6 Major Transfers That Could Happen Before the Club World Cup

The traditional summer transfer window may still be weeks away from officially opening, but for the 32 clubs taking part in this year’s FIFA Club World Cup, business is already booming.

An exceptional registration period, sanctioned by FIFA, has opened from 1 June to 10 June, allowing clubs to strengthen their squads ahead of the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup kicking off in the United States on 15 June 

While every club is technically allowed to make transfers during this early window, the focus is on those competing in the tournament – and some huge moves have already been confirmed.

Real Madrid have wasted no time, sealing deals for Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, while outside of the FCWC, Liverpool landed Jeremie Frimpong and Manchester United announced the signing of Matheus Cunha. But the fireworks might not be over yet.

Here are six massive deals that could still happen before the mini window slams shut.

Tijjani Reijnders to Manchester City

Manchester City are aiming to bounce back from a disappointing campaign by making early moves in the market, and AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is top of their list.

The 26-year-old Dutchman is seen as a potential long-term successor to Ilkay Gündogan and could provide a much-needed boost to Pep Guardiola’s midfield after an injury-ravaged season.

Reports suggest a £60 million deal is close to being completed, with City hoping to finalise the transfer before flying out to the US for the Club World Cup.

Rayan Cherki to Manchester City

Another midfield target for City is Rayan Cherki, with the Lyon playmaker reportedly close to agreeing a £35 million move. The 21-year-old has long been tipped for a Premier League switch, and Pep Guardiola is believed to be a fan of his flair, dribbling, and versatility across attacking roles.

City have acted early to beat competition from across Europe and want Cherki on board before their Club World Cup campaign begins. With Kevin De Bruyne’s future uncertain and Jack Grealish under pressure, the Frenchman could offer a dynamic new option in City’s evolving midfield setup.

Bruno Fernandes to Al Hilal

Manchester United’s captain could be on the move – and not just anywhere. Al Hilal are said to be preparing a stunning £100 million offer for Bruno Fernandes, who endured a frustrating campaign at Old Trafford.

If completed, it would be one of the biggest-ever moves from Europe to the Saudi Pro League. United have reportedly begun preparing for life without him, identifying Pedro Gonçalves as a potential replacement.

For Al Hilal, it would be another statement signing as they chase Club World Cup glory – and Fernandes’ playmaking flair would certainly raise their threat level.

 Franco Mastantuono to PSG

Just 17 years old, Franco Mastantuono could be the next South American wonderkid to make a splash in Europe. And it looks like UCL champions Paris Saint-Germain are winning the race.

With Real Madrid hesitant to trigger his €45 million release clause, PSG have moved swiftly and are closing in on a deal. Already capped at senior level for River Plate, Mastantuono is widely seen as the heir to Argentina’s creative throne, and PSG clearly view him as the future of their midfield.

A move before June 10 would allow him to integrate with the squad ahead of the Club World Cup, where he’d join a fresh-look PSG side chasing their first-ever global title.

Cristiano Ronaldo to Botafogo

Yes, really. Cristiano Ronaldo has thrown his future into doubt after ending the Saudi Pro League season with a cryptic tweet and no silverware once again at Al-Nassr.

Now Botafogo – part of the global Eagle Football group alongside Lyon and Crystal Palace – have emerged as a shock contender to land the Portuguese icon.

It would be a sensational late-career twist, especially with Gianni Infantino recently suggesting Ronaldo could feature at the Club World Cup.

Whether it’s Brazil or a new Saudi suitor like Al Hilal, expect movement on Ronaldo’s future very soon.

Hugo Ekitike to Chelsea

Chelsea are never shy when it comes to early summer business, and the latest name on their radar is Hugo Ekitike.

After a strong campaign at Eintracht Frankfurt, the 22-year-old French striker is in high demand, but reports suggest Chelsea have already agreed personal terms.

The Blues are negotiating down Frankfurt’s £80m asking price, and there’s growing confidence that a deal will be struck during this mini-window.

After also agreeing a deal to sign Liam Delap, Ekitike’s arrival could spell the end for Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku, but for new manager Enzo Maresca, it’s all about building a team that can compete in the US this summer – and in the Premier League next season.

The FIFA Club World Cup gets underway on 15 June. Bet on all the action with Bet9ja!

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