The summer transfer window closed after a record-breaking period for the Premier League, with clubs spending an astonishing £3.19 billion on new players. As the dust settles, attention now shifts fully to the action on the pitch. In this analysis, we delve into the transfer activities of three giants – Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham – evaluating their strategic choices, key signings, and departures to see how well they’ve positioned themselves for the season ahead. From unexpected moves to crucial reinforcements, each club had a unique journey through a truly hectic summer.
Overall, the transfer window saw mixed results for these top clubs. While some successfully addressed their weaknesses and brought in exciting talent, others faced challenges, either struggling to land their primary targets or dealing with unforeseen issues like injuries. This overview offers a look at the major takeaways, performance trends, and turning points from their summer business.
🔵 Manchester City’s Strategic Adjustments
Manchester City’s start to the Premier League season has been somewhat surprising, with two losses in their first three games. The club, managed by Pep Guardiola, spent the second-lowest among the ‘Big Six’ clubs, investing £185 million in seven new players, including three goalkeepers. Early signings like Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, and Tijjani Reijnders arrived in June, partly due to their FIFA Club World Cup commitments. The marquee signing, Tijjani Reijnders, was brought in to bolster the midfield after Rodri’s ACL injury, though he has primarily been deployed as a number ten.
City also saw some interesting goalkeeping dynamics. Marcus Bettinelli joined as a third-choice, while James Trafford, who had returned to his boyhood club, now faces competition from deadline day signing Gianluigi Donnarumma after a difficult debut. Donnarumma’s arrival is a curious one, given his different playstyle compared to the departed Ederson, hinting at a potential rotation policy. Central defense remains an area of concern, with John Stones, Ruben Dias, and Nathan Ake perhaps past their peak, and young Abdukodir Khusanov still developing. The absence of a top-tier central defender like Alessandro Bastoni might be felt.
Grade: C
🤝 Manchester United’s Squad Overhaul
Ruben Amorim promised a ‘storm’ upon his arrival at Old Trafford, and while Manchester United’s season has been turbulent, their transfer activity aimed to address scoring issues. They acquired Matheus Cunha and Byran Mbeumo, both known for exceeding their expected goals (xG) in the Premier League, adding proven quality in their prime. However, the £74 million signing of Benjamin Sesko raised questions, as he shares a similar profile with existing strikers and the funds could perhaps have been better spent in central midfield. The pursuit of Baleba seemed more like a public relations move given the high asking price, leaving a 33-year-old Casemiro with a heavy workload in midfield alongside Bruno Fernandes.
A significant success for United was offloading several players. Marcus Rashford secured a loan to Barcelona with a £30 million option to buy. Alejandro Garnacho was sold to Chelsea for £40 million, and Antony moved to Real Betis. Jadon Sancho also left on a deadline day loan to Aston Villa, though without a buy option due to his contract situation. Rasmus Hojlund’s loan to Napoli with a conditional obligation to buy for £38 million appears to be a beneficial deal for all parties involved.
Grade: B-
✨ Tottenham’s Transformative Window
Tottenham experienced a summer of major changes, including the arrival of new coach Thomas Frank, the departure of long-serving captain Heung-Min Son, and Daniel Levy stepping down as chairman. James Maddison’s ACL injury significantly influenced their transfer strategy. After missing out on Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze (who joined Arsenal), Spurs finally secured Xavi Simons. Simons, who reportedly had personal terms with Chelsea but saw them hesitate, is now poised to become a key figure and the new face of the club, both on and off the pitch.
Prior to Simons, Tottenham had already made a smart move by signing Mohammed Kudus from West Ham for £55 million, who has quickly impressed. The loan signing of Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich has also significantly strengthened their central midfield. Additionally, Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso, who initially joined on loan in January, have made their moves permanent. While they are expected to be squad options, their presence provides depth, especially crucial if Spurs face another injury crisis.
Grade: B+
