The 2026 summer transfer window is in its final month, and while Chelsea and Manchester City have already flexed their financial muscle with nine-figure additions, the market has not yet delivered its last blockbusters. Both sides made headlines earlier this summer, with Chelsea securing Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa and Manchester City bringing in Elliott Anderson from Nottingham Forest — each deal breaking the £100 million mark. As clubs prepare for the 2026/27 campaign, tactical needs, contract standoffs, and the sheer spending power of Europe's elite are keeping several marquee moves alive. These are five transfers that could still be completed before the deadline. The coming weeks will determine whether these speculative links turn into official transfers.
Five Transfers That Could Still Happen
Rodri to Real Madrid
Rodri stands out as the highest-profile midfielder believed to be on Real Madrid's radar. The Manchester City anchor, who collected the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball en route to Spain's triumph in 2026, is approaching the final years of his contract at the Etihad. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez was initially hesitant to green-light the deal, but reports now suggest he has approved the move, with the Spanish giants entering direct talks with City. Rodri's desire to return to his homeland is a decisive factor. City, for their part, have turned down proposals for a new contract and are reportedly prepared to consider a sale rather than risk losing him for nothing when his deal expires.
Enzo Fernandez to Real Madrid
Enzo Fernandez has been a long-time target for Real Madrid, even before he moved to Chelsea in January 2026. The midfielder had been linked with Los Blancos during his time at Benfica and after helping Argentina lift the 2022 World Cup. Chelsea ultimately signed him for £106.8 million, but Real Madrid have never completely disappeared from the picture. Although the club issued an official statement denying speculation, the possibility of a transfer lingers. Chelsea are said to be open to selling Fernandez if they receive an offer exceeding what they paid three years ago. That would give Real Madrid a clear, if expensive, pathway to securing another Argentine talent.
Vinicius Jr to Arsenal
The most ambitious rumour of the remaining window involves Vinícius Júnior and Arsenal. According to The Athletic, Arsenal are carefully monitoring the Brazilian's contract situation at Real Madrid and would be ready to make a serious approach if the conditions align. Vinicius and Madrid are at an impasse over a new deal, with only one year remaining on his current contract. As such, Madrid may prefer to sell him for a transfer fee this summer instead of allowing him to leave for free in 2027. A move to the Premier League would be a seismic shift in the market, and Arsenal are positioning themselves to capitalise on the uncertainty.
Julian Alvarez to Barcelona
Julian Alvarez has made no secret of his desire to play for Barcelona, and the Catalan club appears equally eager. The issue lies with Atletico Madrid, who are unwilling to sell the former Manchester City striker to a direct rival. Atletico have even lodged a formal complaint against Barcelona with La Liga, yet the saga continues. Alvarez remains interested in joining the Camp Nou side, and with the transfer window still open, his future at the Metropolitano is far from settled. Whether Barcelona can satisfy Atletico's financial demands and overcome the friction between the clubs remains a major subplot.
Bradley Barcola to Liverpool
Liverpool, meanwhile, are looking to rebuild their attack following Mohamed Salah's free-agent departure at the end of last season. The Egyptian forward left Anfield after nine years on Merseyside, leaving a significant void on the right wing. The Reds have identified Bradley Barcola as their preferred replacement. The French international wants to leave Paris Saint-Germain in search of regular playing time, which fits Liverpool's needs. However, PSG's reported €170 million asking price has complicated matters. The fee is a substantial obstacle, but Liverpool's interest is genuine, and a breakthrough could materialise if the two clubs find common ground.
What to Watch For in the Final Weeks
With Rodri, Fernandez, Vinicius, Alvarez, and Barcola all potentially on the move, the final stretch of the summer window could reshape the European landscape. Clubs know that the right signing now might define their entire season. Meanwhile, the risk of losing key players for free next summer is pushing several boards to act. Negotiations remain fluid, and any of these deals could accelerate at a moment's notice. Fans should brace for a dramatic conclusion to what has already been a memorable transfer window. Supporters should keep a close eye on official announcements as clubs push to get their business done.
