The 2026 summer transfer window has already shattered records and rewritten scripts, but the final act could still deliver the most dramatic twists yet.
The summer transfer window of 2026 has already delivered its fair share of headline-grabbing deals, with Premier League clubs surpassing the £2 billion mark in spending and record-breaking moves such as Morgan Rogers’s £117 million switch to Chelsea capturing global attention.
Yet, with the deadline still a few days away, the story is far from over. Several high-profile players remain in limbo, and clubs are quietly working behind the scenes to pull off last-minute coups. Here, The Hard Tackle now examines five blockbuster transfers that could still materialise before the window slams shut.
Bradley Barcola to Liverpool
Liverpool’s pursuit of Bradley Barcola has been one of the most persistent narratives of this window, and all signs point to a breakthrough in the coming days. The 23-year-old French winger has been in sensational form for Paris Saint-Germain, registering 20 goal contributions in under 3,000 minutes last season, a return that underscores his efficiency and explosive impact.
With Luis Diaz departing last summer and Mohamed Salah following suit this year, the Reds are in urgent need of a new main man up top, and Barcola fits that profile perfectly. Reports suggest personal terms have already been agreed between the player and Liverpool, with the sticking point remaining the fee.
PSG have reportedly turned down an initial offer of around €115 million, but Liverpool are now preparing an improved bid in the region of €120-130 million to get the deal over the line. For Barcola, a move to Anfield offers a clearer pathway to regular starts compared to the fierce competition in Paris, while for Liverpool, he represents a direct upgrade on Cody Gakpo and a long-term solution on the flank. With both sides motivated, this transfer feels increasingly inevitable.
Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City
Perhaps the most financially significant deal still on the cards is Enzo Fernandez’s potential move from Chelsea to Manchester City. The Argentine midfielder has been a cornerstone at Stamford Bridge since his record arrival.
City’s pursuit of a creative deep-lying playmaker has intensified following Rodri’s £65 million departure to Barcelona. Fernandez’s profile, combining defensive discipline with exceptional passing range and vision, makes him an ideal successor to the Spanish maestro.
Chelsea have set a firm £120 million valuation, but City are understood to be ready to meet that figure as they look to reshape their midfield before the window closes. Rodri’s exit, alongside Tijjani Reijnders’s move to Al-Qadsiah, has generated substantial funds for the Etihad side, enabling them to make another significant investment. Should this deal go through, it would not only address City’s creative void but also represent one of the biggest transfers of the window.
Julian Alvarez to Arsenal
While Julian Alvarez’s heart appears set on a move to Barcelona, Atletico Madrid’s steadfast refusal to sell to their fierce rivals has opened a narrow window of opportunity for Arsenal.
The Argentine forward’s relationship with Atletico has deteriorated publicly, with fans booing him upon his return. Meanwhile, Diego Simeone and others from the club continue to insist he will not be sold. This stalemate has left the 26-year-old in a difficult position, but it has also made Arsenal’s late push more plausible.
The Gunners have been monitoring the situation closely throughout the summer, and with Barcelona potentially shifting focus, the Gunners are now preparing to test Atletico’s resolve.
Reports suggest the Madrid club are seeking around €150 million for the 26-year-old, a fee Arsenal are confident they can raise if Alvarez gives the green light. Although the player’s preference remains Catalonia, a move to the Emirates could offer him a fresh start in the Premier League, where he previously thrived under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. With deadline day approaching, this saga could take a dramatic turn.
Alex Scott to Chelsea
Chelsea’s midfield overhaul under Xabi Alonso continues to gather pace, and Alex Scott has emerged as a key target in the final days of the window. The Bournemouth midfielder has impressed with his energy, technical ability, and maturity beyond his years, prompting the Blues to make multiple approaches for his signature.
While no deal has been finalised and multiple offers have been turned down, Chelsea are reportedly willing to submit another significant offer to secure the 22-year-old midfielder’s services. For Scott, a move to Stamford Bridge would represent a major step up in his career, offering the chance to compete at the highest level under one of Europe’s most promising young coaches.
For Chelsea, he would add depth and dynamism. With Enzo Fernandez’s future uncertain, Scott could prove to be an ideal replacement. This transfer may not carry the same financial weight as others on this list, but it could prove to be a shrewd piece of business in the long term.
Alejandro Balde to Manchester United
Manchester United’s defensive rebuild under Michael Carrick continues, and Alejandro Balde has been identified as a priority target to bolster their left flank. The Barcelona full-back could see his playing time reduced following Joao Cancelo’s permanent arrival at Camp Nou, raising questions about his future at the Spanish giants.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed United’s interest, with the Premier League side exploring the feasibility of a deal and assessing Barcelona’s terms. Although Balde is reportedly content at Barcelona, the increased competition for places means he is no longer guaranteed a starting role.
A move to Old Trafford could offer him the regular football he craves, while United would gain a dynamic, attack-minded defender with experience at the highest level. The main obstacle remains Barcelona’s willingness to sell, but with United’s financial muscle and Balde’s reduced role, a deal cannot be ruled out in the final days of the window.
