The World Cup Accelerant

Ayase Ueda was already attracting serious attention before a ball was kicked at the 2026 World Cup. Now, his stock has risen even further. The Japanese striker delivered a standout performance as Japan beat Tunisia 4-0, scoring twice and adding an assist. Clubs from England and Germany are watching closely. Approaches are already taking place.

Feyenoord have known this moment was coming. Ueda leads the Eredivisie this season with 26 goals across all competitions from just 39 appearances. That is not a player you hold onto quietly. His contract runs until 2028, but the club are open to selling this summer if the price is right.

Feyenoord want between 30 and 35 million euros. That figure was set before the World Cup started. Every strong performance in North America pushes it higher. The gap between what clubs are offering and what Feyenoord demand remains significant, but it is closing fast.

Premier League Race Heats Up

Multiple Premier League clubs have registered concrete interest. Everton lead the race, with reports suggesting they are preparing a bid. Tottenham have done their background work. Leeds United hope compatriot Ao Tanaka gives them an edge in conversations with the player. Brighton have sent scouts.

Everton’s initial valuation sits around 21 to 23 million euros. That falls well short of Feyenoord’s asking price. Somebody will need to move closer to Rotterdam’s number before a deal gets done.

Bundesliga clubs are also in the picture. Multiple approaches from Germany have already been made, adding further competition to what is becoming one of the summer window’s most contested striker pursuits.

Ueda arrived from Cercle Brugge in 2023 for eight million euros. He struggled initially, managing just 12 goals across his first two seasons. This campaign changed everything. His World Cup cameo has now changed it again.

For the full picture on this summer’s striker market, visit KCPredict’s transfer hub. Ueda’s full profile and career stats are available on Transfermarkt.