Inset: the new football season, the summer transfer window of 2024 has thrown up some splashing deals. Headlining this was Kylian Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid on a free transfer after his contract with PSG expired. Mbappe will be an important figure for Los Blancos, having won 15 trophies and scoring 334 goals.
Here are the other big name buys across Europe’s top football leagues.
Julian Alvarez: Atletico Madrid’s New Star Striker
Atletico Madrid made a statement by luring Julian Alvarez away from Manchester City for €75 million. Alvarez is the versatile and creative World Cup-winning Argentinian forward to fit well in Diego Simeone’s side.
Barcelona’s Big Return – Dani Olmo
Barcelona welcomed back Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig for €55 million. The sparkling Euro 2024 campaign saw Olmo come back to his La Masia roots and immediately caused ripples in their attack.
Boost at the Back for Arsenal-Riccardo Calafiori
Arsenal signed Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for a whopping €45m to back up their defense. The Italian center-back is expected to solidify the Gunners’ leaky defense this season.
Bayern Munich’s New Attacking Option-Michael Olise
Bayern Munich acquired the services of Michael Olise from Crystal Palace for a reported €53m. The young Frenchie wingman brings pace and flair to the Bavarian attack.
Chelsea’s Bright Future-Pedro Neto
Chelsea’s signing of the season has to be Portuguese winger Pedro Neto, captured from Wolves for €60m. He puts to paper a seven-year contract as the Blues invest in their future.
Gundogan Returns to Manchester City
Ilkay Gundogan makes a quick return to Manchester City from Barcelona. The experienced midfielder comes in on a free transfer, boosting the depth of midfield at City.
Matthijs De Ligt: Manchester United’s Savior at the Back
Backline problems saw Manchester United sign Matthijs De Ligt from Bayern Munich in a deal estimated at a value of €45 million. The Dutchman is reunited with Erik Ten Hag as he brings stability to United’s backline.
Liverpool’s Bargain Deal – Federico Chiesa
Liverpool pulled a bargain as they signed Federico Chiesa from Juventus for a mere €12 million. He might be injury-prone, but Chiesa is a high-potential player.
Juventus Strengthens Midfield – Douglas Luiz
This was followed by the signing of Brazilian midfielder Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa for a price tag of €51.5 million. Given his sterling displays at Villa and regular showings with the Brazilian national team, the Bianconeri will be reliant upon him quite well.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
