Whispers have turned into roars in the IPL grapevine. Sanju Samson to DC is now more than just idle chatter over chai. As the trade window opens wide ahead of the 2026 season, Delhi Capitals appear to be stepping up their pursuit of the Rajasthan Royals skipper. With Sanju Samson’s IPL trade rumours swirling and big names like KL Rahul thrown into the mix, we’re in for one spicy pre-auction season.

Sanju and Royals：A Love Story Losing Its Spark

It’s no longer just a rumour. Word has it that Sanju Samson has formally informed the Rajasthan Royals that he’s ready to move on. After a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign and apparent disagreements with management, he’s looking for a fresh start, ideally with a franchise that not only matches his ambition but also his brand value.

While RR have yet to release an official statement or confirm his departure, insiders suggest they’re considering options including potential trade deals. If they give him the green light, expect a scramble among the franchises. With Sanju Samson’s IPL trade rumours gaining momentum, he could become one of the hottest names on the trade table.

Enter Delhi Capitals

Among those circling? Delhi Capitals. Oh yes, the capital’s team has made no secret of their interest in the talented wicketkeeper-batsman. According to multiple reports, DC are deep in discussions internally, the only snag? They’re not quite sure who to offer in return.

🚨 DC IS INTERESTED IN SAMSON 🚨

Delhi Capitals are keen on getting Sanju Samson but they aren’t sure on which player they can trade with Rajasthan Royals. [Gaurav Gupta from TOI]

KL Rahul to KKR rumours are still strong – they really see Rahul as their solution for Captain,… pic.twitter.com/ukkAvu2wD7

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 15, 2025

The rumour mill is grinding non-stop, and Sanju Samson to DC has become one of the season’s most talked-about sagas. But don’t expect this to be a simple swap. RR will want top-tier talent in exchange, and they’ve shown before that they drive a hard bargain.

What About KL Rahul?

DC’s interest in Samson might just have knock-on effects for another major star: KL Rahul. Having joined Delhi last season and had a stellar run, Rahul has become central to their plans. With Sanju Samson’s IPL trade rumours heating up, some have speculated that Rahul could be part of a potential trade package to Rajasthan. But hold your horses, DC isn’t quite ready to let their star go. Especially when KKR have also come sniffing around, seeing Rahul as a potential captain and wicketkeeper-opener rolled into one. In our opinion, Delhi aren’t letting KL Rahul go without a fight. They reportedly turned down a KKR offer involving cash and Rovman Powell. Clearly, Rahul’s value within the DC camp remains sky-high.

🚨 𝑹𝑬𝑷𝑶𝑹𝑻𝑺 🚨

Delhi Capitals are keen to get Sanju Samson back via a trade with RR, but they aren’t sure how to make the deal. 🤔

KKR are interested in a KL Rahul who can fulfill both the wicket-keeper and opener roles. (source: Gaurav Gupta/TOI)#DC #KKR #SanjuSamson… pic.twitter.com/uqYfkfsloJ

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) October 15, 2025

Trade Window Tactics

The IPL 2026 trade window is shaping up to be a chess match. Sanju Samson to DC is very much on the cards, but both sides need to find a fair deal. Whether it involves Rahul, another marquee player, or a multi-party trade scenario. Remember, RR won’t want to lose their captain without a serious return. And Sanju Samson’s IPL trade rumours have only added pressure on both franchises to act smart and swift. Meanwhile, KL Rahul’s future…whether it remains in Delhi or takes a turn towards KKR is still very much in the balance.

Related Article：5 Scenarios That Could Decide Sanju Samson’s Next IPL Team in 2026

What Happens Next?

The official trade deadline looms in mid-November, and the auction’s pencilled in for December. Until then, there’ll be speculation, subtle leaks, and maybe even a surprise or two. So, will Sanju Samson’s IPL trade rumours become reality? Will KL Rahul stay put or be tempted by a new challenge? Just the way we like our cricket gossip.