Top World Cup stars heading to the Premier League

James Rodriguez, Keylor Navas, Guillermo Ochoa, Sofyan Amrabat. The list of rising stars at the World Cup is endless and the 2026 tournament is no different.

Many stars have stolen the headlines on the big stage and Premier League teams have been watching, waiting to write big cash cheques.

Among those clubs is Newcastle United. The Magpies have cash to burn following the departures of Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon for a combined £165m, and are looking for significant replacements as a result.

5

Johan Manzambi (Switzerland)

Affiliated clubs: Newcastle

To say that the midfield market is expensive in the Premier League would be a huge understatement. Simply put, it’s time for athletic directors and scouts to get their job titles and look for options outside of the chaotic market.

At a time when Newcastle can do well in the middle of the park, buying into the World Cup is a smart way to do their business and Yohan Manzambi appears to be coming through. With Tonali’s money to spend, the Tyneside club stepped in quickly.

Craig Hope of the Daily Mail has been left disappointed with Manzambi and confirmed talks are still ongoing about a move to Newcastle this summer. Indeed, the reporter watched Manzambi with surprise when Switzerland beat Algeria 2-0 and reached the last 16 in a comfortable way.

4

Yan Diomande (Ivory Coast)

Linked clubs: Liverpool

It is impossible to talk about the World Cup without talking about Yan Diomande. The Ivory Coast star has shown exactly why Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are battling for his signature, which could cost around £129m this summer.

Although he is reportedly keen on a move to France instead of Anfield, a deal has yet to be done. Although Diomande is still a RB Leipzig player, Liverpool still have a lot of hope that they can get one of the stars that emerged from the World Cup.

The 19-year-old became the first player this century to complete 10+ dribbles and create 10+ chances in his first three World Cup games. Wherever he ends up, Diomande is destined for the highest.

3

Ayase Ueda (Japan)

Linked clubs: Leeds, Everton

Aase Ueda is a classic example of what the World Cup can do to a player’s career. The Japan star enjoyed a fine domestic campaign at Feyenoord, scoring 26 goals in all competitions, but there were clearly still doubts about his ability to do so at the highest level.

The World Cup may have changed that view. The 27-year-old played a key role for Japan, as they reached the last 32 before bowing out to Gabriel Martinelli’s last-minute goal against Brazil.

Despite an early exit, the striker’s three goal involvement in four games is enough to catch the eye of Everton as they look for a consistent goalscorer. Reports say that the Toffees are preparing to sign his signature.

2

Zion Suzuki (Japan)

Linked clubs: Leeds, Aston Villa

Ueda is not the only one who impressed Japan in the World Cup. Parma’s goalkeeper, Zion Suzuki, has also attracted the attention of many teams in the Premier League and now it is Leeds United who look likely to sign him.

The Whites have had a consistent goalkeeping problem over the past two years and Daniel Farke has been forced to turn to Karl Darlow on numerous occasions. Suzuki represents an impressive, long-term solution.

According to the latest reports, Leeds have already opened negotiations to sign the stopper and are looking to complete his deal ASAP as the Japanese competition is over.

1

Ayyoub Bouaddi (Morocco)

Linked clubs: Liverpool, Man United, Man City, Arsenal

Anyone who watched the opening match between Morocco and Brazil was fully aware of the name Ayyoub Bouaddi. He managed seasoned players like Casemiro, Fabinho and disabled Lucas Paqueta.

At just 18 years old, the LOSC Lille star is one of the best young players in the world and he proved it on the biggest stage. His World Cup is far from over, though. The youngster was on form again as Morocco defeated the Netherlands on penalties to reach the Last 16.

As for Bouaddi, it’s not just headlines that he steals. According to reports, Manchester City are now in talks to secure his arrival and may loan him back to Lille for another season.

It would be the perfect summer move for the biggest star coming out of the 2026 World Cup.