The 2024 summer transfer window has been nothing short of dramatic.
From blockbuster signings to shocking moves, failed deals, and unexpected transfers, this window had it all. Today, we look at some of the most significant transfers of this summer and the stories behind them.
Real Madrid’s Crown Jewel Mbappé and Brazilian Wonderkid: Endrick
The biggest transfer of the summer was undoubtedly Kylian Mbappé’s move from PSG to Real Madrid on a free transfer. After a seven-year pursuit, Los Blancos finally landed their man, but it wasn’t exactly free—Madrid agreed to pay the French superstar a hefty €50 million sign-on bonus. Mbappé wasted no time making an impact, scoring in his debut during the UEFA Super Cup final against Atalanta and securing his first trophy with the club.
Real Madrid also completed the signing of Brazilian prodigy Endrick, a deal that was essentially done in December 2022 but could only be finalized after he turned 18 in July 2024. The transfer, worth €47.5 million, is a significant investment in the future, as Endrick is widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents in world football.
Manchester United’s Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee
Manchester United made headlines by beating Real Madrid to sign French teenage sensation Leny Yoro for €62 million, making him the most expensive player aged 18 or under in football history. Unfortunately, Yoro picked up an injury in preseason, delaying his debut until later in the year.
United also reunited Matthijs de Ligt with former boss Erik ten Hag, signing the Dutch defender from Bayern Munich for €45 million. De Ligt made his debut in United’s opening Premier League match against Fulham, which ended in a 1-0 victory thanks to another new signing, Joshua Zirkzee.
Joshua Zirkzee, the Nigerian-Dutch forward, joined Manchester United from Bologna for €42.5 million after a standout season in Serie A, where he helped the Italian club qualify for the Champions League for the first time in 59 years. Zirkzee announced his arrival in style, scoring the winning goal in his debut match for United.
Bayern Munich’s London Raid: João Palhinha and Michael Olise
Bayern Munich dipped into the London market, signing João Palhinha from Fulham for €51 million after a failed attempt to secure the Portuguese midfielder last year. They also swooped for Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise for €53 million, beating out Chelsea, who backed off due to the winger’s high wage demands.
Chelsea’s Busy Summer: Neto, Dewsbury-Hall, and More
Chelsea were one of the busiest clubs this summer, bringing in Pedro Neto from Wolves for €60 million, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester City for €35.4 million, and several other players, including Marc Guiu from Barcelona and Felix from Atlético Madrid for €52 million. Notably, the Felix deal saw Connor Gallagher move the other way for €42 million.
Chelsea also managed to offload Romelu Lukaku to Napoli, with former manager Antonio Conte facilitating the move for €30 million, potentially rising to €45 million with add-ons.
Juventus Strengthens with Douglas Luiz and Khéphren Thuram
Juventus made some key additions this summer, signing Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa for €51.5 million and Khéphren Thuram from Nice for €20.6 million. These signings bolster Juve’s midfield as they look to reclaim their dominance in Serie A.
AC Milan’s New Faces: Álvaro Morata and Emerson Royal
AC Milan signed Álvaro Morata for €13 million after he captained Spain to Euro 2024 glory. Morata made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut and helping Milan secure a comeback win on the opening day of the Serie A season. The Rossoneri also brought in Emerson Royal from Spurs for €15 million.
PSG’s Teen Sensations: Cher Ndour and Désiré Doué
Paris Saint-Germain also invested in youth, signing 19-year-old Cher Ndour from Benfica for €6 million and 18-year-old Désiré Doué from Rennes for €50 million. Doué has already impressed, providing four assists in his first two Ligue 1 games.
Final Thoughts
As the 2024 summer transfer window draws to a close, it’s clear that the football landscape has shifted significantly. From record-breaking deals to unexpected reunions, this window has delivered excitement and intrigue at every turn. Will there be any last-minute surprises? We’ll have to wait and see.
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