Sanju Samson-Delhi Capitals deal accelerated rapidly, where will KL Rahul go?

The IPL 2026 trading window is currently wide and open, with two prominent names – Sanju Samson and KL Rahul – making the rounds for key swaps. Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have shown interest in the major trade.

Sanju Samson has already expressed his desire to part ways with Rajasthan Royals (RR) after a difficult IPL 2025 season. Samson is said to have informed the team management of his decision to explore new opportunities immediately after the season ended in June.

Sanju Samson and KL Rahul are gearing up for a possible IPL 2026 swap

One of the main reasons behind the Indian wicket-keeper’s decision is the growing difference of opinion with the team management. Additionally, Samson is keen to join a more popular franchise that could help expand his personal brand.

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As reported by a Times of India journalist, Delhi Capitals (DC) are targeting Sanju Samson to strengthen their squad. On the other hand, KL Rahul, who joined Capitals last season, is said to be on the radar of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a potential leadership role.

Sanju Samson is likely to join Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals, who are looking for a new captain after Rishabh Pant’s departure to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), are said to be in talks with Samson for the captain’s role ahead of IPL 2026. Discussions are ongoing, and both parties are said to be keen on the move.

Notably, Samson had already played for the Delhi franchise in the IPL before joining RR. Earlier, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) had shown interest in Samson, but Rajasthan Royals reportedly asked for either Ravindra Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad in return, and the franchise was rejected.

KKR eyeing KL Rahul in trade talks ahead of IPL auction

Meanwhile, KL Rahul, who had a fantastic season for DC in IPL 2025, is said to be a target for Kolkata Knight Riders. KKR are keen to acquire Rahul’s services and have reportedly sent tentacles for the move. The reason behind this is the right-hander’s impressive performance in IPL 2025, where he scored 539 runs at a strike rate of nearly 150.

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Well, KKR is said to be interested in acquiring Rahul through a trade deal and is even considering making him their captain. They look at Rahul as an opening batsman and wicket-keeper.

However, DC is said to be not ready to part ways with Rahul and has rejected KKR’s cash offer as well as Rovman Powell. Delhi sees Rahul as a key player and has no plans to release him.

A Times of India journalist,

some #IptoRpADeShpDARe
Delhi Capitals are keen to include Sanju Samson in their squad. However, they are not sure which player they can replace with RR. Meanwhile, the KL Rahul to KKR rumors remain strong as the team truly sees KL as the answer for the captain, opener and perhaps

– Gaurav Gupta (@toi_gauravG) HeyCRSforep 15, 2025

Notably, the IPL 2026 auction is likely to be held between December 13 and 15. While the IPL Governing Council has not officially announced the dates, this is the expected period for the auction. On the other hand, the deadline to retain players is November 15.