As the 2025/26 season approaches and the summer transfer window rolls around, Southampton, Leicester City and Ipswich Town all find themselves relegated back down to the Championship after spending just a year back in the top flight. For all three clubs, a summer of difficult decisions lie ahead, with the reality of losing key players certainly being something the sides are factoring in when balancing their squad rebuilds.
However, there are several standout individuals in which relegation might only be a short detour for them before making a return to the Premier League in the 2025/26 campaign. From highly rumoured moves to high profile names who certainly possess top flight quantity, we have selected a handful of players who are most likely to be back in the Premier League sooner rather than later.
Tyler Dibling
Still just 19 years old, Tyler Dibling was arguably the shining light for Southampton in an otherwise dismal season. One of the most technically gifted academy graduates in recent years, the young winger made a total of 34 appearances last campaign, scoring twice and assisting another.
Although the stats aren’t mind blowing, it was his flashes of brilliance with the ball which have already piqued the interest of many top sides. Premier League clubs such as Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham are all rumoured to want the young Englihsman. However, as Southampton have set a comically high £100 million asking price for the starlet, it still remains unclear what type of big money move Dibling will demand, with his odds for joining different sides varying across matched betting sites.
Leif Davis
Throughout the season which saw Ipswich Town finish 18th, left back Leif Davis was one of the most consistent performers for his side. Pinpoint deliveries from the Englishman were related down the left flank and due to his attacking threat and raw pace, the 25-year-old has already gained the attention of Nottingham Forest. A quoted minimum of £20 million is his price tag. The full back who has picked up over 40 goal contributions with his time at the Tractor Boys could be in high demand for sides looking to add depth and attacking threat to their defence. As Liam Delap has already sealed a move from Ipswich to Chelsea, Davis could be the next to secure a return to the top tier.
Bilal El Khannouss
Due to a relegation release clause in his contract, Moroccan youngster Bilal El Khannouss is repeatedly available for £22 million for any Premier League sides looking to secure his services for the upcoming 2025/26 season. With the departing Matheus Cunha, Wolves are looking to replace him with the Leicster playmaker who picked up 5 goal contributions.
Although the Foxes were far from an attacking threat last year, setting a record for the most losses without scoring a goal consecutively, El Khannouss reminded a bright spark in their forward line.
Aaron Ramsdale
Aaron Ramsdale’s story is one of highs and lows. After falling out of favour at Arsenal and making the switch to Southamptopm, his move saw him suffer yet another Premier League relegation, his third to be exact. Following previous relegations with Bournemouth and Sheffield United, the England goalkeeper has still proven himself to be a reliable shot stopper, being highly capable in between the sticks as well as a leader from the back.
As several clubs are in need of a strong, reliable and homegrown goalkeeper, they could be tempted to offer him a return to the Premier League. Experience matters for this position in particular, and due to Ramsdale having it in abundance, teams such as West Ham and even Aston Villa are rumoured to have interest.
Wilfred Ndidi
Despite Leicester’s collective struggles over the years, Wilfred Ndidi has reminded an ever present industrious figure in the midfield of the Foxes. Last season in particular, the Nigerian international, more known for his defensive capabilities, played in a slightly advanced role, picking up five assists across the season.
Having just a £9 million release clause, Manchester United are eyeing a move for the 28 year old all rounder, offering a blend of experience and tenacity. This could also see him a good fit for many other mid table Premier League sides or any of the other newly promoted outfits who need some more stability in the engine room.
Mateus Fernandes
One of Southampton’s more under the radar acquisitions last season was Mateus Fernandes, impressing in the middle of the park for the Saints due to his physicality and technical flair. At just 20 years old, the Portuguese player boasts excellent control and composure beyond his years, seeing him earn many plaudits and even a U21 Portugal call up.
Although he might not be the finished article as of yet, Fernandes certainly possesses all the right attributes to grow into a Premier League regular. So much so that Crystal Palace are rumoured to have a strong interest in the youngster, with Southampton currently playing hardball over their £30 million asking price.
