Axel Tuanzebe available for free as Saudi Pro League and Premier League clubs consider move

Axel Tuanzebe is considering offers from Saudi Pro League and Premier League clubs after his impressive campaign with DR Congo at the 2026 World Cup.

The 28-year-old defender is a free agent following the end of his contract with Burnley, meaning interested clubs can sign him without paying a transfer fee during the current summer window.

According to trusted journalist Ben Jacobs, a number of Saudi Pro League sides have entered the race for the former Manchester United player. However, they face competition from the Premier League, with Everton and Brentford among the clubs understood to be interested.

Tuanzebe was one of DR Congo’s standout performers at the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. He played a central role as his country progressed beyond the group stage at the first time of asking in their history.

DR Congo’s tournament eventually ended with a narrow defeat by England, but Tuanzebe’s performances increased attention on his situation at club level. He is now assessing the proposals that have arrived since the conclusion of the competition.

The defender began his career at Manchester United, having come through the club’s academy. He made several first-team appearances for the Old Trafford side before spending time away from the club on loan.

His temporary moves took him to Aston Villa, Napoli and Stoke City as he sought regular first-team football and further senior experience.

Tuanzebe later joined Ipswich Town, where he played between 2023 and 2025. He moved to Burnley in 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 to negotiate directly with potential new clubs. Saudi Pro League teams are keen to secure his services on a free transfer, while Everton and Brentford provide competition from England’s top division.

The defender’s next move will therefore be decided after discussions over the offers currently on the table. His recent World Cup involvement, combined with his experience of English football and his availability without a fee, has made him a target for clubs in both leagues.

Tuanzebe has yet to decide where he will continue his career, but the interest from Saudi Arabia and the Premier League gives him several options during the summer transfer window.