The 2026 summer window hasn't opened yet but the shape of it is already becoming clear. Clubs are setting budgets, identifying targets, and — in some cases — telling players their futures lie elsewhere. Here's what each of the major clubs is likely working towards when business officially opens.
Manchester United
The biggest job in England's summer market is sorting out Old Trafford. INEOS have been building towards a serious rebuild since they took over — the academy investment, the data infrastructure, the new managerial appointment (whoever that turns out to be). Now comes the spending. A new striker is priority number one. A central midfielder who can actually control games is number two. Defensive depth depends on who stays.
United are expected to raise funds through sales first. Several players are being offered around. The wage bill has been a persistent problem and getting it under control is as important as any incoming transfer.
Arsenal
Arsenal's position is more about addition than transformation. They've been close to the title for two seasons and the squad core is largely settled. Arteta wants another midfielder — someone who can cover for Rice during long stretches of the campaign — and a backup striker who can actually score, not just press. Whether they spend big or smart depends on how the Champions League ends.
Liverpool
Slot's first full summer at the club. He'll have a clearer picture now of what he has and what he needs. Midfield depth has been an issue. The front three remains world-class but is ageing — Darwin Nunez's future is uncertain, and the club have been exploring options. A new signing in attack feels likely regardless of how this season concludes.
Real Madrid
The Haaland situation dominates their summer, along with the ongoing question of what to do with Mbappe's role in the team. If Haaland moves — and that's still a significant if — Madrid would need to restructure around him rather than alongside Mbappe. It's a complicated dynamic with a huge price tag attached.
They're also expected to add at least one central defender, with several ageing players in the squad due contract renewals or replacements.
The bigger picture
PSR rules continue to shape what clubs can and can't do. Several clubs are expected to sell before they buy. The days of spending freely without accounting for outgoings are mostly gone — the constraint creates a different kind of market, one where creativity in deal structure matters as much as cash.
The window officially opens on June 10. Business, informally, has been happening for months already.
Follow SOLOSCORE.COM for all transfer news and summer window updates as they happen.
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