Premier League Transfer Deadline Guide: What Every Club Still Needs Before the Window Closes

The opening weekend of the 2026/27 Premier League season may already be in the books, but plenty of clubs are still far from finished in the transfer market.

With the summer window approaching its September 1 deadline, recruitment teams across the division face a final push to strengthen squads, move unwanted players on and react to late interest in some of their biggest names.

From Arsenal’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez and Liverpool’s search for another winger to potentially hectic finishes for Aston Villa, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, there could still be a significant amount of movement before the market shuts.

Here is what every Premier League club could still look to do during the remainder of the summer transfer window.

Arsenal: One final attempt for Julian Alvarez?

Arsenal are prepared to keep their interest in Julian Alvarez alive until the very end of the window, although completing a deal remains difficult.

The Atletico Madrid forward is understood to favour a move to Barcelona, while Atletico have little desire to sell him to the Catalan club. Arsenal are waiting to see whether Alvarez’s position changes and he becomes receptive to moving to North London.

If that does not happen, the Premier League champions are unlikely to simply work their way down a list of alternatives. Mikel Arteta is believed to be satisfied with the squad already at his disposal and Arsenal would only add another attacker if they believe he represents a genuine top-level upgrade.

There could be more movement in the opposite direction. Al Hilal are attempting to sign Gabriel Martinelli, with the Brazilian reportedly giving serious consideration to a switch to Saudi Arabia. Ethan Nwaneri could also leave temporarily in search of regular minutes, while Arsenal are prepared to consider offers for Gabriel Jesus.

Two players who will not be going anywhere are Myles Lewis-Skelly and Martin Zubimendi, with Arteta ruling out departures for either midfielder.

Watch Arsenal in Premier League hospitality

Whether Arsenal make another marquee addition or head into the campaign with their current squad, another title challenge will bring some huge fixtures to the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal hospitality packages with Eventmasters offer supporters the chance to experience selected Premier League matches with premium seating and hospitality, including some of the biggest games of the 2026/27 season.

Aston Villa: Attack, midfield and defence all on the agenda

Few clubs could have a busier conclusion to the window than Aston Villa, with Unai Emery’s squad potentially changing in several areas before September 1.

Villa are working on attacking reinforcements and have made approaches for Jean-Philippe Mateta and Rafael Leao. Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson is another possible option, particularly if Ollie Watkins completes a move to Al Hilal.

There is also work to do in midfield. Amadou Onana is unavailable and summer arrival Joao Gomes is suspended, leaving Villa close to completing the signing of free agent Leon Goretzka.

Defensive additions are also being explored following the departure of Ezri Konsa, with Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Joel Ordonez among the centre-backs Villa have held talks over.

Another storyline to follow surrounds Emiliano Martinez. His future remains unclear after Villa brought in Zion Suzuki, despite the Argentina international not yet securing a move elsewhere.

It leaves Villa facing a potentially frantic final few days involving several arrivals and departures.

Experience Aston Villa hospitality with Eventmasters

With Emery looking to strengthen his squad for another major season at Villa Park, supporters can experience the action through Aston Villa hospitality packages from Eventmasters. Enjoy premium matchday surroundings and excellent views as Villa welcome some of the Premier League’s leading clubs to Birmingham throughout 2026/27.

Bournemouth: Di Gregorio set to complete their business

Bournemouth currently expect the arrival of Michele Di Gregorio from Juventus to represent their final major piece of summer recruitment.

The goalkeeper has joined on a season-long loan containing a £12m option to buy, although Bournemouth remain willing to react if an unexpected opportunity appears before the deadline.

Their bigger concern may be retaining Alex Scott.

Chelsea and Manchester City could both look towards the midfielder depending on what happens with Enzo Fernandez, although Bournemouth have no intention of selling Scott and are under no financial pressure to do so.

The midfielder has two years remaining on his contract but has rejected an offer to extend his stay.

Brentford: Only the right opportunity will tempt the Bees

Brentford’s emphatic 3-0 victory against Tottenham Hotspur on the opening weekend offered an early indication of why they are comfortable with the squad they have assembled.

Any further recruitment is therefore expected to be opportunity-led.

The left side is the one area Brentford could strengthen, either through a new left-back or a winger capable of improving their existing options.

They have shown interest in West Ham’s El Hadji Malick Diouf, whose arrival at full-back could allow Keane Lewis-Potter to spend more time further forward.

There is little urgency, though, with Rico Henry, Jayden Meghoma and Aaron Hickey already among the club’s left-back options. Meghoma could be allowed to leave on loan before the deadline.

Brighton: Minteh interest could force late business

Brighton’s plans could be shaped significantly by interest in some of their existing players.

Yankuba Minteh remains firmly on Liverpool’s radar, while the situation surrounding Carlos Baleba and Manchester United could also leave Brighton needing midfield reinforcements.

At left-back, Brighton are working on a potential deal for BSC Young Boys defender Jaouen Hadjam, particularly with Maxim De Cuyper starting the season in a more advanced role.

The Seagulls have also explored signing Yeremay Hernandez from Deportivo La Coruna, although Hull City are among the clubs competing for the winger.

A midfield addition could follow if Baleba or Matt O’Riley moves on. O’Riley has attracted interest from Lyon and other major European sides following his recovery from illness.

Brighton would also consider suitable offers for Evan Ferguson and Igor Julio.

Chelsea: Enzo Fernandez decision could trigger late moves

Chelsea’s final week is expected to focus far more heavily on departures than additions.

The one area where their first-team squad could still change considerably is midfield. Manchester City are interested in Enzo Fernandez, and Chelsea could react if the Argentina international leaves Stamford Bridge.

Alex Scott of Bournemouth and Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace are among the midfielders the club could consider.

Elsewhere, Chelsea could sanction a considerable number of exits, with as many as nine players potentially leaving.

Aston Villa are expected to consider Nicolas Jackson if Ollie Watkins moves to Al Hilal, while Liam Delap is moving closer to Nottingham Forest.

A proposed loan move to Leeds for Mykhailo Mudryk is no longer viewed as the preferred option by Chelsea, with sister club Strasbourg also interested. Strasbourg could also enter the picture for Dario Essugo, although Hull City are pursuing the midfielder.

Centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo has attracted interest from overseas, while Axel Disasi is closing in on a loan move to Crystal Palace.

Coventry City: Two more additions targeted

Coventry City want to complete another two signings before returning to Premier League action against fellow promoted club Hull City.

Frank Lampard has already added 10 players to his squad following promotion, but Coventry are still seeking another left-back and centre-back as they build a squad capable of staying in the top flight.

A deal has already been agreed with Brentford for Ethan Pinnock, who is expected to undergo a medical ahead of a transfer worth up to £6m.

Adding the final pieces to Lampard’s defensive options will now be Coventry’s focus before the window closes.

Crystal Palace: Defensive reinforcements and key futures to resolve

Crystal Palace are set to bring in Axel Disasi on loan from Chelsea following Maxence Lacroix’s departure, but further defensive work could still be required.

Palace are yet to properly replace Marc Guehi, meaning another centre-back could arrive in addition to Disasi.

There has also been a search for greater quality in wide positions. Former Brighton winger Solly March, currently a free agent, is one player Palace have been working towards signing.

Perhaps more important will be keeping hold of some existing stars.

Daniel Munoz, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr are all attracting attention. Aston Villa have approached Palace over Mateta, who has entered the final year of his contract after coming close to joining AC Milan six months ago.

Sarr has interest from Galatasaray. Reports suggesting he has refused to train are incorrect, with the winger currently sidelined through injury.

Munoz, meanwhile, is wanted by several clubs including Everton.

Everton: Moyes still wants defensive and attacking options

David Moyes remains keen to strengthen several areas before Everton finish their summer business.

A new right-back is among the priorities. Everton like Strasbourg defender Guela Doue, although the financial demands involved in a deal are currently difficult. Ridle Baku of RB Leipzig and Crystal Palace’s Daniel Munoz are other players admired by the club.

There could also be movement among Everton’s forwards.

They remain interested in Liam Delap, although Nottingham Forest currently appear better placed to sign the Chelsea striker. At the same time, Beto has interest from Fiorentina.

Another winger could be considered too.

A return for Jack Grealish following his loan spell last season has not been completely ruled out, although he was involved in Manchester City’s squad over the opening weekend and City first need to add players of their own.

Fulham: Arbeloa wants a better-balanced squad

Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa has made clear that he would like further additions as he attempts to create greater balance within his squad.

A right-back appears to be the most immediate target.

Fulham are also yet to directly replace Harry Wilson and Issa Diop, leaving room for another winger and centre-back.

Talks have taken place with Rennes over Abdelhamid Ait-Boudlal, but the French club are reluctant to lose the 20-year-old Morocco international.

Summer signing Gonzalo Garcia also appears to have established himself as Arbeloa’s preferred centre-forward. That could leave questions over the role of the returning Rodrigo Muniz and whether Fulham make changes among their back-up attacking options.

Hull City: At least five more signings wanted

Expect activity at the MKM Stadium.

Hull City want to add at least five more players before the transfer window shuts as they strengthen following promotion to the Premier League.

A deal for Union Berlin centre-forward Ilyas Ansah is moving closer, while Hull are also discussing a move for Deportivo La Coruna winger Yeremay Hernandez.

They are putting the finishing touches to an agreement for Nice forward Mohamed-Ali Cho, with the transfer expected to be worth around £15m.

Hull remain in contention for Stoke City winger Sorba Thomas and have also shown interest in Chelsea midfielder Dario Essugo.

Several members of the existing squad could head in the opposite direction before September 1.

Ipswich Town: Midfield and attack remain priorities

Ipswich Town remain in discussions with Bayer Leverkusen for Exequiel Palacios after an opening offer for the midfielder was rejected.

Further attacking additions are also under consideration, including greater depth at centre-forward. Burnley attacker Zian Flemming is among the players admired at Portman Road.

There could also be several departures.

Ali Al-Hamadi is set to join Sheffield Wednesday on a straight loan deal, potentially creating space for another forward signing.

Wrexham are in talks to sign Anis Mehmeti, while Chiedozie Ogbene, Cameron Humphreys and Alex Palmer have also attracted interest.

Leeds United: Quality rather than quantity

Leeds United will only enter the market again if they believe a player represents a clear improvement on Daniel Farke’s current options.

The club have investigated the availability of Conrad Harder at RB Leipzig, although the likelihood of another striker arriving is currently being played down.

Their interest in Mykhailo Mudryk has remained strong, but Chelsea appear less enthusiastic about sending the winger to Elland Road, particularly with Strasbourg also an option.

An injury to Gabriel Gudmundsson has highlighted the need for extra full-back cover, although completing the right deal is proving difficult.

Leeds also want Eintracht Frankfurt goalkeeper Michael Zetterer as a new back-up. That transfer depends on Frankfurt first securing another No 1 and, should Zetterer arrive, Lucas Perri could then join Torino.

Mateo Joseph and Largie Ramazani are both searching for moves elsewhere.

Liverpool: Wingers remain the priority

Liverpool’s intentions have remained consistent throughout the summer. They want more quality in wide attacking areas.

Paris Saint-Germain duo Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye are being pursued, while Brighton have already rejected two Liverpool approaches for Yankuba Minteh, the latest worth £60m.

Barcola remains one of their highest-profile targets.

PSG have valued the France international at approximately £145m, which has proved the major obstacle during negotiations. Liverpool are currently the only club actively chasing him, however, while Barcola has entered the final two years of his contract and is understood to have become increasingly dissatisfied with his role in Paris.

Another important decision surrounds Cody Gakpo.

Tottenham and Manchester City are interested in the Netherlands international, but Liverpool have no desire to sell. The Reds would likely need to secure two new wingers before even considering allowing Gakpo to depart.

The closing days could therefore centre almost entirely on whether Liverpool can break the deadlock for one or more of their leading attacking targets.

Liverpool hospitality for the 2026/27 season

With another huge Premier League campaign under way at Anfield, Liverpool hospitality packages with Eventmasters provide a premium way to watch the Reds in action. Packages are available for selected fixtures throughout the season, giving supporters the opportunity to combine top-flight football at Anfield with an enhanced matchday experience.

Manchester City: A potentially hectic end to the window

Manchester City could be among the Premier League’s busiest clubs before the deadline, with significant movement possible in both directions.

Savio has completed a move to Tottenham, while Omar Marmoush could follow him to North London provided City first strengthen their attacking options.

Palmeiras winger Allan is heading to Manchester, while City are also interested in Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo.

Midfield is another area to watch.

With Nico Gonzalez moving closer to Newcastle United, City are expected to recruit a replacement. Enzo Fernandez, Alex Scott and Manu Kone are among the midfield options being considered.

City have additionally wanted another striker capable of providing cover throughout the summer. Junior Kroupi has attracted interest, although an injury is expected to keep him out until around October.

There are therefore several moving pieces for City to resolve before business closes.

Manchester United: One more left-back if the right player emerges

Manchester United remain open to recruiting another left-back but are not expected to force a deal merely to add numbers.

Potential moves for Lewis Hall and Myles Lewis-Skelly currently appear unlikely.

Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde has also been discussed as a possibility. United are aware that Barcelona could allow him to leave, although they have not been actively pursuing a transfer.

The club may ultimately prefer to wait until next summer for one of their primary defensive targets rather than sign a short-term alternative.

Beyond that, further incomings look unlikely, with the Carlos Baleba situation potentially representing their final significant piece of summer business.

Interest from Italy in Joshua Zirkzee has not developed sufficiently to suggest an exit, while Marcus Rashford is also expected to remain after being handed United’s No 9 shirt for the season.

Newcastle United: Three positions still under consideration

Newcastle could still add a midfielder, winger and striker before the deadline.

Progress is being made over a deal for Nico Gonzalez from Manchester City, with head coach Matthias Jaissle looking to add further experience to his midfield.

The future of Joe Willock has also attracted attention following strong interest from Besiktas. His impressive display in Newcastle’s 2-2 draw against Liverpool, however, could lead to the midfielder staying at St James’ Park.

Goalkeeper Nick Pope could depart after Newcastle already secured his prospective replacements, while Jacob Murphy has interest from Everton.

The attacking positions are now likely to feature prominently in Newcastle’s final days of recruitment.

Nottingham Forest: Delap leads the list of attacking targets

Nottingham Forest are pushing to sign Liam Delap from Chelsea as they look to strengthen at centre-forward following Taiwo Awoniyi’s £9m move to Coventry City.

Midfield has also been an area of attention.

Forest have pursued Tottenham youngster Lucas Bergvall as a potential replacement for Elliot Anderson, although Spurs head coach Roberto De Zerbi has insisted Bergvall will remain in North London.

A right wing-back could additionally arrive, with Fiorentina’s Dodo among the names on Forest’s radar.

Several younger players could move out temporarily. Dilane Bakwa is set to join Lille on loan, while centre-backs Zach Abbott and Tyler Bindon could also leave, with Watford among the interested clubs.

Sunderland: Three more arrivals possible

Sunderland are preparing for another active finish to the summer and could make as many as three further additions.

A centre-back, winger and striker are all being targeted.

Sporting’s Geny Catamo is admired as a wide option, although the cost involved could make that a difficult transfer to complete.

Defender Jason Seelt is expected to leave on loan once he agrees a new contract. Udinese and Monza have both expressed interest, alongside clubs in the Championship and Bundesliga.

Tottenham Hotspur: Two more forwards after £300m summer

Tottenham have already spent more than £300m during an extraordinary summer rebuild, but their recruitment is not finished yet.

Spurs still want to bring in two attacking players before the deadline.

A deal for Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush is close to being agreed, while Tottenham have also registered an interest in Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo.

Chelsea winger Pedro Neto represents another possible option, although his valuation of close to £100m would make negotiations difficult.

There could still be notable departures from Roberto De Zerbi’s squad too. Pape Matar Sarr and Richarlison are among those who could leave before September 1.

One player now expected to remain is Lucas Bergvall. Nottingham Forest have explored a move for the midfielder, but De Zerbi has made it clear he wants Bergvall to stay.

After already adding considerable quality to the squad this summer, Tottenham could therefore remain at the centre of the transfer market right through to the deadline.

Tottenham Hotspur hospitality with Eventmasters

A dramatically rebuilt Spurs squad will take to the pitch at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium throughout 2026/27, and supporters can experience the action with Tottenham Hotspur hospitality from Eventmasters. A wide selection of premium packages is available for selected Premier League fixtures, offering excellent seating and elevated matchday experiences in one of world football’s leading stadiums.

Could Premier League deadline week deliver more major transfers?

There is plenty still unresolved.

Arsenal continue to wait on Julian Alvarez. Liverpool remain determined to add another winger. Villa are working across several positions, Spurs want another two attackers and Manchester City could make significant changes depending on departures.

Further down the division, Hull are targeting at least five additions, Sunderland could make another three and a number of clubs are still waiting for one transfer to create the domino effect required for several others to happen.

That is before late bids arrive for players clubs currently have little intention of selling.

With the September 1 transfer deadline approaching, Premier League recruitment teams still have plenty of work ahead.

Watch Premier League football with Eventmasters

Once the transfer window closes, attention will turn fully towards the race for points in the 2026/27 Premier League season.

Eventmasters provides a wide range of Premier League football hospitality packages, giving supporters the opportunity to experience some of English football’s biggest fixtures in premium surroundings. From title contenders and European hopefuls to local rivalries and major stadium occasions, hospitality packages are available across selected Premier League matches throughout the campaign.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the 2026 summer Premier League transfer window close?

The summer transfer window is scheduled to close on September 1, 2026, giving Premier League clubs only a matter of days to complete their remaining business.

Which Premier League clubs could be busiest before the transfer deadline?

Aston Villa, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Hull City, Newcastle United and Sunderland are among the clubs that could still complete several pieces of business before the window shuts.

Who are Arsenal trying to sign before the transfer deadline?

Arsenal remain interested in Julian Alvarez and are prepared to keep pursuing the Atletico Madrid forward. However, Alvarez currently favours Barcelona and Arsenal are unlikely to sign an alternative forward unless they believe he is of the required quality.

Who could Liverpool sign before the transfer window closes?

Liverpool are concentrating on adding wingers. Bradley Barcola, Ibrahim Mbaye and Yankuba Minteh are among their targets, with Brighton having already rejected two bids for Minteh, including an offer worth £60m.

Are Tottenham still expected to make more signings?

Yes. Despite spending more than £300m this summer, Tottenham are still hoping to add two forwards. Omar Marmoush is close to joining from Manchester City, while Cody Gakpo and Pedro Neto are also among the players on Spurs’ radar.

What business could Aston Villa still complete?

Villa are exploring additions in attack, midfield and central defence. Jean-Philippe Mateta, Rafael Leao, Nicolas Jackson, Leon Goretzka, Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Joel Ordonez are among the players linked with possible moves.

Can I book Premier League hospitality with Eventmasters?

Yes. Eventmasters offers Premier League hospitality packages for selected fixtures throughout the 2026/27 season, including opportunities to watch clubs such as Arsenal, Aston Villa, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur in premium matchday surroundings.