As the summer transfer window closes, clubs across Europe have made some last-minute moves to bolster their squads. From the Premier League to La Liga, this year's deadline day has been packed with drama and unexpected transfers. Below are some of the key deals finalized as the window shuts.
Jadon Sancho Signs for Chelsea
In one of the most talked-about moves of the window, Jadon Sancho has completed a transfer from Manchester United to Chelsea. Chelsea submitted a deal sheet before the 11pm deadline, giving them until 1am to finalize the paperwork. Sancho joins on an initial loan, with the London club obligated to make the transfer permanent next summer. The deal is reported to be worth between £20 million and £25 million, depending on performance milestones. Sancho, a key figure for England, will look to rejuvenate his career after a challenging spell at Manchester United.
Kurt Zouma Moves to Saudi Arabia
West Ham United's Kurt Zouma has completed a loan move to Saudi Arabian club Al Orobah. Initially, West Ham had plans to offload the 29-year-old defender to Shabab Al-Ahli on a free transfer, with the Dubai club ready to cover the final year of his contract. However, that deal fell through, and Zouma has now opted for a temporary switch to Al Orobah. This move marks yet another instance of European players heading to the Middle East, highlighting the growing influence of Saudi Arabian football on the global stage.
Sebastien Haller Joins Leganes
Sebastien Haller, formerly of Borussia Dortmund, has joined newly-promoted La Liga side Leganes on a season-long loan. The 29-year-old striker, who has had stints at West Ham United and Ajax, will add experience to the Spanish club’s attacking options. Haller’s journey has been inspirational, overcoming a battle with testicular cancer in 2022 and returning to professional football. He scored 12 goals in 41 appearances for Dortmund and will now look to make an impact in La Liga.
Sofyan Amrabat Heads to Fenerbahce
Sofyan Amrabat has secured a move to Turkish giants Fenerbahce from Fiorentina on a season-long loan with an option to buy. Amrabat, who impressed during the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Morocco, spent last season on loan at Manchester United. Despite showing glimpses of his potential, he struggled to secure a regular starting spot at Old Trafford. The 28-year-old midfielder will now ply his trade in Turkey, where he will not only reunite with former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho but also compete against his old club in the Europa League this season.
More Transfers Shaping the Season
While the transfer window’s final hours saw some high-profile moves, several other deals could prove equally significant as the season progresses. Clubs in Europe and beyond have been strategic in their last-minute signings, focusing on strengthening key areas to improve their chances in domestic and continental competitions.
Clubs Opt for Experience
Interestingly, many clubs have opted to bring in experienced players who can make an immediate impact. The likes of Sebastien Haller and Sofyan Amrabat bring not just skill but a wealth of experience to their new teams. For Haller, the move to Leganes offers a chance to lead the line for a newly promoted La Liga side, while Amrabat’s switch to Fenerbahce sees him continue under the tutelage of experienced coaches in a competitive league. These players are expected to provide leadership and consistency, helping their teams navigate the challenges ahead.
Looking Forward to January
With the January transfer window only a few months away, clubs and players alike will be keeping a close eye on performances in the first half of the season. Some moves made on deadline day might set the stage for even bigger transfers in the winter window, especially for players who still have unsettled futures or are looking to make a mark at their new clubs. The excitement of the transfer market never truly ends, and the drama of player movements will undoubtedly continue to capture the attention of fans worldwide.
Deadline Day (Fabrizio Romano's Instagram account)