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World Cup prep threatened by transfer chatter

BBC Sport Football •
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Germany-born coach Julian Tuchel faces a balancing act as England prepare for the 2026 World Cup in West Palm Beach. While the squad acclimatises to heat and travel, transfer rumours swirl around several key players. Midfielder Elliot Anderson, fresh from a breakout season at Nottingham Forest, is already the subject of a rejected Manchester City bid, and his eventual move could set a new British record this summer.

If Anderson departs, the price tag could eclipse the £105m Arsenal paid for Declan Rice, reshaping the summer market. Villa’s Morgan Rogers, who logged 55 appearances with 14 goals and 12 assists, attracts Arsenal, Manchester United and others, but clubs face a £80m price tag. Meanwhile Anthony Gordon already secured a Barcelona switch, leaving Marcus Rashford’s £26m loan clause still unresolved.

Defender John Stones will also exit Manchester City after a decade of trophies, adding another transfer variable. Tuchel insists any deal must be settled privately and well before matchday, stressing that clarity helps the squad stay focused. With several contracts hanging, England’s coaching staff will firmly enforce a quiet, efficient process to protect World Cup preparation.