European Transfer Market Analysis 2025: Winners and Losers
The summer 2025 transfer market in the major European leagues has come to an end. Clubs can no longer make any moves until January. At Alofoke Deportes, we thoroughly analyze the most outstanding movements, identifying the teams that emerged victorious and those that suffered losses.
Market Winners: Liverpool, Arsenal, and Real Madrid
We start with the main protagonists: Liverpool. Although time will tell if this was the most successful transfer window in history, the investment in new players was notable. They broke the British transfer record twice, incorporating Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak. In addition, they added Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong and Giovanni Leoni to their ranks. These incorporations complement an already champion team that secured the continuity of Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk with new contracts.Liverpool: Julien Laurens analyzes Liverpool’s performance despite their victory over Arsenal.
Arsenal, for its part, also showed ambition, reinforcing its squad with eight players to compete for the title. Viktor Gyökeres, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke strengthened the attack; Martín Zubimendi and Christian Nørgaard, the midfield; Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié, the defense; and Kepa Arrizabalaga, the goal. The depth of the squad is now greater, allowing them to face injuries and absences with more guarantees.Arsenal: Steve Nicol criticizes Mikel Arteta’s approach in Arsenal’s defeat against Liverpool.
Real Madrid, after a disappointing season, reacted quickly with the arrival of Xabi Alonso as coach and the incorporation of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Álvaro Carreras and Franco Mastantuono. The continuity of Rodrygo was also a point in favor, strengthening the team’s offensive options. The objective: to dethrone Barcelona.
Neutrals: Manchester United and Manchester City
Manchester United had a mixed transfer market. While they spent on Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, they also brought in young prospects like Benjamin Sesko and Senne Lammens. In addition, they got rid of several players who were not in their plans. Overall, their balance is neutral.Manchester United: It is analyzed whether the lower pressure at Napoli will help Højlund’s success.
Manchester City, for its part, made interesting moves, such as the arrival of Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Aït-Nouri. However, the incorporations of Rayan Cherki and Gianluigi Donnarumma raise doubts about their fit in Pep Guardiola’s scheme. The departure of important players like Manuel Akanji and Éderson also raises questions. Although the team seems rejuvenated, it remains to be seen if their performance has improved.Manchester City: It is analyzed whether Manchester City can close the signing of Donnarumma.
Market Losers: Newcastle, Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich, and Aston Villa
Newcastle United suffered a complicated market, marked by the departure of Alexander Isak. Although they finally incorporated Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa, they failed to cover the loss of Isak and Callum Wilson, which weakens their squad.
Bayer Leverkusen, despite generating revenue, lost talent and experience. The departure of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Jonathan Tah and other key players, coupled with the dismissal of their coach Erik ten Hag, has led them to a reconstruction.Bayer Leverkusen: It is debated whether Bayer Leverkusen made the right decision by firing Erik ten Hag.
Bayern Munich had difficulties in securing signings. Although they incorporated Jonathan Tah, they lost Leroy Sané, Thomas Müller, and Kingsley Coman. Jamal Musiala’s injury and the signings of Luis Díaz and Nicolas Jackson, the latter with a considerable investment, did not fully convince.
Aston Villa, under financial restrictions, had a frustrating market. Despite the arrival of Victor Lindelöf, Jadon Sancho, and Harvey Elliott, the loss of Jacob Ramsey and the frustrated departure of Emiliano Martínez complicated their situation, hindering the improvement of the team.
