Club World Cup 2025: The Transfer Targets Everyone Will Be Watching
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States will not just be about the fight for the trophy. Like the international World Cup, it’s also a huge chance for players to show what they can do and catch the eye of top clubs.
With 32 teams competing, plenty of fresh talent will make a name for themselves. But alongside them are big names hoping to impress and secure major moves in the summer transfer window.
Here are eight stars who could boost their transfer chances with strong performances at the Club World Cup.
Diogo Costa – Porto
Diogo Costa has been linked with Europe’s biggest clubs for some time. The 25-year-old goalkeeper, known for his penalty saves, is on the radar of Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City and Barcelona. After impressing for Portugal at Euro 2024 and in the Nations League, a good showing in the US could finally seal him a move.
Julián Álvarez – Atlético Madrid
Álvarez only joined Atlético last summer for £82 million but is already being linked with a move away. The former Man City striker scored 29 goals last season and has attracted interest from Barcelona, Arsenal and Liverpool. Atlético want to keep him, but with so many clubs watching, it won’t be easy.
Álvaro Carreras – Benfica
Real Madrid are keen on the 24-year-old left-back, but couldn’t agree a deal before the tournament. Carreras will line up for Benfica at the Club World Cup and could further impress Madrid fans before any transfer is completed later this summer.
Christopher Nkunku – Chelsea
Nkunku has had a tough season at Chelsea, and rumours of an exit are growing. With Chelsea signing Liam Delap and still looking for more strikers, Nkunku may be on the move. Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Juventus are said to be interested. But with limited chances expected at the Club World Cup, he may have to make the most of time off the bench.
Franco Mastantuono – River Plate
The 17-year-old wonderkid is set to join Real Madrid after the Club World Cup for £38 million. Until then, Mastantuono will look to keep shining for River Plate and impress his future employers.
Jamie Bynoe-Gittens – Borussia Dortmund
Chelsea tried to sign the English winger before the Club World Cup but Dortmund said no. Bynoe-Gittens had a strong season with 12 goals, and Chelsea could return with a better offer after the tournament.
Kenan Yildiz – Juventus
Yildiz, 20, has become one of Juventus’ key players. His form has already attracted interest from Chelsea, Manchester United and PSG. A strong Club World Cup could see his name pop up again in transfer rumours.
Rodrygo – Real Madrid
Rodrygo’s future has been the subject of much talk, even though he’s hinted at staying. Arsenal and clubs from Saudi Arabia remain keen. If he struggles for game time at the Club World Cup, the speculation will only grow.
The stage is set in the USA — now it’s time to see who will shine and attract Europe’s giants.
