It would be the first time it is held in a summer when a major international tournament is played, and is bound to raise more questions about player workload.
Global players’ union Fifpro said Liverpool and Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo was involved in 71 competitive games for club and country in 2024, more than any other player.
The number of games being played has increased over the past couple of seasons following the recent expansion of European club and international tournaments.
This summer’s World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, with the final due to be played on 19 July.
The Premier League has confirmed the 2026-27 season will not begin until 22 August.
In theory, it could mean a three-match Summer Series could be held between 1 and 8 August, leaving a two-week recovery gap, as was afforded for United, Everton, Bournemouth and West Ham this summer.
That would mean any player whose country is eliminated in the last 16 of the World Cup could have a mandatory three-week break and return for the start of pre-season training for almost a week before the Summer Series begins.
