The summer transfer window for the 2025/26 season is in full swing, and clubs across Europe are actively reshaping their squads with significant deals, high-profile rumors, and a few surprising moves. Here’s a rundown of the latest
Major Confirmed Transfers & Big Spenders
Several big-money moves have already been finalized, with Premier League clubs leading the spending:
- Liverpool has made a significant statement with the acquisition of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported £116 million. They’ve also brought in Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth (£40m) and Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen (£29.5m).
- Manchester United has secured Matheus Cunha from Wolves for a substantial £62.5 million, and teenage Paraguayan defender Diego Leon from Cerro Porteno for £7 million.
- Chelsea continues their active transfer policy, signing João Pedro from Brighton for £60 million and Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund for £51.5 million. They also landed Liam Delap from Ipswich for £30 million and Estevao Willian from Palmeiras for £29.1 million.
- Arsenal has completed the signing of midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in a £51 million deal. They’ve also brought in Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea for £5 million.
- Manchester City has added Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan (£46.3m), Rayan Ait Nouri from Wolves (£36.3m), and Rayan Cherki from Lyon (£34m) to their ranks.
- Real Madrid has secured Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth for £50 million and Franco Mastantuono from River Plate for £45 million.
- Tottenham Hotspur has brought in Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich (£29.8m) and Kevin Danso from RC Lens (£20.9m).
Key Transfer Sagas and Rumors
The rumor mill is buzzing with several high-stakes sagas yet to be resolved:
- Victor Osimhen’s Galatasaray Saga Nears Conclusion: After a highly successful loan spell at Galatasaray, where he netted 37 goals in 41 appearances, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is reportedly set to make his move permanent. Galatasaray has reportedly agreed to meet Napoli’s €75 million (£64.5 million) release clause, with personal terms already agreed. While the payment structure (installments) is still being finalized, Osimhen has reportedly pushed Napoli to seal the deal quickly, opting for a return to Istanbul despite interest from other major European clubs and Saudi Arabian sides.
- Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal: Arsenal is reportedly very close to finalizing a deal for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres. Personal terms are said to be agreed, with only the fee structure left to be sorted between the clubs.
- Bryan Mbeumo’s Future: Manchester United has reopened negotiations with Brentford regarding Bryan Mbeumo, who has reportedly told Brentford he only wants to join United.
- Eberechi Eze’s Race: Arsenal and Tottenham are reportedly battling for the signature of Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze. Spurs have already had a bid for Mohammed Kudus rejected by West Ham, indicating their intent in the attacking midfield area.
- Jadon Sancho’s Next Move: Jadon Sancho is reportedly willing to take a significant pay cut to join Juventus, but Manchester United’s asking price remains a sticking point. He has also been linked with a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Fenerbahce.
- Liverpool’s Luis Diaz: Despite recent confirmed signings, Luis Diaz remains a key target for Barcelona, who have reportedly seen two approaches rejected by Liverpool.
- Luka Modric to AC Milan: The veteran Croatian midfielder is reportedly set to join AC Milan after his long and illustrious spell at Real Madrid concludes following the Club World Cup.
- Departures at Manchester United: Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho are facing potential exits from Old Trafford. Christian Eriksen, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof have already departed at the end of their contracts.
- Newcastle’s Ambitions: Newcastle United are actively pursuing Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest, with a deal reportedly close. They are also said to be in talks with former Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a free transfer.
Notable Free Agents and Other Moves
Several established players are available on free transfers, offering clubs a chance to strengthen without transfer fees:
- Kevin De Bruyne has been released by Manchester City and is reportedly heading to Napoli.
- Jonathan David has joined Juventus on a free transfer after his contract with Lille expired.
- Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg has moved from Tottenham to Marseille for £17 million.
- Thomas Partey’s contract at Arsenal is running down, with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and Saudi clubs reportedly interested.
- Jamie Vardy has left Leicester City after a legendary career and is looking for a new club.
- Jean-Clair Todibo made his loan move to West Ham permanent from Nice for £35 million.
The soccer world continues to be a hotbed of activity, promising an exciting remainder of the year for fans across the globe.