The most anticipated transfer saga in the last couple of years finally came to an end as Florentino Perez finally landed French sensation Kylian Mbappe at the Santiago Bernabeu. Kylian is without a doubt the most valuable player you can get your hands on in world football at the moment. And with his inclusion in the team, Los Blancos have further strengthened their position in their bid for European domination.
However, after the new fair play concerns were settled ahead of the summer transfer window, clubs have been exploring their scouts to bring in the best possible options to adapt to the newly announced format of the biggest-ever UEFA Champions League starting from September 17.
Since the start of the transfer window, we have seen a number of coaching changes among the European heavyweights. Jurgen Klopp had already announced he would be leaving Liverpool ending his 10-year tenure at the club. The German has won everything with the club there was to win, so replacing him was a tough call for the club. His replacement Arne Slot has been proving worthy as his side earned three wins in three matches, among them was demolishing arch-rival Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Bayern has appointed Vincent Kompany as the man to take charge of their new project. Barcelona trusted Hansi Flick to rejuvenate their domination. Chelsea, Napoli, and Juventus have all appointed new managers, and these masterminds have been on a spending spree to form a balanced squad to challenge Real Madrid’s European reign.
Some of the clubs are yet to find solutions for their problems. Manchester United’s woes have only increased in the recent past. After ownership swaps in the club, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has kept his faith in Erik Ten Hag to rebuild the side. Aston Villa have been trying to strengthen their squad for an upcoming Champions League campaign. Meanwhile, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Atletico Madrid have made deadline-day transfers to cement their positions.
Among all these, the biggest question to answer is how will PSG regroup now that they have lost all their prospects; Mbappe, Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Sergio Ramos. PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has failed to keep his anchor in the club losing his battle to Real President Perez, who managed to sign the most valuable player in the market for free.
And to add to their woes, PSG have been handed the toughest UCL draw as they will have to play against the likes of Girona, Atletico Madrid, Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Manchester City in the league phase of the tournament. However, Luis Enrique has been allowed to make a couple of transfers to balance the scales.
Kylian Mbappe
PSG to Real Madrid: free transfer
Real Madrid's audacious move to acquire Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer is widely considered the most significant transfer of the decade. Mbappe, who had reached the end of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain, joined the Spanish giants without a transfer fee, a coup that sent shockwaves through the football world.
Renowned for his electrifying pace, exceptional dribbling skills, and clinical finishing, Mbappe has consistently showcased his talent at both club and international levels. His impressive tally of 334 goals and 157 assists underscores his status as one of the most prolific and dynamic forwards of his generation.
At just 25 years old, Mbappe has already amassed an impressive trophy cabinet, including multiple league titles with PSG and a FIFA World Cup victory with France. His combination of youth, exceptional talent, and proven success has solidified his position as one of the most sought-after and influential players in global football.
Julian Alvarez
Manchester City to Athlético de Madrid: £64m
Julián Álvarez's move to Atlético Madrid from Manchester City for a substantial fee of up to €95 million marks a significant transfer deal. This investment highlights Álvarez's exceptional talent and potential, making him one of the most sought-after players in the market.
Álvarez, a versatile forward, impressed during his time at Manchester City, contributing 20 goals and assists in the Premier League last season. His ability to play alongside Erling Haaland and his unwavering commitment to the team make him a valuable asset to any club.
Atlético Madrid's acquisition of Álvarez demonstrates their ambition to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level of European football. The Spanish club is eager to leverage Álvarez's skills and experience to bolster their attacking options and challenge for major trophies.
Dominic Solanke
Bournemouth to Tottenham: £55m
It's undoubtedly disappointing to have been overlooked for the England squad for Euro 2024, especially after scoring an impressive 19 goals in the Premier League. While it's a setback, the recognition of his performances has led to a significant career milestone: a move to Tottenham Hotspurs.
Solanke is a type of player who is determined to work hard and has a hunger for success, both at the club and international level. Hopefully, his future performances will earn him a place in the England squad this time.
Conor Gallagher
Chelsea to Athlético de Madrid: £36m
Chelsea has continued its efforts to revamp its squad with the departure of Conor Gallagher to Atlético Madrid. This move is likely to disappoint fans who saw Gallagher as a promising academy graduate and captain of the team last season.
Despite Gallagher's potential, his contract was nearing its expiration, leading to a relatively low transfer fee. Atlético Madrid, recognizing his talent, believes he will be a valuable asset to their team.
Gallagher's strong work ethic and technical skills are a good fit for Diego Simeone's playing style, making him a promising addition to Atlético Madrid. His move to the Spanish club marks a new chapter in his football career.
Pedro Neto
Wolves to Chelsea: £51m
Chelsea's recent acquisition of the 24-year-old player, while not the most extravagant expenditure in recent years, could prove to be a bargain if he can stay consistently fit. However, there's a significant concern as the player is somewhat injury-prone. He has missed over 100 games due to injuries in the past four seasons, both for his club and his national team.
Endrick
Palmeiras to Real Madrid: €72m
Real Madrid made a strategic move by securing the deal with Endrick, a talented young striker from Brazil. This investment aligns with the club's ongoing strategy of acquiring top Brazilian players, as evidenced by the successful integration of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo.
Endrick was finally able to join Real Madrid as he turned 18 in July 2024 due to FIFA regulations. His signing demonstrates the club's commitment to nurturing future football stars. Despite his young age, Endrick has gained valuable experience playing at the highest level in South America, making him a promising prospect for the future.
Dani Olmo
RB Leipzig to Barcelona: €55.00m
Dani Olmo's impressive performance at Euro 2024, which contributed to Spain's victory, made him one of the most sought-after players during the summer transfer window.
Last season, Olmo was considering leaving RB Leipzig, but he decided to stay because the club lacked attacking midfielders following several key players' departures.
A product of Barcelona's renowned La Masia academy, Olmo has returned to his roots and has already found the net for the Catalan club in La Liga.
