Clubs across Europe will be eager to bolster their ranks in the coming months but the financial implications of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic may hinder business, while the forthcoming European Championship could delay potential deals.
Brighton and Hove Albion will look to bolster Graham Potter’s squad with a striker seemingly high on the agenda, but keeping hold of a couple of their big stars, like Ben White and Yves Bissouma, may be the biggest challenge the transfer chiefs face at the Amex Stadium.
Midfield man Bissouma has been linked with Arsenal and Chelsea after an excellent season while the versatile White has sprung to prominence even more with his England call-up recently.
Elsewhere, Harry Kane’s future will undoubtedly be at the top of the agenda, with gossip on the England skipper’s destination if he leaves Tottenham Hotspur already in full swing.
The Premier League big guns will be keen to wrap up their business early but with the Euros coming up, transfers are unlikely to be completed quickly.
Here’s some of the big deals that could rumble throughout the summer.
. BURNLEY, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 20: Matheus Pereira of West Bromwich Albion places the blue and white Premier League Nike Flight match ball on the corner flag during the Premier League match between Burnley and West Bromwich Albion at Turf Moor on February 20, 2021 in Burnley, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
The transfer window could be a long summer this time around. Photo: Clive Brunskill
. Erling Haaland
Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United have each been linked with the Leeds-born Norway international along with Bayern Munich, while the eye-watering finances involved may deter Real Madrid and Barcelona. Dortmund are reported to be demanding 180million Euros (£155m) Photo: INA FASSBENDER
. Harry Kane
The 27-year-old striker is supposedly eager to leave Spurs but remain in England and said to favour a move to Manchester City. Manchester United and Chelsea are also thought to be keen. But Kane’s contract has three years to run and, with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy renowned for being a tough negotiator, he will command a hefty fee. Photo: Shaun Botterill
. Dean Henderson and David de Gea
Man United appear to have reached crossroads in their goalkeeping situation, meaning either David De Gea or Dean Henderson may be sold. Smart money is on ex-Sheffield United loanee Henderson staying and becoming No1 with Tom Heaton brought in on a free transfer as back-up. Photo: LAURENCE GRIFFITHS
. Danny Ings
Striker Danny Ings, who has 12 months to run on his Southampton contract, has been linked with Manchester City and Tottenham. Photo: Pool
1. Erling Haaland
Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United have each been linked with the Leeds-born Norway international along with Bayern Munich, while the eye-watering finances involved may deter Real Madrid and Barcelona. Dortmund are reported to be demanding 180million Euros (£155m) Photo: INA FASSBENDER
2. Harry Kane
The 27-year-old striker is supposedly eager to leave Spurs but remain in England and said to favour a move to Manchester City. Manchester United and Chelsea are also thought to be keen. But Kane’s contract has three years to run and, with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy renowned for being a tough negotiator, he will command a hefty fee. Photo: Shaun Botterill
3. Dean Henderson and David de Gea
Man United appear to have reached crossroads in their goalkeeping situation, meaning either David De Gea or Dean Henderson may be sold. Smart money is on ex-Sheffield United loanee Henderson staying and becoming No1 with Tom Heaton brought in on a free transfer as back-up. Photo: LAURENCE GRIFFITHS
4. Danny Ings
Striker Danny Ings, who has 12 months to run on his Southampton contract, has been linked with Manchester City and Tottenham. Photo: Pool