New record: amount spent by clubs during the summer transfer window revealed

New record: amount spent by clubs in the summer transfer window revealed

The 2026 World Cup has driven the summer transfer market to its highest level in history — total spending reached a record $9.89 billion. Notably, nearly a third of this amount was spent specifically on transfers of World Cup participants.

According to FIFA research, more than 260 players who participated in the World Cup changed clubs during the summer transfer window. The total revenue from their transfers amounted to $3.3 billion. The number of all international transfers completed between June 1 and September 2 exceeded 12.5 thousand for the first time in history. The organization's report notes that participation in the World Cup opens doors to new opportunities not only for stars but also for young talents.

Top 5 most expensive transfers of the summer:

Enzo Fernández (Argentina) — from Chelsea to Manchester City (€145 million);

Morgan Rogers (England) — from Aston Villa to Chelsea (€138 million);

Elliot Anderson (England) — from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City (€135 million);

Jean Diomandé (Ivory Coast) — from Leipzig to Real Madrid (€125 million);

Bradley Barcola (France) — from PSG to Liverpool (€125 million).

How much did clubs spend and how much did they earn?

English clubs were the absolute leaders in terms of spending. They spent $3.02 billion on players during the summer. They are followed by clubs from Italy ($1.1 billion), Spain ($940 million), Germany ($904 million), and France ($641 million).

In terms of revenue from player sales, French teams lead the way with $1.7 billion. The top five is completed by England ($1.43 billion), Germany ($1.02 billion), Spain ($773 million), and Portugal ($642 million).

Records also broken in women's football

In women's football, spending on international transfers doubled compared to last year, reaching $28.6 million. A record was also set in the number of transfers — 1,406 transfers (a 19.2% increase).

English clubs spent the most in this category as well ($8 million). Spaniards ($6.6 million) and Germans ($4.9 million) secured spots in the top three. Meanwhile, Swedish clubs earned the most from selling female players ($4.2 million). They are followed by clubs from England ($4 million), as well as France and Germany ($3.6 million each).