As the 2024 summer transfer deals progresses, Premier Bet is evaluating the most significant transfers happening around the world.
For many football fans, the off-season is a time of anticipation and excitement, driven by the thrill of new transfers. Even as the window approaches its close, speculation surrounding the biggest names in football continues to swirl, keeping everyone on edge.
While some transfers work out perfectly, others leave clubs—or even players—questioning what might have been if different choices were made. Premier Bet is here to keep you informed on who made the best moves and who might have regrets. Throughout the summer transfer window, we’re grading every major deal as it happens, so you can track the biggest winners—and losers—of this transfer season.
Check out our latest grades below, and share your thoughts in the comments section…
August 21: Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid to Chelsea, £46m)
For Atletico Madrid: This transfer feels like Christmas for Atletico Madrid. By effectively exchanging Joao Felix for Conor Gallagher, Atletico strengthens their midfield without compromising their attack and even pockets a small but significant profit. While it’s true that Atletico are still taking a substantial hit on the player they originally bought from Benfica for €126 million (£107m/$140m) five years ago, they won’t be too concerned now. The club has finally shed the burden of Felix after a series of disappointing loan spells. Atleti has found a buyer willing to take a player the fans despised and Diego Simeone lost faith in years ago. There’s a sense of relief at the Metropolitano. Grade: A
For Chelsea: Even by Chelsea’s unpredictable standards, this decision is baffling—at least from a footballing standpoint. This deal seems driven purely by financial motives. It was linked to Gallagher’s move in the opposite direction and only materialized because a prior swap involving Samu Omorodion fell through. Chelsea turned to Felix simply because he was another Atletico player. Felix doesn’t fit the profile Chelsea needs, and there’s no obvious role for him at Stamford Bridge, where he previously managed only four goals in 20 appearances during his 2023 loan. If he wasn’t deemed good enough last summer, why now, especially after his struggles at Barcelona? This decision defies logic, but then again, irrationality seems to be the norm for Chelsea under Clearlake Capital. Grade: F
For Felix: This is a terrible move for Felix, though his options in Europe were limited. No other top club was likely to consider signing the talented but inconsistent Portugal international. Felix has failed to live up to the hype that surrounded him during his time at Benfica. As a result, his choices were essentially Chelsea or Saudi Arabia—a grim scenario for a highly-paid underperformer. Felix might be eager to return to west London, but Chelsea’s squad is even more congested than before, with around eight forwards vying for a starting spot under Enzo Maresca. While it’s possible that Felix could find a way to flourish in the chaos at Stamford Bridge, what he really needs is stability, not more uncertainty. Grade: F
August 21: Ilkay Gundogan (Barcelona to Manchester City, free)
For Barcelona: Barcelona’s decision to offload Ilkay Gundogan is a major embarrassment. Just a year ago, they managed to secure one of the world’s top midfielders by convincing him to reject higher offers elsewhere. Now, because of their financial troubles, they had to let him go. Gundogan, who provided 14 assists last season and was Barcelona’s standout player, had to be sacrificed to make room for their only major summer signing, Dani Olmo. The club’s desperation to cut costs led them to release Gundogan for free, even though he had two years left on his contract. This situation only highlights the ongoing disarray at FC Barcelona. Grade: F
For Manchester City: Gundogan’s return to Manchester City is surprising but highly beneficial. City secured the Premier League title last season without him, but his absence was felt in key moments. Kyle Walker once joked that Gundogan transformed into “prime Zinedine Zidane” during crucial games, and City missed that presence. While Gundogan might not start every game, his talent and winning mentality remain strong, as he showed at Barcelona last season and during Germany’s Euro 2024 campaign. Pep Guardiola is thrilled to have him back, a clear indication of his value. At 33, bringing back their treble-winning captain on a free transfer was an obvious choice. Grade: B+
For Gundogan: Returning to Manchester City was the best option for Gundogan. He would have been happy to stay at Barcelona, especially after leaving City on a high note following their treble-winning season. The chance to play in sunnier climes and for a club he admired since childhood was a dream for him. However, Barcelona’s financial crisis forced his exit. While he had other offers, Gundogan remains a fierce competitor who believes he still has much to contribute at the highest level. Last season, he created more chances than any player in Europe’s top five leagues, except Bruno Fernandes. Gundogan should fit seamlessly back into Guardiola’s squad. Grade: A
August 21: Conor Gallagher (Chelsea to Atletico Madrid, €42m)
For Chelsea: This transfer exposes the chaos in Chelsea’s transfer policy. Gallagher was one of the team’s best players. Yet, they essentially traded him for Atletico’s biggest flop, Joao Felix. Last season, Gallagher ranked third in Premier League goal involvements. Only Cole Palmer had more assists. Gallagher also led the team in possession wins with 221. Despite these achievements, Chelsea sold him because he was an academy product. The pure profit from his sale will help fix the financial mess caused by the owners’ reckless spending. Some argue Gallagher didn’t fit Enzo Maresca’s style, but fans aren’t fooled. Gallagher is more versatile and talented than many of the squad’s underperforming players. A homegrown star has been cast aside to balance the books. It’s a disgraceful decision. Grade: F
For Atletico Madrid: This move is intriguing and could go either way. Few expected Atletico to make Gallagher one of La Liga’s most expensive signings this window. Rumors suggest they preferred Valencia’s Javi Guerra. However, Gallagher could fit well in Diego Simeone’s lineup. He’s an all-action midfielder, a pressing machine, perfect for Simeone’s style. Gallagher’s high-energy game suits Atletico’s intensity, making him a potential bargain. The only concern is his technical ability in Spain, as seen during his limited Euro 2024 appearances. With fierce competition for midfield spots, Gallagher must prove himself. Nonetheless, getting rid of Joao Felix in the process is a significant bonus. Grade: A-
For Gallagher: This move marks a tough end to his Chelsea journey but could be a hidden blessing. Gallagher would have preferred to stay at Stamford Bridge, where he has been since he was eight. Even after realizing he had to leave, he likely wanted to join another Premier League club. Reports indicate he had doubts about moving to Madrid. Settling in Spain might be challenging, but recent success stories like Jude Bellingham show the benefits of playing abroad. Gallagher should thrive under Simeone, a coach known for his expertise in midfield play. Atletico is also in a strong position, aiming for the Liga title after an active summer transfer window. Being forced out of Chelsea could turn out to be the best thing for his career. Grade: B+
August 17: Desire Doue (Rennes to Paris Saint-Germain, €50m)
For Rennes: Rennes’ academy continues to shine. They’ve sold another young star for a significant fee. Doue joins a list of successful academy graduates like Ousmane Dembele, Mathys Tel, and Eduardo Camavinga. Replacing him will be challenging. He contributed four goals and four assists in just 17 Ligue 1 starts last season. Nonetheless, Rennes has a track record of handling such transitions well. Grade: A
For Paris Saint-Germain: PSG’s signing of Doue is another exciting move. Recently, PSG has adopted a recruitment strategy similar to Chelsea’s, focusing on promising young players. The difference is PSG prioritizes quality over quantity. Landing Doue is a significant achievement. The 19-year-old was also pursued by Manchester United and Bayern Munich. The transfer fee is high, but Doue’s impressive dribbling last season made him a standout talent in European football. Grade: A
For Doue: This move is a sensible next step. Paris is a better fit for him than Manchester or Munich. He won the 2022 European Under-17 Championship with PSG’s Warren Zaire-Emery, so he should adjust well at Parc des Princes. Though he has some areas to improve, his former coaches describe him as humble and dedicated. The €50m fee brings pressure, and PSG has many options out wide. Establishing himself as a starter won’t be easy, but it’s a valuable experience. As a versatile attacker strong in one-on-one situations, he will likely have opportunities to shine. The crowd, eager for a new star after Kylian Mbappe’s departure, will give him plenty of chances. Grade: A-
August 13: Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich to Manchester United, £43m)
For Bayern Munich: A solid move. Bayern seemed to have made a great deal when signing De Ligt from Juventus. However, he didn’t become the standout defender he was at Ajax. He played regularly until Thomas Tuchel left, but Bayern’s eagerness to sell him speaks volumes. His lack of minutes with the Netherlands at Euro 2024 is telling. Bayern will be pleased to recoup a large portion of the transfer fee for a player they no longer needed. Grade: B+
For Manchester United: A gamble worth taking. De Ligt’s time at Ajax showed promise, but he hasn’t consistently performed at the highest level. The transfer fee is reasonable, and De Ligt still has potential. Former Ajax coach Erik ten Hag might be the key to unlocking his best form. Compared to United’s centre-backs last season, De Ligt is a significant upgrade. Grade: B
For De Ligt: This could be his last chance to shine at a top club. At 24, he has room to prove himself after disappointing spells at Juventus and Bayern. He possesses world-class potential with his physical presence and two-footed ability. However, concerns remain about his pace and tendency for costly mistakes. The pressure is on De Ligt to perform consistently at a top team. He will have opportunities to prove himself under Ten Hag at Old Trafford. Grade: B+
August 13: Noussair Mazraoui (Bayern Munich to Manchester United, £17m)
For Bayern: A sensible choice. Mazraoui was a useful squad player, able to cover both full-back positions. However, he was not a regular starter when the team was at full strength. With Kimmich and Davies still at the club and new signing Hiroki Ito able to play left-back, selling Mazraoui makes sense. Grade: B
For United: An upgrade over Aaron Wan-Bissaka. United has often made poor deals in recent years, but this one stands out. They effectively funded Mazraoui’s purchase by selling Wan-Bissaka to West Ham. Mazraoui is more versatile and stronger offensively, offering a solid attacking option wherever he plays. Grade: B+
For Mazraoui: A chance to secure a starting role at a top club and under a former boss. Mazraoui demonstrated his talent at Ajax and during Morocco’s impressive World Cup run in 2022. Partnering with Achraf Hakimi, he was effective both defensively and offensively. Though not on Hakimi’s level, Mazraoui has the potential to become a fan favorite at Old Trafford. Grade: A
August 12: Julian Alvarez (Manchester City to Atletico Madrid, €75m)
For Manchester City: A significant profit from a player they could afford to lose. City have previously sold Raheem Sterling, Ferran Torres, Gabriel Jesus, Leroy Sane, and Cole Palmer without impacting their Premier League success. Alvarez, a proven talent at club and international levels, faced increased competition with the arrival of Savinho. Thus, City accepted a huge offer for their €21m signing from River Plate. Grade: A+
For Atletico Madrid: A major statement of intent. Atletico has been active this transfer window, signing Alexander Sorloth, Robin Le Normand, and Conor Gallagher. Acquiring Alvarez is a standout move. At just 24, Alvarez has won nearly every major trophy and scored consistently, despite limited playing time and playing out of position. The high fee reflects his tremendous potential, and he could shine at the Metropolitano next season. Grade: B+
For Alvarez: The chance he has long desired. Alvarez has proven he can lead a top team, but Haaland’s presence at City limited his opportunities. Now, he can show he’s an elite striker. He is quick, strong, technically skilled, and a hard worker—qualities Diego Simeone values in a No.9. With the significant investment, Alvarez will face scrutiny, but he has the talent to excel. Expect him to thrive under the pressure and become a top centre-forward. Grade: A
August 11: Pedro Neto (Wolves to Chelsea, £54m)
For Wolves: A disappointing loss but decent money. Neto, a top Premier League chance-creator, will be missed next season. Wolves have adapted to playing without the injury-prone winger before. They hope to sign a promising replacement, possibly Ajax’s Carlos Forbes. Despite Neto’s injuries, Wolves secured a solid fee for a player sidelined twice last season. Grade: B+
For Chelsea: Another risky move. Neto is a proven Premier League player but has a troubling injury record, with four major absences in three years. If he stays fit, he will add pace, creativity, and work rate. However, it’s a significant gamble, akin to signing a talented yet injury-prone player like Diogo Jota from Wolves. Grade: B
For Neto: A long-awaited step up. Neto has shown he deserves a chance at a top club. Chelsea offers that chance, though it remains to be seen if it’s the right fit. The squad is overstuffed, and several high-profile signings have struggled. Neto has the talent but needs to improve his goal-scoring record (never exceeding five goals in a Premier League season) to succeed where others have faltered. Grade: B-
August 10: Dominic Solanke (Bournemouth to Tottenham, £65m)
For Bournemouth: Massive profit but a significant loss. They’ve lost their top forward just before the season starts. Owner Bill Foley mentioned having “two or three candidates” to replace Solanke. Whether these players can match Solanke’s 19 goals from last season is uncertain. Links with Ivan Toney and Dominic Calvert-Lewin have surfaced, but transfers seem unlikely. Despite this, the fee is substantial. Note that Liverpool, Solanke’s former club, included a 20 percent sell-on clause in his contract. Grade: B
For Tottenham: A surprising move from a usually frugal chairman. Solanke excelled last season and has been suggested as Harry Kane’s successor. However, £65m is a huge sum for a 26-year-old with one strong Premier League season. If Spurs can sell Richarlison to the Saudi Pro League, Daniel Levy will consider this price worth paying. Solanke seems well-suited to Ange Postecoglou’s style. Grade: B-
For Solanke: A crucial chance to prove himself at a top club. After failing at Liverpool, Solanke revitalized his career at Bournemouth. The challenge now is to justify his massive transfer fee. Spurs aren’t on the same level as Liverpool or Chelsea, so the competition will be less intense. Solanke should be a regular starter and, despite some doubts about his finishing, he should link well with Son Heung-min and James Maddison. Grade: A
August 9: Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig to Barcelona, €55m)
For RB Leipzig: This transfer had been expected. Leipzig fought hard to keep Xavi Simons, knowing Olmo’s departure was imminent. His impressive Euro 2024 performance made the move inevitable. The fee might seem low for a key player in Spain’s triumph, but Olmo only scored a maximum of five goals in a Bundesliga season. Leipzig still made a significant profit, nearly doubling what they paid for him from Dinamo Zagreb in 2020. Grade: B+
For Barcelona: A welcome addition. With the new season approaching and no new signings, Barcelona fans were growing anxious. Bringing back a former youth team player will ease some of this tension. Questions remain about how Hansi Flick will use Olmo and whether another forward will be sold. Olmo can play on either flank or in the No.10 role, which he excelled in during the Euros. Returning to Barcelona could enhance his performance. Grade: B
For Olmo: An opportunity to shine at Barcelona. Olmo’s decision to leave for Dinamo Zagreb in 2014 surprised many. However, he believes that moving away from La Masia benefited his growth. Now, Olmo must achieve the consistency that has eluded him so far. His technique is impressive, as seen at the Euros, but his final product needs improvement. He must prove he can perform at the highest level on a regular basis. Grade: A
August 5: Joao Neves (Benfica to Paris Saint-Germain, €70m)
For Benfica: Mixed feelings about the transfer. Benfica secured a huge fee for one of their top prospects. Fans are understandably upset to see such a promising academy graduate leave after a short stint. President Rui Costa acknowledges the supporters’ disappointment but emphasizes that PSG’s offer was too good to refuse. This deal further solidifies Benfica’s reputation for getting top prices for their young talents. Yet, fans worry Neves might turn out to be undervalued. Grade: B
For PSG: A reminder that the club can still make big signings. The fee for a 19-year-old is substantial, but Neves shows world-class potential. PSG’s acquisition is a smart move, especially considering the price difference with Joao Palhinha, who is older. The club’s recent shift to buying young talent with high potential, led by Luis Campos, may pay off. Neves could become a regular at Parc des Princes for years. Grade: A
For Neves: Pros and cons to consider. The Parc des Princes environment can be unstable. Manuel Ugarte, who joined PSG from Portugal last year for a similar fee, struggled to secure a midfield spot. However, Neves appears more advanced and could form a strong midfield partnership with Vitinha, Warren Zaire-Emery, and possibly Fabian Ruiz. Neves is expected to shine in Ligue 1 and build on his impressive Champions League performance with Benfica. Grade: B+
August 5: Niclas Fullkrug (Borussia Dortmund to West Ham, £27m)
For Dortmund: A fantastic fee for a 31-year-old striker. Fullkrug was Dortmund’s joint-top scorer last season and crucial in their Champions League final run. He also made an impact for Germany at the Euros. Despite his contributions, Dortmund have younger attacking options and have earned double what they paid for him a year ago. It’s great business by any standard. Grade: A
For West Ham: A surprising move. The Hammers needed a new No.9, but many expected a younger player like Jhon Duran. Instead, they signed Fullkrug, whose best years are likely behind him. The fee is notable, but the Germany international could still be valuable in the short term. If he adapts quickly, he might become a fan favorite at the London Stadium. Grade: B-
For Fullkrug: A chance to enjoy the Premier League. Fullkrug is well-suited to the physical demands of English football. His technique and physicality could make him a strong target man for players like Mohammed Kudus and Jarrod Bowen. As shown at the Euros, he can impact games even as a substitute. Grade: B+
August 5: Xavi Simons (Paris Saint-Germain to RB Leipzig, loan)
For PSG: Not ideal for a club seeking squad improvements. A permanent departure seemed best for PSG and Simons, who made only seven Ligue 1 appearances since joining from Barcelona in 2019. Instead, his long-term future remains undecided for another season. PSG might earn more if Simons performs well in Leipzig, but they likely preferred to sell a player Luis Enrique seems ready to part with. Grade: C
For RB Leipzig: A great outcome. Simons impressed with double figures in goals and assists last season on loan. He seemed set to join Bayern Munich, a move that would have disappointed Leipzig fans. Instead, Leipzig secured a second loan season with Simons, which is a significant achievement for the club. If Leipzig can keep Dani Olmo, it will be a fantastic summer for coach Marco Rose. Grade: A
For Simons: A surprising but sensible choice. After strong performances at PSV and Leipzig, Simons seemed ready for a bigger challenge. However, he doubted his playing time at Bayern Munich and chose to return to Leipzig for more responsibility. This decision could be wise for his development. Like Benjamin Sesko, staying at Leipzig might be beneficial before a future big move. Grade: B+
July 30: Filip Jorgensen (Villarreal to Chelsea, £21m)
For Villarreal: Another successful deal with Chelsea. Last year, Villarreal sold Nicolas Jackson to the Blues for £32m. Now, they’ve received £21m for Jorgensen, who only debuted in La Liga in January. Jorgensen came through Villarreal’s youth system, so this is pure profit. Despite being Villarreal’s first-choice goalkeeper, Chelsea’s offer was too good to turn down. Grade: B+
For Chelsea: Fitting with their recent strategy of acquiring promising young talent and offering long-term contracts. Jorgensen could be a worthwhile investment. Although he lacks experience, he made more saves than any other La Liga goalkeeper last season (143). His impressive distribution fits well with Enzo Maresca’s playing style. Grade: B-
For Jorgensen: “A dream come true,” as he described it. Last year, he couldn’t have imagined moving to a top club like Chelsea. He developed significantly at Villarreal and is now aiming to be Chelsea’s starting goalkeeper. With Robert Sanchez and Djordje Petrovic not being top performers, Jorgensen has a chance to shine. Despite the chaos at Stamford Bridge, this opportunity is unique. Grade: A
July 29: Riccardo Calafiori (Bologna to Arsenal, £42m)
For Bologna: Another tough loss amid a summer of key departures. Bologna qualified for the Champions League but has lost coach Thiago Motta and striker Joshua Zirkee. Calafiori’s departure deepens the pain. Bologna will receive only half the fee due to a sell-on clause from Basel. Though the club profits from a €4m investment, losing Calafiori without a second season stings. At least he didn’t move to another Serie A team. Grade: B-
For Arsenal: A perfect fit for Mikel Arteta’s vision of a fluid football team. Some fans question the signing, given the solid centre-back pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, and the return of versatile Jurrien Timber. However, Calafiori is versatile and skillful. His ball skills are so impressive that Luciano Spalletti used him as a No.10 during the Euros. His line-breaking ability was highlighted by his crucial assist against Croatia. Calafiori can adapt to any role Arteta envisions. Grade: A
For Calafiori: An offer too good to decline. Joining Juventus with Thiago Motta would have made sense, but Arsenal’s interest is promising. Arteta likely views Calafiori as an upgrade over Oleksandr Zinchenko. Adapting to a new league and language will take time, but Calafiori has the talent and determination to become Italy’s next great defender. Grade: A-
July 22: Amadou Onana (Everton to Aston Villa, £50m)
For Everton: An expected move. Financial problems made selling a first-team regular necessary. Fans hope this doesn’t lead to selling Jarrad Branthwaite. Onana had potential but often only performed in big games. The key now is to retain Branthwaite and reinvest some of Onana’s fee into the squad. Grade: B
For Aston Villa: Potential Douglas Luiz replacement. At 22, Onana isn’t as complete as Luiz, who left for Juventus. Unai Emery will likely use him in a defensive role. Onana has physical presence and decent distribution but lacks Luiz’s goal threat. The fee feels high, but Onana’s potential makes him a valuable addition. Grade: B-
For Onana: A chance to prove himself at a club playing Champions League football. Rated highly by Belgium’s Domenico Tedesco, he was less impressive at Euro 2024. With Youri Tielemans in midfield, Onana should settle quickly. He could form a strong pivot with Boubacar Kamara when he returns from injury. Playing under a better coach and alongside quality players should benefit him. Grade: B
July 18: Leny Yoro (Lille to Manchester United, £52m)
For Lille: An excellent fee for a teenager with one year left on his contract. Lille focused on keeping Yoro through January to aid their Champions League bid. With that goal achieved, his departure this summer was inevitable. Lille excelled in convincing Yoro to join United over Real Madrid, especially with the higher offer from Old Trafford. Losing such a promising player is a blow, especially after coach Paulo Fonseca’s exit to AC Milan. The funds will help strengthen the squad for the Champions League. Grade: A
For Manchester United: A promising acquisition. Many United fans may not have seen Yoro play, but his arrival is widely celebrated. Yoro, an 18-year-old with 60 Ligue 1 appearances, is compared to William Saliba for his ball skills. Concerns about his physique remain, as he’ll need to adapt to the Premier League’s physical demands. Despite paying above market value, United deserves credit for securing such a coveted talent without Champions League football. Grade: B+
For Yoro: A risky move. Old Trafford has been tough for young talents in recent years. More experienced players have struggled there. Yoro might have been better off joining Madrid, known for its shrewd squad building. However, United’s need for quality in defense means Yoro should get ample playing time. The potential arrival of Matthijs de Ligt might reduce immediate pressure on Yoro, giving him time to adjust. Grade: B
July 18: Mason Greenwood (Manchester United to Marseille, €30m)
For Manchester United: A long-awaited end to a troubling saga. United mishandled the Greenwood situation, upsetting supporters and staff. Financially, securing such a high fee for Greenwood is impressive, given his controversial status. United also included a substantial sell-on clause in his Marseille contract. However, it feels distasteful that United might profit more from Greenwood, who should have been sold earlier. Grade: F
For Marseille: A controversial move. Even the Marseille mayor criticized the deal, saying it conflicts with the city’s values. Despite this, Marseille sees Greenwood as a rare talent they couldn’t normally afford. They argue he was never convicted of a crime and will add value to Roberto De Zerbi’s team. While fans may initially protest, Greenwood’s goals could win them over, reflecting the often ruthless nature of modern football. Grade: F
For Greenwood: A chance to revive his career. After being dropped by United, Greenwood excelled at Getafe with 14 goals in 33 appearances. Marseille offers a large stage for him to re-establish himself. Working with De Zerbi could elevate his game further. With consistent performance, Greenwood might return to the Premier League in a few years. Grade: B+
July 18: Savinho (Troyes to Manchester City, £30m)
For Troyes: A modern example of the downsides of multi-club ownership. Savinho signed for Troyes two years ago but never played. They remain a pawn in the City Football Group’s (CFG) strategy. Troyes will receive a significant sum, but it doesn’t erase their back-to-back relegations since Savinho’s signing. Fans will likely express their frustration with sarcastic chants when the season starts. Grade: F
For Manchester City: A textbook case of CFG’s talent strategy. City acquired Savinho, let him develop at PSV and Girona, and now bring him to the Etihad. The fee is secondary to his potential. Savinho is a promising 20-year-old, already capped seven times by Brazil. He scores, creates, and dribbles exceptionally well. Alongside Jeremy Doku, Savinho will challenge Premier League defenses. Grade: A
For Savinho: A well-earned promotion. He proved his worth at Girona last season, contributing nine goals and ten assists. Although he may not be a key player right away at City, he will be part of the team’s future. Adjusting to the Premier League and Pep Guardiola’s expectations may take time, but Savinho has the talent to quickly become a fan favorite at the Etihad. Grade: A
July 17: Alvaro Morata (Atletico Madrid to AC Milan, €13.5m)
For Atletico Madrid: An expected departure. Despite a strong season with 21 goals in 48 appearances, Morata lost Diego Simeone’s trust. He was even substituted at half-time during the Champions League semi-final against Borussia Dortmund. For a 31-year-old striker, €13.5m is a fair price. This money will be used to acquire a younger, more efficient forward. Grade: B
For AC Milan: A worthwhile risk. Morata has struggled with mental health issues but is a potent forward when confident. His return to Serie A, where his wife is Italian, could boost his happiness and performance. Milan’s younger players should benefit from his experience. With Olivier Giroud leaving, Morata’s hard work and experience make him a valuable addition for a low fee. Grade: B-
For Morata: A predictable move back to Italy. Morata enjoyed his time in Turin and may find Milan equally appealing. Playing alongside Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic should be exciting. New coach Paulo Fonseca reportedly preferred Morata over Joshua Zirkzee, now at Manchester United. Morata may not be a guaranteed starter, especially with Milan seeking another striker. However, he might accept a rotational role and will likely feel at home in Milan. Grade: A
July 14: Joshua Zirkzee (Bologna to Manchester United, £34m)
For Bologna: A tough but expected loss. Bologna knew they couldn’t keep Zirkzee with his €40m buy-out clause. The final fee is slightly higher, but Bologna will only receive half due to a sell-on clause from Bayern Munich. Fans are disappointed, especially after their team’s Champions League qualification. Losing both their coach and star striker is a major setback. Grade: D
For Manchester United: An interesting acquisition. Zirkzee enjoyed his best season yet and earned a Euro 2024 call-up for the Netherlands. His technique is reminiscent of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and should help create chances for players like Alejandro Garnacho. United fended off strong competition from AC Milan, Juventus, and Arsenal. The price is reasonable for a player with potential, though it’s uncertain if he will solve United’s goal-scoring issues, as he scored only 12 goals last season. Grade: B
For Zirkzee: A surprising move. Zirkzee was expected to stay in Serie A, with AC Milan his preferred choice. He has expressed a desire to play in the Champions League, making his transfer to Manchester United unexpected. Despite United’s instability and Rasmus Hojlund’s struggles, Zirkzee’s confidence and skills might quickly win over the Old Trafford crowd. Grade: B+
July 11: Joao Palhinha (Fulham to Bayern Munich, €50m)
For Fulham: An expected departure. Fulham knew they would lose one of the Premier League’s top defensive midfielders. The real surprise is how long it took. Palhinha’s exit is a big loss for Marco Silva’s team. However, Fulham handled it well. By securing a new contract for Palhinha last September, they got a good fee and had time to prepare for his departure. Grade: B
For Bayern: A welcome addition. Bayern missed out on Palhinha last season, which may have affected their performance. Thomas Tuchel might feel some frustration over that missed opportunity. But focusing on the future is key. Palhinha, a top ball-winner as shown at the Euros, should become essential for Bayern. His arrival will help soften the potential loss of Joshua Kimmich. Grade: B+
For Palhinha: The move he has long wanted and earned. His performances for Fulham and Portugal have deserved this opportunity. Although the transfer took longer than hoped, Palhinha will relish his time at Bayern. Playing alongside top talent should be a significant boost for him. Grade: A
July 7: Michael Olise (Crystal Palace to Bayern Munich, €60m)
For Crystal Palace: The best possible outcome. Olise was always going to leave this summer. Palace managed to hold onto him longer than expected. Their goal was to secure a good fee, and they achieved that. Selling him to an overseas club avoids facing him in the Premier League next season. Seeing him join Chelsea would have been tough for the fans. Grade: A
For Bayern Munich: A major statement after signing Joao Palhinha. The fee is high for a 22-year-old with no senior international caps or European experience. Olise’s recent hamstring issues are a concern. Nonetheless, he has great potential as a dribbler and playmaker. He aligns with Bayern’s plan to start a new exciting project. Several Premier League clubs wanted him, making this a noteworthy signing. Grade: B+
For Michael Olise: A smart decision. Returning to Chelsea would have been risky. At Bayern, he faces intense competition but could benefit from potential sales of key players. Olise could form an exciting partnership with Jamal Musiala, reminiscent of past Bayern greats. He also has the chance to prove himself at the highest level. Olise wanted Champions League football, and he will get it at a top club. Grade: A
July 2: Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (Leicester to Chelsea, £30m)
For Leicester: A result of their financial troubles. Leicester’s reckless spending meant selling Dewsbury-Hall was inevitable. Fans are disappointed to see a key academy product leave as they return to the Premier League. Selling him for less than his market value adds to the frustration. Grade: D
For Chelsea: A pragmatic move focused on business. Dewsbury-Hall isn’t an upgrade over Conor Gallagher, who may be leaving soon. However, he could be a solid rotational player. After a strong season under Chelsea’s new manager, he arrives at a favorable price due to Leicester’s financial issues. Grade: C
For Dewsbury-Hall: A chance to prove himself in the Premier League. At 26 and without an England cap, this move offers him the opportunity to show his quality. While Chelsea’s instability might be a challenge, his energy and skill could endear him to the fans. Grade: B+
July 2: Archie Gray (Leeds to Tottenham, £30m)
For Leeds: A tough loss. After losing the Championship play-off final, Leeds had to sell a key asset to balance finances. Parting with Gray, who is just 18 and comes from a notable family, is hard to swallow. On the bright side, Leeds secured a better deal with Spurs, including Joe Rodon, compared to Brentford’s offer. Grade: C+
For Tottenham: A promising acquisition. Gray impressed many clubs last season with his performances in the Championship and FA Cup. Liverpool and Chelsea were also interested. At £30m, he’s a solid investment for a player who can play both right-back and midfield. Ange Postecoglou will be eager to integrate him into his plans. Grade: B+
For Gray: A beneficial move. Though he might have preferred staying at Leeds another season, their promotion failure made his exit inevitable. At Spurs, Gray will likely secure regular Premier League play, which he deserves. Unlike at Chelsea or Liverpool, where game time wasn’t guaranteed, he should thrive at Tottenham. Watch for his impact in 2024-25. Grade: A-
June 30: Douglas Luiz (Aston Villa to Juventus, €28m + Enzo Barrenechea & Samuel Iling-Junior)
For Aston Villa: A tough decision. Villa had to sell Luiz due to PSR issues. He was a sought-after midfielder with two years left on his contract. Acquired for £15m ($19m), his departure is a significant loss. Despite a dip in form towards the end of last season, he contributed nine goals and five assists. Villa gets Barrenechea and Iling-Junior in return, but there’s uncertainty over Barrenechea’s Premier League adaptation after a poor loan at Frosinone. Initially, Weston McKennie was part of the deal, which might have been a better fit. Grade: C-
For Juventus: A welcome reinforcement. With Adrien Rabiot’s future uncertain and no progress on Teun Koopmeiners, Juventus needed midfield strength. Luiz’s goal-scoring ability is a great addition. Sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli deserves praise for acquiring one of Juve’s top targets while offloading two reserves. Grade: B+
For Douglas Luiz: A good move at the right time. Luiz, frequently linked with a transfer, joins a prominent club undergoing a transformation under Thiago Motta. Motta’s success at Bologna suggests he could elevate Luiz’s game. This move presents a chance for Luiz to play a key role in a team aiming for major honors. The 26-year-old and his new club are poised for an exciting chapter. Grade: B+
June 28: Ian Maatsen (Chelsea to Aston Villa, £37.5m)
For Chelsea: A lucrative deal. Chelsea needed to sell players by June to avoid financial penalties. With two international left-backs on their roster, selling Maatsen was a logical choice. Though Maatsen might be a better option than Cucurella or Chilwell, this deal is purely business. Grade: C+
For Aston Villa: A potential fix for their left-back issue. Maatsen’s name appeared in various transfer stories aimed at bypassing PSR rules. Despite a slightly inflated fee, this transfer makes sense. Maatsen excelled during his loan at Borussia Dortmund, even making UEFA’s Champions League Team of the Season and earning a call-up for Euro 2024. Villa addresses two needs with this deal. Grade: B
For Maatsen: A promising new chapter. Although Maatsen might have preferred to stay at Dortmund after his impressive loan spell, Chelsea’s price was a barrier. Moving to Villa could be highly beneficial. Under Unai Emery, Villa is thriving and will compete in the Champions League next season. For Maatsen, Villa offers a step up in quality and stability. Grade: B+
June 22: Estevao Willian (Palmeiras to Chelsea, £29m)
For Palmeiras: Another successful deal. A year after selling Endrick to Real Madrid, Palmeiras secured a similar deal for Estevao. The fee could rise to £52m ($65m). Palmeiras will keep Estevao until he turns 18. It’s unfortunate that such talent leaves Brazil so soon, but this is the current state of the market. Clubs often rely on their academies to balance the books. Palmeiras deserves credit for developing Estevao and securing a high fee for such a young player. Grade: A
For Chelsea: A significant acquisition. Chelsea’s strategy is to buy highly-rated young players, hoping one will succeed. Estevao, however, seems like a promising prospect. Arsenal, Manchester City, PSG, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich also showed interest. Branco, a World Cup winner, claims Estevao is the best Brazilian player since Neymar. Although Estevao won’t join until next summer, he looks set to be worth the wait. Grade: A
For Estevao: A risky move. Estevao had many top European clubs interested. Choosing Chelsea is puzzling given the club’s instability. Many young players at Chelsea haven’t lived up to their price tags. The Blues won’t compete in the Champions League next season, and their managerial changes create uncertainty. Estevao had expressed a desire to join Barcelona, but their financial issues made that impossible. Chelsea’s allure is the potential for game time, but there are concerns about Estevao’s development compared to his compatriot Andrey Santos. Grade: C
June 7: Tosin Adarabioyo (Fulham to Chelsea, free)
For Fulham: A major but expected loss. Adarabioyo’s decision to reject a top contract offer signaled his departure. Losing him for free, especially to Chelsea, is tough for both the club and fans. Grade: F
For Chelsea: A low-key addition. Adarabioyo won’t replace Thiago Silva. His arrival may push Trevoh Chalobah out as Chelsea balance their finances. While solid, Adarabioyo is more of a squad player. Financially, the deal makes sense. Grade: C+
For Adarabioyo: A good time to move up. At 26, he chose Chelsea over Newcastle for the chance at continental play. He might not start immediately and faces risks with Chelsea’s instability. However, familiar surroundings and low pressure could help him perform well. Grade: B
June 3: Kylian Mbappe (PSG to Real Madrid, free)
For Paris Saint-Germain:
Nasser Al-Khelaifi repeatedly claimed PSG would not let their top player leave on a free transfer. Now, it has happened. This situation is both a sporting and financial disaster for PSG. While the club saves on wages, losing Mbappe for nothing is a major blow. His departure highlights the problems with pursuing flashy stars and shows the flaws in PSG’s approach. The damage to their brand is significant. PSG risks becoming irrelevant without their most marketable player. Mbappe was their poster boy and cornerstone. His exit leaves the club’s project in jeopardy. Grade: F
For Real Madrid:
This is perfect for Madrid. Florentino Perez has secured Mbappe without paying a transfer fee. Madrid still pays a high salary and signing bonus, but the deal exceeds expectations. Mbappe, at just 25, is set to reach his peak years. This situation resembles Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival in 2009: a world-class talent poised to excel at Madrid. Despite Mbappe’s arrogance and questions about his role, Carlo Ancelotti is well-equipped to manage him. Grade: A+
For Mbappe:
This move is a dream come true. Mbappe has desired this since childhood and needs it for his career growth. Some believed he was stagnating in Paris and needed a new challenge. Now, he faces the biggest challenge: proving his greatness at Real Madrid. Anything less than Champions League glory and a Ballon d’Or will be seen as failure. However, if Mbappe stays fit, he will excel in Spain, no matter his position. His talent is exceptional. Grade: A+
