Australia’s post-World Cup transfer activity is highlighted as a positive sign for the Socceroos, with several young internationals securing moves that could accelerate their development before January’s Asian Cup. Nestory Irankunda is nearing a switch from Watford to Sporting Lisbon, while Lucas Herrington is expected to join Premier League newcomers Hull City from Colorado Rapids.

Herrington, 18, could command a fee exceeding Australia’s current transfer record of $38.3m, while Irankunda’s reported deal is worth about $25m plus add-ons. Six members of Australia’s 26-player World Cup squad have already changed clubs, with further moves possible for players including Paul Izzo and Harry Souttar; veteran winger Awer Mabil has instead returned to Australia, joining Melbourne City after a decade in Europe.