door this summer. Villarreal could provide the perfect platform for him to rebuild his reputation.

CB: Cristian Romero (Tottenham to Atlético Madrid)

The combative Argentinian centre-back is rumoured to be a target for Atlético Madrid, who value his aggressive playing style. His no-nonsense approach would suit Diego Simeone's side perfectly, adding a bit of South American steel to their backline.

CB: Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace to Liverpool)

With Liverpool having sold Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen, the Reds need a homegrown player at the heart of their defence. Guéhi has been identified as a target, but with the centre-back entering the final year of his Palace contract, will Liverpool wait to swoop next summer and get him for free?

LB: Jorrel Hato (Ajax to Chelsea or Liverpool)

The versatile left-sided defender is one of the biggest up-and-coming talents on the market right now. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that Chelsea, with their policy of chasing young talent, should be sniffing around. Liverpool are reportedly waiting in the wings, too.

CM: Douglas Luiz (Juventus to West Ham or Everton)

The Brazilian's time in Italy hasn't exactly gone to plan. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that he's looking to return to the Premier League, but are the likes of West Ham and Everton the level he's looking for? Liverpool are also credited with an interest...

CM: Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest to Tottenham)

Though Spurs have reportedly triggered Gibbs-White's release clause, the attacking midfielder remains at Forest for pre-season as owner Angelos Marinakis calls foul play. At this rate, this could end up being the saga of the summer.

RW: Rodrygo (Real Madrid to Arsenal or Liverpool)

Surplus to requirements at the Bernabéu, it's almost certain that Rodrygo will be on the move this summer. But where? At Arsenal, the Brazilian would certainly be an upgrade on the inconsistent (and possibly Saudi-bound) Gabriel Martinelli. But if Liverpool sell Luis Díaz, they'll need a replacement, too.

ST: Alexander Isak (Newcastle to Liverpool)

Liverpool may have had their initial approach for Isak rebuffed, but the Swedish striker has since informed the Magpies that he is open to exploring a move this summer. Having already signed Hugo Ekitike, adding Isak too would surely blow the Premier League away.

LW: Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United to Napoli)

Garnacho seems far from happy at Old Trafford. His antics in the aftermath of the Europa League final appear to be the final nail in the coffin for the Argentinian winger. A move away would suit all parties, and Serie A champions Napoli are credited with a strong interest.