The 2025 summer transfer window has already given us plenty of drama, surprises, and jaw-dropping price tags.
While some clubs — yes, we’re looking at you, Manchester United — can’t seem to avoid overpaying, others have been quietly securing absolute gems for next to nothing. Here are the 9 best bargain deals so far.
1. Granit Xhaka → Sunderland AFC
Seeing Granit Xhaka back in England is a pleasant surprise, but his return with a newly promoted side was not on anyone’s bingo card! The former Arsenal captain left Bayer 04 Leverkusen — where he helped them win their first-ever Bundesliga title — for just £13M upfront + £4M add-ons. Erik ten Hag reportedly begged Leverkusen not to sell him, but Xhaka “craved the chance to lead a hungry, promoted side.” A machine in midfield for a fraction of his value.
2. Kevin De Bruyne → SSC Napoli
It was bound to happen eventually, but Kevin De Bruyne leaving Manchester City abruptly shocked everyone — including himself. City decided it was “best for business” to let their legend go, and Napoli pounced… for free. He now links up with Scott McTominay and Romelu Lukaku in a midfield that could terrify Europe.
3. Rayan Cherki → Manchester City
The “next Eden Hazard” finally leaves Olympique Lyonnais for €36.5M + €6M add-ons, just under his €45M valuation. Last season: 42 appearances, 12 goals, 19 assists, and Ligue 1’s best expected assists per 90. Pep Guardiola has added another creative monster to his squad.
4. Cristhian Mosquera → Arsenal FC
Mikel Arteta knows William Saliba could soon be heading to Real Madrid, so he’s already planned ahead. Mosquera arrives from Valencia for €15M + €5M add-ons, a huge steal for one of the best young centre-backs in the world. Could be a defensive cornerstone for the next decade.
5. Jonathan Tah → FC Bayern Munich
FC Barcelona hesitated, and Bayern swooped in. For €800K + minor add-ons, Bayern have secured a player worth €30M just so he could join in time for the FIFA Club World Cup. Tah now slots into one of the strongest squads in Europe, almost guaranteed silverware.
6. Trent Alexander-Arnold → Real Madrid
The most predictable move of the summer, yet the price was stunning — €10M for a player valued at €75M. Liverpool FC fans are furious, but Trent will now battle Dani Carvajal for the starting right-back spot at the Bernabéu.
7. Jonathan David → Juventus FC
After years of €50–70M rumours, Jonathan David leaves LOSC Lille for free. Juventus get a proven Ligue 1 goal-scorer — 16 goals and 5 assists last season — without paying a cent in transfer fees.
8. Leroy Sané → Galatasaray SK
The Turkish champions beat Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur to sign the German winger for free after his Bayern contract expired. Valued at €32M, Sané’s creativity will be a massive boost for their Champions League push.
9. Luka Modrić → AC Milan
He may be 39, but Luka Modrić still believes he can compete at the highest level. Milan picked him up for free after his legendary spell at Real Madrid ended. Whether he’s a starter or mentor, the Ballon d’Or winner brings priceless experience.
Bargains Can Still Flop… But These Look Promising
Getting a player for cheap doesn’t guarantee success — but from Xhaka’s leadership to KDB’s magic, these transfers have the potential to transform their new clubs.
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