Image Credits: RealMadrid.com

Every year from June 14 to August 30, the soccer world goes through a time of change. Many clubs receive new additions to their rosters while other clubs save vast amounts of money by losing members of their team. This period allows clubs to improve their squads or make renovations within their facilities and stadiums while granting players time to rest. Every year, the transfer window has multiple game-changing transfers which change the trajectories of many clubs. Last summer’s transfer window was especially exciting with transfers costing up to 95 million EUR (141 000 000 CAD). Many of these highly anticipated transfers have helped teams improve their squad and increase their win percentage.

This year, the highly anticipated transfer of Kylian Mbappé from Paris Saint Germain to Real Madrid shocked the world as it was revealed to be a free transfer, when a contract is not renewed. This is regarded as, “The most expensive free transfer in history” as Mbappé is currently ranked as the fourth most valuable soccer player in the world, valued at over 180 million EUR (260 million CAD). For seven straight years, the offensive prodigy has played for Paris Saint Germain. After years of rejecting other clubs, Mbappé decided to leave Paris Saint Germain and head to Real Madrid, opening a new and exciting chapter in his career.

Julian Alvarez’ transfer from Manchester City to Athletico Madrid is also unprecedented this season, holding the crown for the most expensive transfer in the 2024 summer window. The young World Cup winner and goal scoring machine for Manchester City is Athletico Madrid’s second-most expensive transfer to date, a tribute to his youth and talent. Athletico has confirmed that Alvarez has signed a six-year deal with the club, creating many opportunities for the young Argentinian prodigy.

Spanish Euro-winning midfielder Dani Olmo has also transferred from RB Leipzig to Barcelona this summer. For 60 million EUR (90 million CAD), Dani Olmo has signed a six-year contract with Barcelona. From Croatia, Dani Olmo went to RB Leipzig in January of 2020. He played there for almost four years, guiding RB Leipzig to win the Bundesliga for their first time. Speaking about his departure, Olmo says: “It was indescribable to play for this club and in front of these fans. It was a dream for me to move from Croatia to Leipzig four and a half years ago.” This legendary player has just started his career and will continue to succeed at Barcelona.

The 2024 summer transfer window has changed the course of many players’ careers such as Kylian Mbappé, Julian Alvarez, Dani Olmo, and many more aspiring players. This will change the outcomes of many games and competitions due to how impactful these players are to their squads. Mbappé will certainly reform the offense of Real Madrid while Dani Olmo will significantly aid in Barcelona’s midfield, which may shape the future of these clubs and the sport.