Nine World Cup stars Coventry City could sign this summer after Frank Lampard scouting mission

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Coventry City face a stern test as they look to cement their place in the Premier League following promotion from the Championship. Promoted clubs have been forced to splash out upwards of £100million in recent years simply to stand a fighting chance of staying up.

Frank Lampard is open to reinforcements in most areas, though his most pressing needs are at left-back, centre-back and out wide. The goalkeeping position also demands attention.

Last season's number one Carl Rushworth has headed back to parent club Brighton following his loan stint, with City still keen to sign him permanently after having one offer knocked back by the Seagulls.

Lampard is currently in the United States scouting potential recruits. Speaking on Gary Lineker's The Rest is Football show, the Sky Blues boss said: "The World Cup is a great stage to look at players, so we're looking across the spectrum of players, but yeah, we're looking at that." With that in mind, here is a selection of World Cup stars that Coventry could potentially set their sights on...

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If Coventry are unable to secure a deal for Rushworth, they could turn their attention to the Championship for a player managed by ex-Sky Blues boss Mark Robins. The Sweden international was Stoke City's first-choice goalkeeper last season before a severe shoulder injury ruled him out for four months.

He made his comeback towards the end of the campaign, in time to earn a place in Sweden's World Cup squad, where he is serving as understudy to Kristoffer Nordfeldt, who is 36 and likely competing in his final World Cup. Johansson, 27, who has won 12 caps for his nation, recently signed a new contract at Stoke, meaning he wouldn't come cheap.

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The Australia defender, 30, featured in every single minute of the Championship campaign for Swansea City following his move from Ipswich Town. Significantly, the Australia international possesses Premier League experience, having turned out for the Tractor Boys in the top flight during 2024/25. City could offer his final opportunity at Premier League football.

The Norwich City defender, 24, will have the opportunity to display his abilities to a broader English audience when he takes to the field for Panama against England next weekend. Having established himself as a Canaries regular, Cordoba would embrace the opportunity to make the leap to the highest level at club level.

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The Burnley star is available on a free after his contract expired and is currently fully focused on his World Cup campaign with DR Congo , who impressively held Portugal to a 1-1 draw in their opening fixture. Injury limited the 28-year-old to just 16 appearances in the season just completed.

Paik has been the driving force in Birmingham City's midfield since putting pen to paper in January 2024. The 29-year-old is equally integral to his national side, having started both of their matches so far.

While the Blues are ambitious, Premier League football remains out of reach for now. This summer could represent Paik's best opportunity to make that leap.

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The West Ham midfielder, who spent last season on loan at Fenerbahce, reportedly has no desire to return to the relegated Hammers. The 28-year-old is guaranteed at least two further games at the tournament after helping Mexico become the first nation to clinch a place in the knockout stages. He could come up against England in the last 16 before turning his attention to his club future, which remains uncertain.

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It is widely expected that the Tunisia and Burnley star will be moving on after the World Cup. The 23-year-old was one of the rare bright sparks during the Clarets' latest relegation campaign and would represent an astute signing for any of the Premier League's new boys.

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The Japan star has spent his career so far in Spain , shining at Real Sociedad since 2022. Having been linked with numerous clubs, he could depart this summer. A right-sided winger who favours cutting inside onto his left foot.

One of Africa's most exciting talents, the 21-year-old is being strongly linked with a switch to Europe. Mofokeng, who plays for Orlando Pirates in the South African Premiership, made his World Cup bow against the Czech Republic , helping his nation claim a 1-1 draw that kept their knockout hopes alive.