The Pro Kabaddi League transfer market is heating up ahead of PKL Season 13 in 2026. After a thrilling previous season where Dabang Delhi K.C. won the title, fans have now shifted their full attention towards the upcoming auction. Rumors around superstar players changing franchises have completely taken over social media discussions.
The biggest talking points right now involve Pawan Sehrawat, Naveen Kumar, and Arjun Deshwal potentially entering the auction pool. Team rebuild plans, retention strategies, and purse management are also becoming major topics among PKL fans.
Pawan Sehrawat transfer rumors create huge buzz
Pawan Sehrawat remains the biggest superstar in the league. The Tamil Thalaivas raider has already broken auction records in previous seasons with massive bids worth more than ₹2 crore.
Now there are strong rumors that Tamil Thalaivas could release him into the auction instead of spending a huge part of their ₹5 crore purse on retention.
If that happens, several franchises are expected to enter a bidding war. Telugu Titans and Bengaluru Bulls are reportedly interested in signing the star raider to rebuild their squads around him.
Fans believe Pawan’s availability could completely change the balance of the league next season.
Naveen Kumar could test the market
Fresh after leading Dabang Delhi to the PKL title, Naveen Kumar’s value is now at an all time high.
Reports suggest Delhi may consider a risky strategy by temporarily releasing Naveen into the auction and then using their Final Bid Match card to buy him back. This move would help them understand his true market price while also saving retention slots for other players.
However, the plan also carries risk because rival teams could raise his price beyond Delhi’s budget.
Naveen remains one of the most successful raiders in PKL history and his future is currently one of the biggest stories in kabaddi.
Arjun Deshwal linked with major franchises
Another superstar attracting huge attention is Jaipur Pink Panthers raider Arjun Deshwal.
Jaipur Pink Panthers are reportedly planning a fresh rebuild with younger players. Because of this, Arjun may enter the auction pool for the first time in years.
If Jaipur release him, teams like U Mumba and UP Yoddhas are expected to push hard for his signature.
New FBM rules change auction strategies
The updated Final Bid Match rules are also creating massive debate ahead of the PKL 2026 auction.
Teams can now use a two season FBM option instead of just one season. This means franchises can lock in a superstar for a longer period, making retention decisions even more important.
The retention system has also forced teams to think carefully. Franchises retaining fewer elite players will receive more FBM cards, giving them extra flexibility during the auction.
Team rebuilds becoming major focus
Several teams are expected to completely rebuild their squads before Season 13.
Telugu Titans may release most of their current roster and target an elite raider. Bengaluru Bulls are reportedly planning a stronger defensive unit instead of depending on one superstar. Patna Pirates could use multiple FBM cards to retain key players while keeping their purse flexible.
With big names possibly changing teams, the PKL 2026 auction is already becoming one of the hottest topics in Indian sports.
