August 19 – With the new season underway in the wake of the summer’s international action, the movings of the transfer market continue to build pace with the end of the window in sight.
The Saudi League’s spending appears to have massively slowed after a busy start to the month, which saw them acquire talented winger Moussa Diaby from Aston Villa. Since then, they only have Getafe’s Gaston Alvarez to add to their roster, who signed for Al-Qadsiah on a three-year deal.
Whilst Saudi sat on their hands, European football saw a week of record breakers. Spurs-bound Dominic Solanke and his Bournemouth replacement Evanilson both represented their new club’s biggest-ever transfer fee. Although he was priced significantly above his €45 million value, Solanke in particular looks to be a clever move for Spurs as a natural fit for the centre forward hole left by Harry Kane one year ago.
Manchester United dealt with some shrewd spending to secure Mazraoui and De Ligt for €35 million under their combined market valuations. Old Trafford witnessed a winning start over Fulham on Friday night which saw new signing Mazraoui in a starring role.
Atletico Madrid’s move for Man City striker Julian Alvarez (pictured) was the most expensive deal of the week, setting Simone’s side back €75 million. It is a statement signing from Atletico with so much business being conducted on the white side of the Spanish Capital. It also signalled a big win over the Premier League, securing one of the League’s hottest talents at what looks to be a bargain fee, even at €75 million.
The overall transfer trend suggests young players are still the focus of big money deals, with almost every major signing this week falling into the Under-26 category. Desire Doue’s €50 million transfer to PSG is the biggest example of trusting youth as the Ligue 1 champions continue the search for the next Kylian Mbappe.
The table also shows that of the 27 most valuable players in the transfer market this week, one third are loan deals.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1734781667labto1734781667ofdlr1734781667owedi1734781667sni@g1734781667niwe.1734781667yrrah1734781667