Money Moves: Analyzing the Crucial Transfers of the 2024-25 Campaign
The transfer window is one of the most exciting periods in the world of football, a time when teams across leagues have the opportunity to strengthen their squads, offload surplus players, and secure fresh talent. For fans, it’s a rollercoaster of emotions—anticipation, speculation, and sometimes, heartbreak. Whether it's a record-breaking signing, a surprise departure, or the emergence of a new star, the transfer window never fails to capture the imagination of football enthusiasts worldwide. With the Olympic Final and European Championships taking place over the summer, many player values skyrocketed, leading to the buy-through form initiative being taken forward.
During this period, clubs engage in intense negotiations, often under the pressure of tight deadlines, to make strategic decisions that could define their season. For managers, it’s a balancing act between securing the right talent while managing budgets and team dynamics. For players, it’s a time of uncertainty and opportunity—new beginnings in a different league, a fresh start with a new club, or even the possibility of staying put and proving their worth. It’s not quite closed yet, so opportunities are far from done.
As the transfer window swings open, the football world holds its breath, waiting to see which clubs will emerge as winners, which fans will be left celebrating, and who might face some form of disappointment. In this article, we’ll delve into the biggest moves of the window, analyze the strategies behind the scenes, and explore the impact these transfers could have on the upcoming season. While the financially substantial deals are pivotal, such as global superstar Kylian Mbappé’s long-awaited move to Real Madrid, other deals can perhaps lead to similar results. The transfer window will close on August 30th.
Dani Olmo to FC Barcelona – 8/10
What a Euros campaign it was for now former RB Leipzig midfielder Dani Olmo. Earning the Golden Boot for a campaign with three goals, while picking up two assists along the way, the market was hot for the signature of the Spaniard. Following the tournament, FC Barcelona paid $60.4 million for him, ensuring his return to Spain. A former La Masia product, Olmo is seen to fit in with the footballing philosophy with ease, however, questions have been raised regarding the necessity of his acquisition with many stating that the club should have prioritized his Spain teammate, Nico Williams as a more natural wide option.
Julián Álvarez to Atlético de Madrid – 9/10
The former Manchester City star is a versatile workhorse. As a World Cup winner in 2022, and treble winner in 2023, the career of the Argentine is practically complete. He can be deployed as a second striker, shadow striker, on either wing, as a 10, or just as a natural striker, this caliber of versatility is appreciated under the management of Diego Simeone. Los Colchoneros forked up $82.7 million for the forward, making him their second most expensive player ever.
Kylian Mbappé to Real Madrid – 10/10
There is no other manner to treat this bit of business. An heir to the Galacticos, the star that Los Blancos have been attempting to get their hands on ever since his heroics in the 2018 World Cup. This transfer was truly meant to be. With his directness in attack and help around him, it is truly difficult to see the side not making a serious threat in every competition. Unbelievable deal, however, it was inevitable.
Douglas Luiz to Juventus – 8/10
The 26-year-old Brazilian midfielder recently joined the Old Lady for $53.5 million in this transfer window. The deal also involved a swap between Luiz, Samuel Iling-Junior, and Argentine Enzo Barrenechea to seal the negotiation. The signing brings a much-needed physical presence in midfield for Juventus, a side that is currently going through a revolution. The team attempted to win the Serie A again after a semi-drought without getting their hands on the coveted Scudetto that they so dearly desired.
Matthijs de Ligt to Manchester United – 6/10
The art of Manchester United was displayed with the transfer of Matthijs de Ligt. While the Dutchman is talented and capable of leaving a mark, the side paid $50 million for the defender, who has struggled to make a mark at either of his clubs since departing Ajax. The former Ajax captain lost his starting spot at FC Bayern to Eric Dier and was dropped for the Netherlands in the European Championship fixtures. The ball-playing defender is certainly talented, and he possesses exceptional leadership traits. However, the move forces the thought of Manchester United simply buying what another club did not want. It will be intriguing to see how he impacts the team.
