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The summer transfer window is hurtling towards its dramatic conclusion, and while we’ve already witnessed a flurry of high-profile moves, the footballing world braces for a final wave of activity. As clubs across Europe fine-tune their squads for the season ahead, the rumour mill churns with tantalizing possibilities. From perennial title contenders to ambitious challengers, several teams could still make game-changing additions before the September deadline.
Here at Sports Illustrated, we’ve compiled a wish list of transfers that, while perhaps not all guaranteed, would undoubtedly add immense intrigue and quality to the beautiful game. Get ready for some bold predictions and exciting scenarios!
Kobbie Mainoo to Real Madrid: A Midfield Maestro for Los Blancos?
Kobbie Mainoo burst onto the scene in the 2023–24 season, hailed as Manchester United’s midfield saviour. However, life under Ruben Amorim has proven challenging for the young Englishman, sparking speculation about his long-term future at Old Trafford. While United remains firm on retaining him, the whispers of interest from Real Madrid are growing louder.
With concerns over their midfield depth, Real Madrid could offer the talented 20-year-old a chance to join compatriots Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold in the Spanish capital. Xabi Alonso’s progressive approach could be the perfect environment for Mainoo to flourish, surrounded by world-class talent. This move would be a dream for Mainoo and Madrid, though a bitter pill for the Red Devils.
Rodrygo to Manchester City: Another Galactic Addition to the Premier League?
Rodrygo’s future at Real Madrid has been a hot topic this summer, with Xabi Alonso reportedly eyeing alternatives to the Brazilian. While Arsenal was initially linked, Manchester City has now entered the fray. Given the Gunners’ significant summer spending, the Etihad Stadium appears to be the most likely destination for the fleet-footed 24-year-old.
It would be a strategic coup for City to secure a player who is not only a serial Champions League winner but also boasts an impressive record of 23 or more goal contributions in each of his last three seasons. Rodrygo’s arrival would add another layer of excitement to an already stacked Premier League, further solidifying its status as the world’s most captivating league.
Savinho to Tottenham Hotspur: An Explosive Winger for Spurs?
Should Rodrygo indeed make the switch to Manchester City, it could pave the way for Savinho to depart the champions for Tottenham Hotspur. City has reportedly been reluctant to let him go due to their own lack of depth on the flanks, but the Brazilian, currently nursing an injury, would be an outstanding addition to Thomas Frank’s squad.
Savinho showcased his immense talent at Girona in 2023–24 and offered glimpses of his flair with City last season. However, with Oscar Bobb’s return and the arrival of Rayan Cherki, his minutes could be limited. A move to Tottenham, especially with the departure of club legend Son Heung-min and Champions League football on the horizon, would provide him with the crucial game time needed to reach his full potential. Spurs desperately need an explosive winger, and Savinho fits the bill perfectly.
Alessandro Bastoni to Chelsea: Reinforcing a Shaky Defence
Levi Colwill’s ACL injury has dealt a significant blow to Chelsea’s defensive aspirations at the start of the new campaign, leaving them short on quality centre-back options. While the Blues have secured Alejandro Garnacho and are pushing for Fermín López, reinforcing their backline with a player of Alessandro Bastoni’s calibre would be a far wiser use of funds.
Chelsea’s reported £43 million ($58.1 million) approach for Bastoni was “politely declined” by Inter Milan, who understandably value their prized defensive asset highly. However, with Colwill sidelined for most of the season, Chelsea is playing a risky game by not investing in a new central defender. Bastoni, widely regarded as one of the world’s best centre-backs, would provide much-needed experience and leadership at the back, making him the dream solution for the West London club.
Antony to Bayern Munich: A Chance for Redemption?
Antony’s future at Old Trafford seems all but over, with Manchester United eager to offload their second most expensive signing. While Real Betis, where he rediscovered his form on loan last term, had to back away due to cost, Sky Sports recently revealed Bayern Munich as potential suitors. Though it appears an unlikely switch, it would be an exciting opportunity for Antony to rebuild his reputation after years of inconsistency at United.
Bayern, despite the addition of Luis Díaz, lacks an abundance of wide options, and Jamal Musiala’s FIFA Club World Cup injury has further depleted their numbers. It would be fascinating to see if Antony could thrive at an elite club away from the chaotic environment of Old Trafford, potentially reigniting his career in Germany.
Harvey Elliott to Crystal Palace: Unlocking Potential at Selhurst Park
Harvey Elliott enjoyed a stellar summer, being named Player of the Tournament at the Under-21 European Championship with England. However, Florian Wirtz’s arrival at Liverpool has pushed him further down Arne Slot’s pecking order, following a season where he made only a handful of starts.
Elliott has been linked with a Liverpool departure in search of regular first-team minutes, with RB Leipzig emerging as suitors. However, with Crystal Palace having just lost Eberechi Eze to Arsenal, they are reportedly keen on the 22-year-old. Liverpool has nurtured Elliott’s talents, but they may not be able to provide him with the platform he needs to reach the next level.
Under Oliver Glasner at Selhurst Park, Elliott could develop into a truly impressive talent, gaining the consistent game time crucial for his progression. This move could be a win-win, offering Palace a dynamic midfielder and Elliott the stage to shine.
For the latest transfer news and rumours from around the world of soccer, read more here.
