Diomandé, Rodri, Bouaddi, Barcola... the biggest transfers of the summer

Bradley Barcola, the French forward who spent three seasons with Paris Saint-Germain, has become the most expensive player ever signed from Ligue 1 after joining Liverpool for an estimated 145 million euros on August 31, 2026. The transfer broke all previous records for players originating from France’s top league, marking a landmark moment in European football transfers. Rodri, the Spanish midfielder who won the World Cup with his national team in 2026 and was awarded the Ballon d’Or in 2024, moved to FC Barcelona on August 18, 2026, signing a four-year contract. The deal, valued at approximately 76.5 million euros including bonuses, was confirmed by Manchester City, which had been in negotiations with the Catalan club over several days. Rodri, who captained Spain during their championship-winning campaign, will join a squad aiming to reclaim its dominance in domestic and continental competitions. Yan Diomandé, a 19-year-old Ivorian winger, became the most expensive signing in Real Madrid's history after joining the club on August 6, 2026, for an estimated 140 million euros including bonuses. Diomandé, who previously played for Leganés in Madrid, made a breakthrough season in the Bundesliga with 12 goals and eight assists, earning him recognition as the best young talent. His move to Madrid sees him join a star-studded attacking lineup under manager Carlo Ancelotti. Ayyoub Bouaddi, the 18-year-old Moroccan midfielder, joined Manchester City on August 26, 2026, for a fee of 100 million euros. The young talent, who impressed during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has signed until 2031. Bouaddi expressed his excitement about joining the club, stating it was a dream come true and that he still has much to learn and improve upon. His arrival adds depth to City’s midfield, especially with the potential to develop into a key player for both club and country. Ferran Torres, the 26-year-old Spanish attacker, joined Paris Saint-Germain on August 15, 2026, for 45 million euros. The former Barcelona player brings experience and versatility, capable of playing multiple roles in attack. Torres, who scored the winning goal in Spain’s World Cup final against Argentina, joins a squad already strengthened by other high-profile signings. His addition complements PSG’s offensive options under coach Luis Enrique, who previously guided him at the national level. Jérémy Jacquet, a 20-year-old French center-back, joined Liverpool on July 1, 2026, for an estimated 70 million euros including bonuses. The young defender, who has yet to make his debut for the French national team, immediately secured a place in the starting XI, replacing Ibrahima Konaté, who moved to Real Madrid. Jacquet’s arrival strengthens Liverpool’s defensive line, providing competition and continuity in a crucial position. Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian icon, joined Trabzonspor on August 6, 2026, for two seasons. The 34-year-old, known for his consistency and goal-scoring ability, brings experience and leadership to the Turkish club. Salah’s move marks another major transfer in the summer, adding to the list of high-profile deals that have reshaped the landscape of European football.