Power Rankings: The 20 Best Transfers of the Summer So Far
As the 2024 summer transfer window heats up, clubs worldwide are splurging significant amounts on top-tier talent. This article ranks the best transfers of the 2024 summer transfer window, showcasing moves that promise to reshape the football landscape.
20. Georges Mikautadze – Metz to Lyon (€18.5m)
Having recently clinched the Euro 2024 Golden Boot, Georges Mikautadze has traded Metz for Olympique Lyonnais in a deal worth €18.5 million. While it’s common to raise eyebrows when a player signs after a spectacular international tournament, Lyon is optimistic that Mikautadze will make an immediate impact back in France. The Georgia forward impressed with 11 goals and an assist in just 17 Ligue 1 appearances last season, and securing him at this price represents a neat addition to Lyon’s squad.
19. Kaide Gordon – Newcastle to Brighton (€25m)
What seemed to be a laughable move when facilitated by Newcastle due to their financial constraints has turned out to be a shrewd acquisition for Brighton. Despite the considerable fee, Kaide Gordon is proving to be an electrifying addition for the Seagulls. If he builds on his promising start, this transfer will undoubtedly mark yet another intelligent move by Brighton.
18. Mats Wieffer – Feyenoord to Brighton (€30m)
One year after the exits of Moises Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister, Brighton & Hove Albion has found a worthy successor in Mats Wieffer. This Dutch midfielder brings a Champions League-caliber quality to the squad. Although transitioning from the Eredivisie to the Premier League can be challenging, Wieffer’s well-rounded skill set places him in a prime position to succeed in England.
17. Alvaro Morata – Atletico Madrid to AC Milan (€13m)
Alvaro Morata has faced critics throughout his career, but he has consistently shown himself to be a reliable scorer. After netting 21 goals in 48 matches last season and leading Spain to victory at Euro 2024, he has now signed with AC Milan for just €13 million. Morata is set to fill the shoes of Olivier Giroud as Milan’s leading striker, proving crucial in their quest to dethrone Inter in Serie A.
16. Douglas Luiz – Aston Villa to Juventus (€51.5m)
Douglas Luiz played a pivotal role in Aston Villa’s Champions League qualification last season. His subsequent move to Juventus for €51.5 million is a significant win for the Italian giants. As a talented central midfielder, his presence will be vital for Juventus in their ambitions to regain top status in Italian football.
15. Archie Gray – Leeds to Tottenham (€41.25m)
Tottenham Hotspur is taking a gamble on young talent with Archie Gray, a player shown to possess immense potential. Having excelled during his debut season at Leeds United, where he played in both defense and midfield, Gray might not immediately start at Spurs but holds promise to become a fixture in the England team. The €41.25 million investment could prove invaluable for the club’s future.
14. Serhou Guirassy – Stuttgart to Borussia Dortmund (€18m)
Serhou Guirassy achieved stardom at 27, having netted an impressive 30 goals in just 30 games for Stuttgart last season. His €18 million transfer to Borussia Dortmund appears a fantastic bargain, especially considering interest from top clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United.
13. Aleix Garcia – Girona to Bayer Leverkusen (€18m)
After an impressive campaign with Girona, the talent of Aleix Garcia has caught the eye of Bayer Leverkusen, who secured his services for a modest €18 million fee. In the middle of the park, Garcia has proven indispensable for his team, and his addition will strengthen Leverkusen’s already robust midfield.
12. Joao Palhinha – Fulham to Bayern Munich (€51m)
Bayern Munich needed a dedicated defensive midfielder, and they finally landed Joao Palhinha from Fulham following their previously unsuccessful bid in 2023. Recognized as one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders, Palhinha’s arrival will provide much-needed support to the Bayern ranks.
11. Endrick – Palmeiras to Real Madrid (€47.5m)
Real Madrid secured a future star by bringing in Endrick from Palmeiras for €47.5 million, completing a deal initiated in December 2022. As the talented Brazilian has now turned 18, Los Blancos will integrate him into their first team gradually, but his potential is undeniable.
10. Pascal Gross – Brighton to Borussia Dortmund (€7m)
At 33, Pascal Gross transitions to the club he supported as a child. After seven successful years at Brighton, he has signed with Borussia Dortmund for a bargain of €7 million. Recognized as one of the Premier League’s underrated players, Gross’s versatility will add depth to Dortmund’s squad.
9. Matias Soule – Juventus to Roma (€25.6m)
In securing Matias Soule from Juventus for €25.6 million, Roma has snagged a young talent with immense potential. The Argentine showcased his abilities during his loan at Frosinone, scoring 11 goals and providing three assists in a challenging season, suggesting he could become a vital player in Serie A.
8. Amadou Onana – Everton to Aston Villa (€60m)
When Aston Villa committed almost €60 million to secure Amadou Onana from Everton, it raised eyebrows. Nevertheless, the Belgian midfielder quickly made an impactful debut, scoring just minutes into his first game and winning over fans with his strong performances.
7. Dominic Solanke – Bournemouth to Tottenham (€75m)
Tottenham has made Dominic Solanke their record signing this summer, acquiring him from Bournemouth for a fee that could rise to €75 million. Although opinions varied regarding the price, Solanke looks poised to adapt perfectly to Ange Postecoglou’s tactical framework, particularly as a finisher in key scoring areas.
6. Joshua Zirkzee – Bologna to Man Utd (€42.5m)
While he may not immediately be a starter at Manchester United, Joshua Zirkzee presents an exciting signing for the club. Although he hasn’t fully established himself as a prolific goal scorer yet, his versatile game will significantly assist a number of United players.
5. Julian Alvarez – Manchester City to Atletico Madrid (€75m)
Atletico Madrid made headlines by signing Julian Alvarez for a staggering €75 million, potentially rising to €95 million. This represents a significant investment for Diego Simeone, but his past performances indicate that Alvarez could deliver-game changing moments for the La Liga team.
4. Riccardo Calafiori – Bologna to Arsenal (€45m)
Following the arrival of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna, Arsenal appears to have bolstered its defense significantly. The 2024 standout from Italy is set to make an immediate impact at the Emirates, with many viewing the €45 million fee as a wise investment relative to the current market.
3. Xavi Simons – PSG to RB Leipzig (Loan)
Xavi Simons, pursued by several top clubs, has rejoined RB Leipzig on a season-long loan. The gifted midfielder contributed an impressive 23 goals and assists in 40 games last season, and his services will be vital as Leipzig aims for gold in the Bundesliga this season.
2. Michael Olise – Crystal Palace to Bayern Munich (€53m)
The transfer market’s sheen has returned to Bayern Munich with the acquisition of Michael Olise for €53 million. This signing comes after they also secured Harry Kane’s signature, dispelling doubts about their market appeal. Olise’s stellar performance in the previous season should bring further success to the Bundesliga squad.
1. Kylian Mbappe – PSG to Real Madrid (Free)
Finally, the most remarkable move of the summer is Kylian Mbappe, who has joined Real Madrid on a free transfer. Revered as arguably the world’s best player, his arrival is poised to enhance Madrid’s chances of defending their Champions League title after netting 256 goals in 308 appearances for PSG.
Football Transfers: A Look Ahead
The interest in the transfer market remains ever-potent, and clubs are keen to secure the best talents. As the summer progresses, these additions could very well reshape league standings and player dynamics, making the 2024 season one for the ages.
