The new football season is upon us, and with it, a wave of exciting player transfers across Europe’s top leagues. While Kylian Mbappe’s free transfer to Real Madrid last month sent shockwaves through the footballing world, the transfer window was filled with countless other big-money deals, setting the stage for a thrilling season ahead.
The English Premier League once again dominated overall spending, surpassing $2.4 billion, with Chelsea leading the way with an impressive $290 million outlay. Italy’s Serie A also saw a significant boost in spending, exceeding the $1 billion mark for the second time in recent years, solidifying its position as the second-highest spender in Europe. La Liga, the Spanish league, lagged behind the other big five, finishing the window just under $600 million. With the introduction of the new Champions League format for the 2024-25 season, top teams are set for more frequent clashes throughout the year, making these new signings even more impactful.
As the summer transfer window slams shut, Sportstar takes a look at the top 10 signings across Europe’s top five leagues:
1. Kylian Mbappe – Real Madrid:
Real Madrid pulled off the transfer of the decade by securing Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer. After his contract with PSG expired, the French superstar, with an impressive 334 goals and 157 assists to his name, chose to join the Spanish giants. At just 25 years old, Mbappe boasts an impressive trophy cabinet, having won 15 titles with Paris Saint-Germain and the FIFA World Cup with France, solidifying his status as the world’s most sought-after player.
2. Julian Alvarez – Atletico Madrid:
Julian Alvarez, a World Cup and Copa America winner, made the move to Atletico Madrid this summer after struggling to secure consistent playing time at Manchester City due to the presence of Erling Haaland as the first-choice forward. The 24-year-old Argentinian is a versatile attacker, known for his pace, skills, and ability to connect with his teammates. He is also capable of playing as a playmaker, making him a valuable asset for Atletico. Alvarez is poised to be a frontrunner for the Puskar award this season in La Liga.
3. Dani Olmo – Barcelona:
Dani Olmo’s impressive performance at Euro 2024, where he helped Spain win the championship, made him one of the hottest names during the summer transfer window. Despite his desire to leave RB Leipzig last season, Olmo chose to stay due to the club’s lack of attacking midfielders after the departure of key players. Now, the former La Masia academy product has returned to his roots and is already making an impact for Barcelona, scoring a goal in La Liga.
4. Riccardo Calafiori – Arsenal:
Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal’s new defensive rock, could prove to be a crucial factor in the Gunners’ success in the Premier League and Europe this season. Calafiori, who previously played for Bologna in Serie A, represented Italy at the Euros, and has signed a five-year contract with Arsenal. His defensive prowess could be pivotal in solidifying Arsenal’s backline.
5. Michael Olise – Bayern Munich:
FC Bayern Munich secured the services of forward Michael Olise from Crystal Palace on a five-year contract. The 22-year-old French right-winger, born in London, impressed last season, recording 10 goals and six assists in 19 Premier League appearances. His contributions were crucial in helping Crystal Palace achieve a top-half finish in the Premier League, a feat they hadn’t achieved in nine years. Bayern, who narrowly missed out on the Bundesliga title last season due to Leverkusen’s impressive unbeaten run, have strengthened their attack with this significant signing.
6. Pedro Neto – Chelsea:
Chelsea made a total of 11 transfers during the window, with the biggest acquisition being the arrival of winger Pedro Neto from Wolves. The 24-year-old enjoyed a successful season with Wolves, contributing to 11 goals in 20 Premier League appearances. Chelsea’s signing of Neto is a long-term investment, as the Portuguese winger has signed a seven-year contract.
7. Ilkay Gundogan – Manchester City:
Ilkay Gundogan left Manchester City for Barcelona in the summer of 2023 after helping them win the treble. However, he made a surprising return to the Etihad Stadium after just one season in Spain, joining on a free transfer. Gundogan returns to City having won 14 major trophies, including five Premier League titles and the Champions League. He also made 51 appearances for Barcelona, contributing to their second-place finish in La Liga.
8. Matthijs de Ligt – Manchester United:
Manchester United’s defensive woes could be addressed with the arrival of Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt. At the young age of 25, de Ligt has already won league titles in three countries with Ajax, Juventus, and Bayern Munich. He reunites with his former manager, Erik ten Hag, and has signed a contract until 2029 with an option to extend. The former Kopa Trophy and Golden Boy winner has made 324 club appearances and earned 45 international caps.
9. Federico Chiesa – Liverpool:
Arguably the biggest bargain of the transfer window is the acquisition of Juventus and Italy’s star winger, Federico Chiesa. Although Chiesa has been plagued by injuries and couldn’t shine at Euro 2024, his exceptional talent is undeniable. The 26-year-old has scored 61 goals and provided 37 assists in his career to date.
10. Douglas Luiz – Juventus:
Another big-money signing during the window was the transfer of central midfielder Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa to Juventus on a five-year contract. At Villa, Luiz impressed with 22 goals and 24 assists in 204 appearances. He is also a regular starter for the Brazilian national team. This transfer is a testament to Juventus’ ambition to rebuild their squad and return to the top of the Serie A standings.
With the summer transfer window now closed, the stage is set for an electrifying new season of European football. The influx of talent and ambition across Europe’s top leagues promises an unforgettable journey filled with compelling matches, stunning goals, and perhaps even a few surprises along the way.
