Top Transfers of the Summer: The Most Expensive XI Signed So Far
Priya Nambiar July 10, 2026 09:12 PM

10 July 2026

European clubs have already opened their wallets wide this summer, with several high-profile sides breaking their own transfer records in a bid to strengthen their squads for the new season.

Here’s a look at the most expensive eleven players signed so far during this summer’s transfer window.

Goalkeeper: Ewen Jaouen – Newcastle United (£24.2m)

Newcastle United kicked off their summer business by securing the signing of young French goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen from Reims for £24.2 million. The 20-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Ligue 2 last season, helping Reims narrowly miss out on promotion.

Right-back: Marco Palestra – Chelsea (£47m)

Marco Palestra became the first major arrival under Xabi Alonso’s management at Chelsea, joining for a £47 million fee. The 21-year-old impressed during his loan spell at Cagliari last season, earning the Serie A Best Defender award for 2025/26 and making his senior debut for Italy.

Centre-back: Jeremy Jacquet – Liverpool (£55m)

Liverpool finalised a deal for French defender Jeremy Jacquet back in January, with the player linking up with the Reds this summer. Jacquet arrives at Anfield tasked with filling the void left by Ibrahima Konate’s departure to Real Madrid.

Centre-back: Jan Paul van Hecke – Tottenham Hotspur (£52m)

Tottenham Hotspur have been one of the most active clubs in the transfer market, having already spent more than £200 million. Among their major acquisitions is Jan Paul van Hecke, who reunites with former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi in North London.

Left-back: Marc Cucurella – Real Madrid (£47.5m)

Marc Cucurella’s return to Spain was finalised after Real Madrid beat off competition from Atletico Madrid and Barcelona to sign the defender from Chelsea for £47.5 million. The Spanish international’s move marks a new chapter for him in La Liga.

Midfield: Elliot Anderson – Manchester City (£116m)

Elliot Anderson’s move to Manchester City is the standout transfer of the summer so far, costing £116 million. The deal makes him the most expensive English player in history and the second costliest Premier League signing ever. The midfielder’s arrival at the Etihad reflects City’s intent to maintain their domestic and European dominance.

Midfield: Sandro Tonali – Tottenham Hotspur (£100m)

Tottenham shattered their transfer record once more by completing a £100 million deal for Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United. Widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s most complete midfielders, Tonali’s signing signals Spurs’ growing ambitions under their current project.

Midfield: Mateus Fernandes – Tottenham Hotspur (£85m)

Just days before Tonali’s arrival, Tottenham had already broken their record to sign Mateus Fernandes from relegated West Ham United for £85 million. The Brazilian midfielder attracted interest from top European clubs, but Spurs moved quickly to secure his signature.

Right-wing: Ismael Saibari – Bayern Munich (£47m)

Bayern Munich finalised the transfer of Ismael Saibari early in the window following his outstanding performances for Morocco at the World Cup. The winger netted 19 goals last season for PSV Eindhoven and was named Eredivisie Player of the Year, making him one of Europe’s hottest prospects.

Left-wing: Anthony Gordon – Barcelona (£69m)

Anthony Gordon made history by becoming only the third English player to represent Barcelona in the past century. The £69 million transfer from Newcastle United follows an impressive European campaign in which Gordon scored 10 goals in 12 Champions League matches, catching the attention of the Spanish champions.

Forward: Goncalo Ramos – AC Milan (£63m)

AC Milan broke their club transfer record to sign Goncalo Ramos from Paris Saint-Germain for £63 million. The Portuguese striker struggled for consistent minutes in Paris, but new Milan manager Ruben Amorim hopes his compatriot can spearhead a resurgence at the San Siro.

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