Before the winter transfer window begins in January 2023, let’s take a look at the 5 most expensive deals of the 2022 summer transfer window.
Antony to Manchester United (£85.5m)
Antony’s move to Manchester United is an interesting tale. For months, the Red Devils had pursued him, and they finally appeared ready to let up. Antony did a number of things to try to get transferred, such as not showing up for Ajax training sessions and openly demanding to be released.
United paid the Dutch club over £85 million to bring the Brazilian winger home to play alongside Erik ten Hag. After Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku, he became United’s third most expensive acquisition ever.
Wesley Fofana to Chelsea (£72.3m)
This summer, Chelsea spent over £150 million only on defenders, and the cost they paid Fofana was their biggest ever.
The thorn in their side is Leicester City, who despite having a shaky start to the season, refuse to part with their top defense. Fofana, however, did all in her power to make it possible for him to leave the Foxes and play for the other team.
Despite the lateness of the agreement, Chelsea has already secured its player for a large sum, albeit they need not surpass the £80 million that Manchester United spent for Harry Maguire three years ago. Fofana is currently under pressure to justify his status as one of the most expensive central defenders in the world.
Aurelien Tchouameni to Real Madrid (£72m)
Having won both La Liga and the Champions League in the previous year, Carlo Ancelotti decided to strengthen his team’s midfield.
Highly regarded French midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni is being eyed as a potential replacement for Casemiro at Real Madrid. Despite PSG’s best efforts, Tchouameni ultimately decided to relocate to Spain.
For Madrid, the price tag of £72 million was astronomical, making him one of the most expensive moves in history.
Darwin Nuñez to Liverpool (£67.5m)
Liverpool wasted little time in signing Darwin Nuez, one of the most promising young forwards in European football. Last season, the Uruguayan was a hero for Benfica, helping them win the Champions League with six of his 34 goals.
In contrast, the Benfica squad is not cheap. The striker was one of the most expensive acquisitions of the summer, costing Liverpool a record £67.5m. Many holes needed to be filled, but Nunez got a huge break when he was signed by Liverpool.
Casemiro to Manchester United (£63.5m)
Their top target, Frenkie de Jong, has steadfastly refused to leave Barcelona. United had no choice but to pivot and get a star player because of this. The transfer of Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro to Manchester United has been finalized.
One of the most expensive summer acquisitions, they forked out a stunning £63m to get his services.
