The 2025 summer European transfer window closed on Monday night, bringing weeks of rumours, negotiations and deadline-day chaos to a dramatic end. From Liverpool’s record-breaking signings to Bayern Munich’s cautious business and a wave of under-the-radar moves across the continent, this window will be remembered as one of the most eventful in recent years.

Liverpool Dominate the Headlines

No team made bigger statements than Liverpool. The Merseyside giants first snapped up Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for £116 million, a fee that could rise to £125 million with add-ons. The 22-year-old midfielder has been one of Europe’s brightest prospects, and his arrival signals Liverpool’s commitment to building a squad for both the present and the future.

If that wasn’t enough, Liverpool stunned the market days later by agreeing a British record £125 million deal for Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker, previously at Newcastle, adds firepower to an already dangerous attack. Together, these two signings not only broke records but also shifted the balance of power in the Premier League.

Manchester Clubs Make Their Moves

Manchester City were not to be left behind. Pep Guardiola reinforced his side by signing Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain for €30 million, giving City even more depth between the sticks.

Across town, Manchester United focused on shoring up their defence and goalkeeping options. Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens arrived from Royal Antwerp, while Jadon Sancho finally secured a loan move to Aston Villa. The Sancho saga had been a lingering storyline all summer, and his departure offers him a chance to revive his career.

London Clubs Busy but Divisive

Chelsea and Arsenal were rated among the strongest performers in this window, completing deals that add balance and depth. Chelsea, in particular, worked to trim their squad while strengthening key areas, a strategy fans praised as overdue. Arsenal invested smartly to support Mikel Arteta’s title ambitions.

Yet not every Premier League club impressed. Fulham, Burnley, Leeds and Wolves were criticised for a lack of decisive action, raising concerns about how they will cope with the demands of the new season.

Mixed Fortunes in Germany

In the Bundesliga, Bayern Munich endured a turbulent summer. They spent €88 million and recouped €95 million in sales, but internal disagreements and failed moves left fans unsatisfied. Despite bringing in talent, their grade for the window was a modest “C”, reflecting missed opportunities to bolster key positions.

Free Agents Still Available

Although the window has closed, clubs can still turn to the free-agent market. Christian Eriksen, Michail Antonio, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Fraser Forster headline a strong list of experienced players available without transfer fees. These options could prove invaluable for teams that missed their primary targets.

Under-the-Radar European Transfers

Beyond the big names, there were smart signings across Europe that may not grab headlines but could make the difference later in the season. Lucas Chevalier joined PSG, Inter Milan secured Petar Sučić and Ange-Yoan Bonny, Atlético Madrid landed Álex Baena, Eintracht Frankfurt picked up Jonathan Burkardt, and Girona strengthened with Azzedine Ounahi. Paris FC also made a shrewd addition in Willem Geubbels.

Why This Window Stands Out

This summer’s transfer period will be remembered for several reasons:

  • Record-breaking spending: Liverpool alone twice broke records, showing the financial power of Premier League clubs.
  • Split-window format: Introduced to accommodate the FIFA Club World Cup, the split dates gave clubs more flexibility but also added complexity.
  • Deadline-day drama: From Sancho’s last-minute move to Donnarumma’s switch to City, the final hours lived up to expectations.
  • Global reach: While the Premier League dominated headlines, strategic moves across Spain, Italy and Germany highlighted the strength of European football.

The 2025 summer transfer window proved that football’s financial muscle continues to grow, with Premier League clubs leading the way. Liverpool’s statement signings may define the season, but under-the-radar deals across Europe could prove just as decisive. The real test will come when these new arrivals step onto the pitch and show whether the hype was justified.