As Premier League clubs continue their search for reinforcements ahead of the 2026/27 season, several potential solutions may already be on their books. A number of players returning from loan spells have impressed away from their parent clubs and could be worth reconsidering rather than being moved on permanently.
Marcus Rashford’s situation at Manchester United remains one of the most intriguing stories of the summer. After loan spells at Aston Villa and Barcelona helped revive his form, questions remain over why a permanent move has not materialised. Despite previous tensions with former manager Ruben Amorim, Rashford rediscovered his confidence and delivered a strong return of goals and assists. With United still needing quality options on the left flank, bringing the England forward back into the fold could prove more cost-effective than spending heavily on a replacement of similar quality.
At Tottenham Hotspur, highly-rated Croatian defender Luka Vuskovic is expected to return after continuing his rapid development. The 19-year-old has attracted significant attention across Europe and is already valued among the continent’s most promising young centre-backs. With uncertainty surrounding the futures of several Spurs defenders, including Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven, Vuskovic could offer a long-term solution if given an opportunity in north London.
Chelsea will have decisions to make regarding Nicolas Jackson following his loan spell at Bayern Munich. Although he spent much of his time in Germany playing behind Harry Kane, the Senegal international still possesses qualities that could make him valuable under new manager Xabi Alonso. Jackson’s record of 30 goals and 12 assists in 81 Chelsea appearances highlights his attacking contribution, while his movement and work rate often created opportunities for teammates. Alonso is expected to assess the striker before making a final decision on his future.
Nottingham Forest striker Arnaud Kalimuendo is another player seeking clarity. Signed from Rennes after a productive season in France, he was surprisingly given limited opportunities before being loaned to Eintracht Frankfurt, where he became a regular contributor. The French forward now faces an uncertain future, but Forest could benefit from giving him a genuine chance to establish himself after barely featuring during his first spell at the club.
Chelsea academy graduate Tyrique George also returns after an underwhelming loan stint at Everton. Limited minutes restricted his development on Merseyside, but the winger remains highly regarded at Stamford Bridge. Given Chelsea’s history of allowing young talents to leave before fully evaluating their potential, George could be one of the players who deserves a closer look during pre-season.
Brighton defender Diego Coppola is another name worth watching. After joining from Hellas Verona and spending the second half of last season on loan at Paris FC, the Italian centre-back gained valuable experience with regular football in France. With Brighton potentially losing key defensive figures, Coppola could emerge as a useful option capable of succeeding veteran captain Lewis Dunk in the years ahead.
Fellow Brighton player Carl Rushworth also strengthened his reputation during a successful loan spell with Coventry City. The goalkeeper impressed consistently and has attracted significant interest from clubs seeking a permanent deal. However, Brighton may decide his future depends on whether current first-choice goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen remains at the club. If Verbruggen departs, Rushworth could be ready to compete for a starting role.
Manchester City’s Vitor Reis rounds out the list. The Brazilian defender enjoyed a productive loan spell at Girona, where his composure in possession, passing accuracy and ability to play in a high defensive line earned praise. His performances have drawn comparisons to former City defender John Stones, and with a new managerial era underway, Reis may finally get the opportunity to prove himself at the Etihad Stadium.
As clubs look to strengthen ahead of another demanding campaign, some of the smartest additions may not require expensive transfer fees. For these returning loanees, pre-season could represent the perfect chance to prove they belong at their parent clubs.
