Grading the Summer’s Biggest Football Transfers: A Comprehensive Review
As the summer transfer window rolls on, football fans around the world find themselves in the thick of one of the most exhilarating times of the year. For some, the off-season is the period they eagerly anticipate the most, as it signals the start of a new chapter filled with transfer speculations, big-money moves, and the hope of seeing their favorite club strengthen for the battles ahead. And while the window might be closing soon, the rumors and last-minute deals continue to dominate the headlines, with the biggest names being linked to the biggest clubs.
In the world of football, transfers can be a make-or-break scenario for everyone involved. A well-executed transfer can elevate a club to new heights or provide a player with the perfect platform to showcase their talents. On the flip side, a poorly considered move can leave clubs and players alike pondering what could have been if a different decision had been made during negotiations. With that in mind, GOAL has taken it upon itself to provide fans with real-time grades on some of the most significant transfers as they happen, offering insight into who emerged as the biggest winners—and losers—of this summer’s transfer season.
Check out our latest evaluations of the major transfers below, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
August 23: Ilkay Gundogan (Barcelona to Manchester City, Free Transfer)
For Barcelona:
This move is nothing short of a disaster for Barcelona. Just a year after pulling off a major coup by persuading one of the world’s best midfielders to reject higher offers elsewhere and come to Catalonia, the financially-strapped club is now forced to let him go for free. Despite Gundogan being Barcelona’s standout player last season, contributing 14 assists across all competitions, the club’s self-inflicted financial woes have made his departure inevitable. The most embarrassing part? Barcelona had to offload Gundogan simply to register their only major summer signing, Dani Olmo. The fact that they let a player of Gundogan’s caliber leave with two years left on his contract, and for nothing, is further proof of the shambles that FC Barcelona has become. Grade: F
For Manchester City:
This is a surprising but highly welcome return for City. Although they managed to secure the Premier League title last season without Gundogan, his absence was felt in key moments, especially during crunch time. Known for his ability to turn into “prime Zinedine Zidane” in big games, as Kyle Walker once quipped, Gundogan still possesses the talent and mentality to excel at the highest level. While he might not be a regular starter, his winning mindset and experience are invaluable assets. Pep Guardiola is reportedly thrilled to have his former captain back in the squad, which speaks volumes. Signing their treble-winning leader on a free transfer at 33 years old was a no-brainer for City. Grade: B+
For Gundogan:
This was undoubtedly the best option available to him. While Gundogan would have been happy to stay at Barcelona—having left City at the perfect time after their treble-winning season—he couldn’t escape the club’s ongoing financial nightmare. Though he could have pursued other opportunities, Gundogan, a fierce competitor, believes he still has much to offer at the highest level. His stats back this up, as only Bruno Fernandes created more chances than Gundogan across Europe’s top five leagues last season. Slotting back into Guardiola’s system should be seamless for him. Grade: A
August 22: Mikel Merino (Real Sociedad to Arsenal, £30m)
For Real Sociedad:
Losing Merino is a significant blow for La Real, but it’s not an unexpected one. Merino was a key figure in Sociedad’s historic qualification for last season’s Champions League and their subsequent run to the last 16. However, with just one year left on his contract, a summer sale became almost a necessity. Sociedad played their cards well, holding firm on their valuation and ultimately making three times what they paid Newcastle for him six years ago. While it’s a setback, it was a smart piece of business. Grade: B
For Arsenal:
The Gunners have finally secured the player they’ve long coveted. Arsenal’s persistence in pursuing Merino has paid off, and they’ve landed a midfielder who can make an immediate impact. While Merino may not have much resale value, he’s been brought in for his ability to contribute here and now. The Spain international is a dynamic player, having won more duels than anyone else in Europe’s top five leagues last season. His aerial prowess and goal-scoring threat, showcased by his quarter-final winner against Germany at the Euros, make him a perfect fit for Arsenal’s midfield. Mikel Arteta’s desire to sign him is understandable, and at £30m, he’s arrived for a reasonable price. Grade: B+
For Merino:
This move represents a second chance for Merino in the Premier League, and this time, the odds are in his favor. His previous stint with Newcastle in 2017-18 yielded just one goal in 17 appearances, but Merino has since developed into one of the world’s top midfielders, particularly in winning possession high up the field. After his most prolific campaign yet, netting eight times last season, Merino is now expected to deliver for Arsenal. Partnering with Declan Rice should bring out the best in him, just as his partnership with Zubimendi did at Sociedad. Grade: A
August 21: Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid to Chelsea, £46m)
For Atletico Madrid:
This is a win for Atletico. By effectively trading Felix for Conor Gallagher, they’ve strengthened their midfield without weakening their attack, all while making a small but significant profit. Although they’re taking a hit on the player they bought for €126 million five years ago, the relief of offloading a player who has been a burden for years cannot be overstated. Felix’s unsuccessful loan spells and lack of faith from Diego Simeone made this move inevitable. Grade: A
For Chelsea:
This transfer defies logic, even by Chelsea’s standards. The decision seems financially motivated, tied to Gallagher’s move to Atletico and the collapse of a previously agreed swap. Felix, who struggled to impress during his 2023 loan spell at Stamford Bridge, does not fit into Chelsea’s plans. The question remains: why sign him now after he flopped at Barcelona? This move appears to be another example of the chaotic and seemingly directionless transfer strategy under Clearlake Capital’s ownership. Grade: F
For Felix:
This transfer is far from ideal, but Felix had limited options. No other top European club showed interest in signing the Portuguese international, who has consistently underperformed since his time at Benfica. His talent is undeniable, but inconsistency has plagued his career. Returning to Chelsea, a club with an already bloated squad, presents him with more uncertainty rather than the stability he desperately needs. Grade: F
August 21: Conor Gallagher (Chelsea to Atletico Madrid, €42m)
For Chelsea:
Selling Gallagher is a glaring indictment of Chelsea’s chaotic transfer policy. Gallagher was one of the club’s standout performers last season, ranking third in Premier League goal involvements and winning possession more times than any of his teammates. Yet, he’s been sold purely because he’s an academy product, allowing the club to balance the books amid their reckless spending spree. The decision to offload a homegrown hero while retaining underperforming signings is a move that fans are unlikely to forgive easily. Grade: F
For Atletico Madrid:
This is an intriguing move that could go either way. Few expected Atletico to spend so much on Gallagher, and there were even rumors that they would have preferred Valencia’s Javi Guerra. However, Gallagher’s high-energy, all-action style of play makes him a perfect fit for Diego Simeone’s system. The pressure will be on Gallagher to adapt to La Liga and prove that he can thrive in Spain, but his work ethic and versatility could make him a valuable asset for Atletico. The added bonus of offloading Joao Felix sweetens the deal even more. Grade: A-
For Gallagher:
Leaving Chelsea is undoubtedly a painful experience for Gallagher, who has been with the club since he was eight years old. While he may have preferred a move to another Premier League side, joining Atletico Madrid could be a blessing in disguise. Working under a coach like Simeone, who values tenacious midfielders, could help Gallagher take his game to the next level. Additionally, Atletico’s ambitions in La Liga make this an exciting time to join the club. Although it may not feel like it now, this move could end up being the best thing to happen to Gallagher’s career. Grade: B+
August 17: Desire Doue (Rennes to Paris Saint-Germain, €50m)
For Rennes:
This transfer further underscores the exceptional work being done by Rennes’ academy. Following in the footsteps of Ousmane Dembele, Mathys Tel, and Eduardo Camavinga, Doue’s departure is a testament to the club’s ability to develop and sell prodigious talents for significant sums. While replacing the winger, who contributed four goals and four assists in just 17 Ligue 1 starts last season, won’t be easy, Rennes has a proven track record of grooming new stars. Grade: A
For Paris Saint-Germain:
This signing is another exciting addition to PSG’s roster. While their recruitment strategy has drawn comparisons to Chelsea’s, PSG’s focus on quality over quantity sets them apart. Securing Doue, who was also on the radar of Manchester United and Bayern Munich, is a real coup for the Parisian club. The 19-year-old is a two-footed dribbler with immense potential, and although the fee is substantial, his
age suggests that PSG sees this as a long-term investment. If Doue can adapt to the high expectations at PSG, this could be a masterstroke. Grade: A-
For Doue:
Joining PSG is undoubtedly a huge step up for the youngster, but it’s also a risky one. While the move offers the chance to play for a club with genuine Champions League ambitions, it also comes with the pressure of performing at the highest level in a squad filled with superstars. Doue’s ability to rise to the occasion and establish himself in the starting lineup will be key to determining whether this move was the right one for his career. Grade: B
These are just a few of the most significant transfers we’ve graded so far this summer. With the window still open, more deals are sure to follow. Keep an eye out for our ongoing analysis and updates as the transfer saga continues!