Five players to keep an eye on throughout the Premier League's transfer window

 

The Premier League’s 2025 summer transfer window, uniquely structured around the FIFA Club World Cup with openings from June 1-10 and June 16-September 1, promises to be a defining period for the 2025-26 season. 

With clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Liverpool eyeing transformative signings, and smaller sides like Brentford and Crystal Palace bracing for potential exits, the market is buzzing with intrigue. Here are five players to keep an eye on as the transfer window unfolds, each poised to shape the Premier League’s competitive landscape.

Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen) – The Midfield Maestro

At just 21, Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz has emerged as one of Europe’s brightest talents, drawing interest from Liverpool, Manchester City, and Arsenal. The German attacking midfielder’s blend of creativity, vision, and goal-scoring ability has made him a prime target, with a potential transfer fee exceeding £80 million. 

His performances in the Club World Cup could further inflate his value, as top clubs vie to secure his signature. Liverpool see Wirtz as a transformative addition to their attack, while Manchester City view him as a creative spark in midfield. Arsenal, meanwhile, are keen to pair him with the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz to bolster their playmaking options. Wirtz’s next move could redefine a Premier League midfield.

see also: Bruno Fernandes 'REJECTS' £200MILLION offer to join Saudi giants Al-Hilal - but key detail in report spells trouble for Man United

Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford) – The Versatile Forward

Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has caught the eye of Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Manchester United with his versatility and goal-scoring prowess. Capable of playing across the front line, the 25-year-old’s performances have sparked talk of a £50 million move. 

Liverpool view him as a potential long-term successor to Mohamed Salah, whose contract situation remains uncertain. Newcastle see Mbeumo as an upgrade on their right wing, while Manchester United could turn to him to replace the creative output of their outgoing captain. Brentford will fight to keep their star, but a big-money offer could prove tempting, making Mbeumo a player to watch.

Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) – The Captain’s Crossroads

Manchester United’s dismal 2024-25 season, their worst in 51 years, has put captain Bruno Fernandes in the spotlight. A potential £100 million move to Saudi side Al Hilal could provide new manager Ruben Amorim with funds to rebuild a squad lacking creativity and goal threat. Fernandes, 30, delivered an impressive 19 goals and 19 assists last season, second only to Mohamed Salah among Premier League players. 

His comments after United’s Europa League final loss to Tottenham—“If the club thinks it’s time to part ways… it is what it is”—suggest he’s open to a move. A transfer to Al Hilal could make him one of the world’s highest-paid players, but his departure would leave massive shoes to fill at Old Trafford. United may target players like Mbeumo or Wirtz to fill the void, making Fernandes’ future a pivotal storyline.

see also: 5 Premier League clubs in danger of breaching PSR & UEFA FFP this summer

Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP) – The Prolific Striker

Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres has taken Europe by storm with a staggering 54 goals in the 2024-25 season, including six in eight Champions League matches. The 26-year-old Swede’s clinical finishing has made him a top target for Arsenal, who are desperate to end a five-year trophy drought under Mikel Arteta.

 Gyokeres’ €100 million buyout clause could be negotiated down to €70 million, but doubts persist about his ability to replicate his Portuguese form in the Premier League. Having struggled at Brighton and spent time in England’s Championship with Coventry, Gyokeres faces scrutiny over his adaptability. Arsenal, who also admire RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Newcastle’s unattainable Alexander Isak, see Gyokeres as their primary striker target. His decision could shape the Gunners’ attacking fortunes.

Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace) – The Dazzling Playmaker

Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze has dazzled with his flair, dribbling, and ability to unlock defenses, attracting interest from Arsenal and Tottenham. The 26-year-old’s performances in Palace’s counter-attacking system have fueled speculation of a £60 million move, particularly if Palace secure European football. 

Arsenal view Eze as a versatile option to ease the burden on Bukayo Saka, who has faced injury concerns, while Tottenham see him as a creative spark for Ange Postecoglou’s system. Eze’s potential transfer could elevate a top club’s attacking output, making him a key figure in the window.