The summer transfer window is always a time of excitement and speculation for football fans, as clubs across Europe try to strengthen their squads and compete for the best players in the market.
However, not every deal is a success, and some transfers can turn out to be flops or bargains depending on various factors.
With the window still open until September 1, there have already been some notable moves that have caught the eye of pundits and supporters alike. Here are some of the best and worst transfers of the summer window so far, based on their potential impact, value and fit.
The Best Transfers
Christopher Nkunku to Chelsea for $67 million
The French midfielder was one of the standout performers in the Bundesliga last season, scoring 11 goals and providing 15 assists for RB Leipzig. He is a versatile and creative player who can operate in various positions across the midfield and attack, and he has already shown his quality in his first game for Chelsea, scoring a stunning goal against Bournemouth. Nkunku is a perfect fit for Thomas Tuchel’s system (which Pochettino may not use anymore), and he could form a lethal partnership with fellow countryman N’Golo Kante in the middle of the park.
Kim Min-jae to Bayern Munich for $56 million
The South Korean defender was named Serie A’s Best Defender last season, helping Napoli win their first Scudetto since 1990. He is a towering and imposing centre-back who is strong in the air, composed on the ball and capable of launching long passes to the forwards. He has joined Bayern Munich, where he will partner Matthijs de Ligt in a formidable defensive duo that could dominate Europe for years to come. Kim is also a threat from set-pieces, scoring six goals for Napoli last term.
Tijjani Reijnders to Milan for $17.1 million
The Dutch midfielder was one of the revelations of the Europa League last season, scoring four goals and providing six assists for AZ Alkmaar. He is a technical and creative midfielder who can play in various roles, from deep-lying playmaker to attacking midfielder. He has joined Milan, where he will wear the iconic No 14 shirt previously worn by legends such as Marco van Basten and Thierry Henry. Reijnders has the potential to become a star for Milan and follow in the footsteps of his compatriots.
The worst transfers
Mason Mount to Manchester United for $72 million
The English midfielder had a disappointing season with Chelsea, scoring only three goals in 35 appearances in all competitions. He was often criticised for his lack of end product and consistency, and he failed to impress under both Frank Lampard and Thomas Tuchel. He has joined Manchester United, where he will face stiff competition for a place in the starting line-up from Bruno Fernandes and Donny van de Beek. It is hard to see how Mount will improve United’s midfield or justify his hefty price tag .
Declan Rice to Arsenal for $130 million:
The England midfielder became the most expensive English player ever after his move from West Ham to Arsenal. He is a solid and reliable player who can protect the back four and dictate the tempo of the game. However, he is not worth such a huge amount of money, especially when Arsenal have other areas that need more urgent improvement. Rice is also unlikely to help Arsenal challenge for major trophies, as they have not qualified for any European competition this season.
James Trafford to Burnley for $15 million:
The England U21 goalkeeper was one of the heroes of the European Championship this summer, saving two penalties in the final shootout against France. He has joined Burnley, where he will replace Nick Pope as the first-choice keeper after his move to Tottenham. However, this could be a case of too much too soon for Trafford, who has only made six senior appearances in his career so far. He will face a lot of pressure and scrutiny at Burnley, who are expected to struggle in the Premier League this season .
