Why half of England's World Cup defenders are on the move

England's World Cup performance this summer marked their best in men's international football in 60 years, leading to increased transfer market interest from their 27 players who ventured to North America. Seven of the squad's defenders have moved clubs this summer, along with two more linked to transfer activity. Among these defenders, midfielders Morgan Rogers and Elliot Anderson made high-profile deals, with the latter costing £116 million in a move from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City.

Winger Anthony Gordon transferred from Newcastle to Barcelona for almost £70 million, while midfielder Jordan Henderson completed a free transfer from Brentford to Chelsea.

The most surprising aspect of these moves is the relatively low prices offered for England's defenders. For instance, Tottenham full-back Djed Spence is nearing a £25.6 million transfer to Inter Milan, despite his strong showing in the World Cup. Back-up goalkeeper James Trafford signed for Leeds in a £45 million deal from Manchester City.

Four of England's World Cup defenders, including Spence, John Stones, Ezri Konsa, and Trevoh Chalobah, appear set to move clubs this summer, with six of the nine defenders potentially switching teams in less than a year.

Defenders on the move such as Spence, Stones, Konsa, and Chalobah have shown impressive performances in the World Cup, making them attractive targets for other clubs. For example, midfielder Chalobah, who has been at Chelsea since he was eight, is moving to Italian side Como, where he'll have guaranteed first-team football. Meanwhile, Spurs full-back Spence, 26, might only cost Inter Milan £25.6 million, despite finishing 17th last season and only securing Premier League survival on the final day.