Transfer Tiers: Top nine attacking midfielders for the 2026 summer window | OneFootball

Transfer Tiers sets out the top nine attacking midfield options for the 2026 summer window.

According to NY Times, a panel ranked nine targets into three tiers. Inclusion does not guarantee availability, and elite sides could still opt for a Tier Three pick.

Tier One features Nico Paz, Como’s creative hub and an Argentina World Cup call-up, with Real Madrid’s buy-back clause noted. Morgan Rogers is seen as a top-level move only, with Aston Villa’s Champions League platform and recent European trophy relevant. Martin Odegaard is included although there is no indication he is available, since a move cannot be ruled out after an injury-hit season of one goal and six assists.

Tier Two includes Morgan Gibbs-White, costly and central wherever he goes, despite 15 Premier League goals and four assists after missing the World Cup. Takefusa Kubo sits between winger and No 10 roles at Real Sociedad, with doubts about elite openings rather than talent. Konstantinos Karetsas, the left-footed Genk prodigy now capped by Greece, is slight but widely tipped for a Champions League step.

Tier Three favours proven return. Harry Wilson is a free agent after 10 goals and seven assists for Fulham, viewed as a low-risk squad pick. Christoph Baumgartner hit 13 and supplied eight for RB Leipzig, a runner-finisher more than a creator, while Mateus Mane impressed at relegated Wolves and qualifies as homegrown for Premier League clubs via British citizenship and a Rochdale stint.

Source: NY Times