Summary of the Transfer Window – Expensive Signings and How They Have Fared So Far

With the first six matches of the Premier League season now behind us, a pressing question emerges – have the pricey summer signings justified their substantial fees?

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the standout transfers, examining their performances and contributions to their teams to see if they’re worth the financial gamble.

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5) Manuel Ugarte – £42.3m

Manuel Ugarte, the fifth most expensive signing of the transfer window, moved from PSG to Manchester United towards the end of the summer window. Although it is early to assess the Uruguayan’s overall quality, he has yet to justify his price tag.

Ugarte has featured in three Premier League matches so far, with two coming as late-game substitutions. His first league start against Tottenham was disappointing, as the team struggled, leading to criticism from both his own and opposition fans.

4) Amadou Onana – £50m

Amadou Onana exemplifies an ideal signing and an excellent replacement for Aston Villa following the departure of midfielder Douglas Luiz to Juventus this summer. Onana has seamlessly stepped into Luiz’s role and may even have the potential to surpass the Brazilian’s brief tenure at Villa. So far this season, Onana has scored twice in the Premier League and netted a crucial goal against BSC Young Boys in Aston Villa’s historic opening Champions League match.

Aston Villa are currently 10/11 to secure a top-six finish in the Premier League, and 4/5 to finish in the top eight of the Champions League. As mentioned, Amadou Onana has had a significant impact on the team and has proven to be a fantastic signing for Unai Emery’s men.

3) Pedro Neto – £51.4m

Neto’s summer transfer from Wolves to Chelsea for £51.4 million may seem steep, but the Portuguese international has already begun to showcase the exceptional talent he displayed during his time at Wolves. Chelsea fans generally seem pleased with the signing after the initial games of the season, as Neto adds much-needed depth to the squad amid a demanding schedule of league and cup fixtures.

Additionally, Chelsea are competing in the European Conference League this season, where they are currently the 13/8 favourites to win the tournament. With players like Neto available for rotation and a robust squad depth, particularly in attacking positions, Chelsea’s chances of success look promising. Overall, Neto appears to be a solid addition to the squad.

2) Leny Yoro – £52.1m

The second most expensive signing of the summer transfer window is a challenging case to evaluate. Young centre-back Leny Yoro joined Manchester United from Lille for £52.1 million, but unfortunately suffered an injury during pre-season.

However, his promise suggests that this signing could be a significant asset in the long run. Given Manchester United’s rocky start to the season, fans will likely be pleased to know that Yoro is expected to return soon, bringing hope for a stronger defence and a turnaround in the team’s fortunes.

1) Dominic Solanke – £55m

The most expensive signing in the Premier League this summer was Dominic Solanke, who transferred from Bournemouth to Tottenham for £55 million. This hefty price tag likely reflects Bournemouth’s awareness that Tottenham were in desperate need of a replacement for Harry Kane, who departed for Bayern Munich.

However, Solanke had already proven himself as a reliable goalscorer in the Premier League during his time at Bournemouth. He has taken on the pivotal centre-forward role previously held by Kane and has also done well in linking up play.

While he has not quite matched Kane’s precise finishing, he has found the back of the net twice in the league, including in a recent 3-0 victory against Manchester United. Overall, Solanke has emerged as a valuable addition to Tottenham, fulfilling their need for a goalscoring striker and justifying the investment made in him.