The summer 2024 transfer window has now closed, marking the end of a period where Premier League clubs aggressively reshaped their squads. With spending surpassing £2 billion, clubs aimed to fortify their positions, whether it was to secure a title challenge, push for European qualification, or simply avoid relegation. Here’s a look at which teams made the most of their summer business.
Overview
Overall, the Premier League clubs had mixed success in the summer 2024 transfer window. Some, like Liverpool, focused on stability with minimal changes, bringing in Federico Chiesa but not addressing their midfield needs.
Others, such as Newcastle United, added depth but missed out on key targets, which could limit their impact this season. Wolves lost several important players, like Ruben Neves, without adequately replacing them, potentially weakening their squad.
Financial constraints also affected clubs like Everton, leading to limited signings and potentially another tough season.
Newly promoted sides like Ipswich Town and Leicester City made efforts to strengthen, but the stiff competition in the Premier League will likely challenge them.
Arsenal
Arsenal had a productive window, strategically addressing gaps in their squad. The signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for £45 million and Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad for £32 million were standout moves.
Calafiori’s versatility in defence and Merino’s midfield creativity are expected to be pivotal as Arsenal seek to close the gap on Manchester City. The Premier League odds show Arsenal as second favourites for the title, they would have likely needed to sign one of the world’s best players to give themselves the edge over City in the eyes of the bookies. The Gunners also managed to offload Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham, which provided additional funds to balance their books while maintaining squad depth.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa were among the most active and ambitious clubs this summer, completing several high-profile signings. Amadou Onana’s arrival from Everton for £50 million is seen as a major coup, adding physicality and tactical intelligence to their midfield.
Villa also brought in Ian Maatsen from Chelsea for £44.5 million, further strengthening their defensive options. These moves underline Villa’s intent to build on last season’s success and compete strongly in both the Premier League and Champions League.
Manchester United
Manchester United focused on the future with the acquisition of young talents such as Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee.
Yoro, an 18-year-old defensive prodigy, was signed for £52.2 million from Lille, while Zirkzee, a striker compared to Zlatan Ibrahimović for his technical prowess, was secured for £35 million from Bologna.
Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham Hotspur made a splash by signing Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth for £65 million. Solanke’s arrival is expected to revamp Spurs’ attacking options, providing a consistent goal threat that the team desperately needed after the departure of Harry Kane.
Additionally, the acquisition of young talent Archie Gray from Leeds United for £30 million adds depth and future potential to their midfield and defence.
Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton made a smart acquisition by signing Argentine talent Valentín Barco from Boca Juniors for £9 million.
Originally expected to be a game-changer for the Seagulls, capable of playing as both a left-back and a winger, Barco’s integration into the Premier League was delayed by a surprising loan move to Sevilla. This loan is likely intended to give Barco valuable experience in La Liga before he fully joins Brighton’s squad.
Chelsea
Chelsea’s transfer window was marked by significant investments and some key departures. Pedro Neto from Wolves, signed for £54 million, is expected to add pace and creativity to Chelsea’s attack.
However, the Blues also lost several experienced players, such as Thiago Silva and Hakim Ziyech, which could leave them relying heavily on the younger players to step up. The success of Chelsea’s window will depend on how well these new signings integrate and perform.
Conclusion
While Brighton & Hove Albion are seen as big winners of the summer 2024 transfer window, other clubs like Arsenal and Manchester City also had impactful windows that could influence the title race. Arsenal’s signings, including Declan Rice, have strengthened their squad, making them strong contenders for the Premier League title.
Manchester City’s additions like Josko Gvardiol further bolster their already dominant team. Aston Villa also made significant moves, aiming for a top-three finish. While Brighton’s strategy positions them well for European qualification, Arsenal and City are better poised for a title or top-three finish.
