With the new season underway, the EFL transfer window has been a hive of activity, with nearly 600 player movements.
As we approach the final weeks before the deadline, 12 days to be exact, top-flight teams are making their final pushes for last-minute signings, and a number of EFL stars are hot commodities.
Here’s a look at a few players whose futures are the subject of ongoing speculation, and where they might land – even if we’d prefer to see them stay for our Fantasy EFL teams!
Abdul Fatawu (F) – Leicester City
Sunderland are reportedly preparing a £28 million bid for the Ghana international, who the Foxes value at £30 million.
The move would add to Sunderland’s significant £141.5 million spending this transfer window as they aim to become a dominant force in the Premier League.
Marti Cifuentes’ side have already sold key assets, including Mads Hermansen for £20 million and Wilfred Ndidi for £9 million.
The Ghana international was pivotal in the 23/24 title win with 19 goal contributions, but has yet to provide an attacking return this season. He’s scored just seven points in Fantasy EFL thus far.
Bilal El Khannouss (M) – Leicester City
An unsurprising transfer saga is brewing in the EFL.
One of the league’s hottest properties is expected to be a constant source of rumours as long as he remains in the second tier.
The latest talk is that Crystal Palace have approached the Foxes for the 21-year-old.
This move could potentially free up funds for Palace and provide them with much-needed attacking cover if Eberechi Eze leaves Selhurst Park.
The Moroccan joined last summer and has demonstrated his class as one of the team’s standout performers.
He was the standout in against Sheffield Wednesday in their season opener, scoring 17 points in Gameweek 2. This impressive performance included two assists (+6) and three interceptions (+6).
Newcastle United and Leeds United are also reportedly interested in the number 11.
Gustavo Hamer (M) – Sheffield United
Following their heartbreaking play-off loss, it appeared inevitable that star player Hamer would depart for a new club.
He was a pivotal figure in their successful campaign, contributing 18 goals and assists, and even setting up a goal in the final.
This season, however, he hasn’t quite met expectations, managing only six points in two games as Ruben Selles’ team has suffered back-to-back defeats.
While Leeds United and PSV have been mentioned as potential destinations, a transfer seems less likely now.
Given his attacking role, the club’s best chance to cash in was before now. It would be a surprise to see him leave Bramall Lane this summer without a significant bid being made.
Hayden Hackney (M) – Middlesbrough
The 23-year-old scored his first goal of the season in Gameweek 2, returning his first double-digit score, in their 3-0 win over Millwall (A).
He was a standout in midfield last season for Boro, registering eight goal contributions. Notably, he made the most successful passes in the second tier, and was Boro’s standout in a poor campaign.
Despite an agreed £20 million bid between Ipswich Town and Hackney, the Tractor Boys couldn’t agree terms despite having the offer accepted.
Everton, Crystal Palace, West Ham, Fulham and Spurs are all keeping tabs on the number seven. With the number of options, it wouldn’t be a shock if he moves.
“I’ve said it before, it’s win-win either way. But I’m not really thinking about it right now. I see him as being here and a big part of this group. It’s win-win either way. His performance today was excellent and he got the goal. I think he loves this club.” – Rob Edwards’ comments following Hayden Hackney’s standout performance against Millwall and potential sale
Bobby Thomas (D) – Coventry City
Sheffield United reportedly made an £8 million bid for the centre-back, who has interest from Brentford and Burnley now.
The Sky Blues turned down the offer, and it remains to be seen if it will be accepted. He’s scored 19 points on Fantasy EFL, providing two goal contributions (+10) against Derby County in their 5-3 win (A).
Last season, he scored 223 points in 48 games, and was a pivotal reason they made the play-offs.
The 24-year-old is hot property and may not call the CBS Arena his home for much longer.
Josh Sargent (F) – Norwich City
After his impressive performance last season, the American international has started this one just as strong, scoring in both games and accumulating 17 total points for the Canaries.
This summer, Liam Manning’s team had an agreement in place with Wolfsburg for a transfer, but Sargent turned it down.
Leeds United and Burnley have been keeping an eye on him, but neither side have pounced, yet.
Sargent will likely be looking for a significant move to strengthen his position in the national squad before the World Cup. He was notably left off the Gold Cup roster by Mauricio Pochettino.
Regarding the situation, Manning said:
“I’m hoping Ben (Knapper, Norwich’s director of football) turns his phone off so we don’t get any calls. Sarge role models everything you want. He’s a top person, a top professional. You see his work rate and how he leads by example. He’s top class.”
