England’s World Cup 2026 picture just got a summer mercato jolt. Morgan Rogers is keen on a move to Premier League champions Arsenal, Marcus Rashford is prepared to take a pay cut to join Tottenham, and Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali is wanted by both London giants. With Tuchel’s squad still taking shape, where these England-linked stars land could shape the road to North America.
Rogers a top Arsenal target
Aston Villa and England midfielder Morgan Rogers, 23, is keen on a move to Premier League champions Arsenal this summer, with the Gunners making him a top target. His versatility across the front and midfield makes him an ideal fit for a side chasing trophies on multiple fronts.
A switch to Arsenal would put Rogers in the Champions League shop window at the perfect time — regular elite minutes before the World Cup 2026 squad is finalised could cement his place in Thomas Tuchel’s plans.
Rashford ready for a Spurs pay cut
Manchester United and England forward Marcus Rashford, 28, is prepared to take a pay cut to join Tottenham for £40m this summer after his Barcelona loan. The willingness to drop wages signals how badly Rashford wants regular football ahead of the World Cup.
A return to the Premier League with Spurs would hand Rashford a fresh platform to rediscover his best form — and a fully firing Rashford would be a serious boost to England’s attacking depth in 2026.
Tonali torn between Arsenal and Tottenham
Tottenham are confident of signing Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali for a fee close to £85m, but the Italy international, 26, would rather join rivals Arsenal. The tug-of-war could become one of the summer’s defining sagas in north London.
While Tonali is an Azzurri man, the battle for his signature shows the premium on elite box-to-box midfielders — a position England will need firing on all cylinders to challenge for the World Cup 2026 crown.
FAQ
Why does Morgan Rogers want to join Arsenal?
Rogers sees Arsenal as a step up — Premier League champions with Champions League football and a title-chasing project that could boost his England case before World Cup 2026.
How much would Tottenham pay for Rashford?
Spurs are targeting a deal worth around £40m, with Rashford reportedly prepared to take a pay cut to make the move happen after his Barcelona loan.
Will Tonali sign for Arsenal or Tottenham?
Tottenham are confident and ready to pay close to £85m, but Tonali would prefer to join Arsenal. The situation remains unresolved.
How do these transfers affect England’s World Cup squad?
Regular elite minutes matter — moves that get Rogers and Rashford playing consistently could strengthen their case for Tuchel’s World Cup 2026 squad.
When is the 2026 World Cup?
The 2026 World Cup runs from June to July 2026 across the United States, Canada and Mexico, featuring a new 48-team format.
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