While rumour mills churn endlessly, let’s focus on what’s official. Here are five major confirmed transfers already reshaping squads for the 2025–26 season:
1. Caoimhín Kelleher → Brentford (€18M)
Caoimhín Kelleher, Liverpool’s long-time backup keeper, has made a major leap by joining Brentford in a €12.5m deal (rising to €18m with add-ons).
-
Why Brentford? After David Raya’s exit, the Bees were seeking a modern shot-stopper comfortable with the ball.
-
Big picture: This marks Brentford’s commitment to building a possession-based style.
2. Man City Sign Four Rising Stars (€112M)
Manchester City made a bold move, confirming the signings of:
-
Rayan Aït-Nouri (Wolves, €35M),
-
Marcus Bettinelli (Fulham, free),
-
Rayan Cherki (Lyon, €40M),
-
Tijjani Reijnders (Milan, €37M).
-
Purpose: To future-proof their squad across defence and midfield.
-
Impact: Cherki and Reijnders could provide depth and dynamism alongside De Bruyne and Rodri.
3. Yasin Özcan → Aston Villa (Joins July 1)
The Turkish wonderkid Yasin Özcan is set to join Aston Villa from Kasımpaşa for €5.8M. The defender has already drawn comparisons to Çağlar Söyüncü for his aggressive yet composed style.
-
Developmental signing: Likely to feature in the U23s but will be integrated slowly into the first team.
-
Unai Emery’s vision: Continue balancing youth with European experience.
4. Leroy Sané → Galatasaray (Free Transfer)
Leroy Sané’s return to the Süper Lig is one of the biggest surprise deals this summer. After his contract ended with Bayern Munich, Galatasaray offered him a marquee role.
-
Homecoming feel: Though German, Sané has Turkish roots and immense fan following in Istanbul.
-
Galatasaray’s intention: To dominate both domestically and in the UEFA competitions.
5. Amadou Onana → Aston Villa (€50M)
In a blockbuster Premier League move, Amadou Onana left Everton to join Villa for €50M. Emery’s rebuild continues with this dynamic, ball-winning midfielder.
-
Midfield dynamo: Onana’s mix of physicality and technicality makes him a standout addition.
-
Why it matters: Signals Villa’s Champions League ambitions are serious.
Final Thoughts
The summer is only beginning, but these early confirmed deals show intent, strategy, and serious investment from top and emerging European clubs. With the window heating up, fans should brace for more surprises.