Axel Tuanzebe is considering offers from clubs in the Saudi Pro League and the English Premier League after impressing for the Democratic Republic of the Congo at the 2026 World Cup.
The former Manchester United defender is a free agent and can join a new club without a transfer fee this summer, following the end of his contract with Burnley.
Reliable journalist Ben Jacobs reports that several Saudi Pro League clubs are competing with Premier League sides for the 28-year-old’s signature. Everton and Brentford are among the English clubs understood to be interested in securing his services.
Tuanzebe was one of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s standout players during their historic first appearance at the 2026 World Cup, staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico. He played an important role as his side progressed beyond the group stage before they were narrowly beaten by England.
His performances at the tournament have increased the attention surrounding his next move, with interest arriving from both Saudi Arabia and England. The defender is now assessing the proposals available to him as he considers where to continue his career.
Saudi Pro League clubs are keen to complete a deal for Tuanzebe without paying a transfer fee. However, they face competition from Everton and Brentford, who are also examining the possibility of signing the former Manchester United player.
Tuanzebe began his professional career at Manchester United, having developed through the club’s academy. He made a number of first-team appearances for the Old Trafford side, but spent significant periods away from the club on loan.
Those temporary moves took him to Aston Villa, Napoli and Stoke City as he sought regular first-team football and further senior experience.
The defender later represented Ipswich Town between 2023 and 2025. He then joined Burnley during last summer’s transfer window, but his time at the club ended after Burnley were relegated from the Premier League.
That departure left Tuanzebe available as a free agent, allowing interested clubs to negotiate directly with him rather than arranging a transfer with Burnley. His World Cup campaign has now placed him at the centre of a contest involving clubs from two different leagues.
The next decision will determine whether Tuanzebe returns to the Premier League, where Everton and Brentford are among his suitors, or moves to the Saudi Pro League. For now, the 28-year-old is weighing up the offers that have arrived after his important contribution to the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s World Cup campaign.
