European transfer buzz and Club World Cup breakout stars

European football season ended with a statement, as Paris Saint-Germain thrashed Inter Milan 5–0. Some would argue a new powerhouse has arrived — ready to dominate the game for years to come.

With the summer transfer window open until September 1, every team is looking to upgrade. Deals are already in motion, and many clubs aren’t wasting time. Let’s take a look at what’s going on:

Premier League 

The richest league in the world is no stranger to big spending, and this window has already delivered moves that could change the game.

Fresh off their title win, Liverpool didn’t hesitate. The Reds snapped up right-back Jeremie Frimpong, left-back Milos Kerkez, and creative midfielder Florian Wirtz — the latter arriving for a British record fee. All three are under 25 and expected to start right away. It is a huge boost for new manager Arne Slot, especially after losing club icon Trent Alexander-Arnold in late May.

“Attack wins you games, defense wins you titles” —a line Mikel Arteta has adopted at the start of this window. After finishing runners-up for a third straight season, the Arsenal boss is going all-in. So far, the Gunners have brought in goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and midfield anchor Martín Zubimendi. Now, all signs point to Cristian Mosquera joining next, after the young centre-back turned down a contract renewal from Valencia.

Meanwhile, the transfer rumor mill is making sound with links to Viktor Gyökeres, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze. The Swedish striker and the two electric wingers could add a whole new dimension to Arsenal’s attack —potentially making this one of their biggest transfer windows ever.

Manchester City, the most dominant English club in recent years, ended this season without silverware. After losing the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace, Pep Guardiola’s side traveled to the United States for the Club World Cup, where fans got their first look at new signings: midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri and the magic midfielder Rayan Cherki. All three slotted in seamlessly —so expect the Cityzens to be serious contenders for the Premier League title once again.

Rayan Cherki grabbed an assist during his cameo against Al Hilal. (via Cherki X account)

Meanwhile, Chelsea is on an upward trajectory. They became the youngest side in Premier League history, with an average age of just 24 years and 36 days. That didn’t stop them from qualifying for the Champions League — their first time back since the new ownership took over — and winning the UEFA Conference League in style with a 4–1 win over Real Betis.

So far, the Blues have signed striker Liam Delap (22), centre-back Mamadou Sarr (19) from Strasbourg and just unveiled Brazilian forward João Pedro (23) earlier today. English winger Jamie Bynoe-Gittens (20) is expected to be next, after reaching an agreement with Borussia Dortmund. Ghanaian playmaker Mohammed Kudus (24) is heavily linked with a move to West London. Chelsea has clearly embraced the youth movement, and it is beginning to pay off.

Elsewhere in Europe

Clubs across the continent are also making big moves, and big statements.

Real Madrid wasted no time in landing long-term target Trent Alexander-Arnold, the most dangerous full-back in world football- on a free transfer. They also brought in Spanish centre-back Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth. But the biggest addition might be on the touchline: Xabi Alonso has taken over as manager, promising a more expansive style than his predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti. Pressure is way bigger in the Spanish capital but anything close to the historic double with Bayer Leverkusen — including an unbeaten Bundesliga title — would be a huge success.

Barcelona also moved quickly, bringing in goalkeeper Joan García (24) from city rivals Espanyol with hopes of locking down the position for the next decade. Veteran Wojciech Szczęsny (35) returned from retirement last season and played a key role in Barca’s run to the Champions League semi finals. A smart long-term plan in motion at Camp Nou.

Joan García was crucial in helping Espanyol avoid relegation (via FC Barcelona site)

Atlético Madrid have no time to regret a disappointing campaign. They’ve added three international players in left-back Matteo Ruggeri, attacking midfielder Álex Baena, and midfield anchor Johnny Cardoso, all 23 or younger —in an effort to inject new life into the squad.

The third giant of Spanish first tier football is also busy. After a disastrous season, Atlético de Madrid wasted no time and secured the services of left-back Matteo Ruggeri (23), advanced midfielder Álex Baena (23) and anchor Johnny Cardoso (23). All three international players, expected to revitalise the squad.

Club World Cup Sensations

Amid the success of the tournament currently being played in the USA, Al Hilal stunned the world by defeating Manchester City against all odds. The Saudi side is the latest to shake up the global football scene. Several players have also stolen the spotlight, potentially earning themselves moves to top European clubs once the competition ends.

It’s safe to say this has been the tournament of Colombian midfielders. Both Richard Ríos (Palmeiras) and Nelson Deossa (Monterrey) have been vital to their teams, electrifying fans every time they touch the ball with their athleticism, technique and reading of the game. Both are also powerful ball-carriers with long-range striking ability. Deossa even scored one of the goals of the tournament in a stunning strike against Urawa Reds.

Both at 25, they’ve drawn serious interest. Ríos —who also was impressive in Copa América last summer— has been on the radar of Inter Milan, Porto and Manchester United. Don’t be surprised if Deossa receives the same level of attention.

Nelson Deossa and Richard Rios have been both magnificent. Colombian stars. (Own edit)

Jhon Arias is the third Colombian lighting up the tournament. The dynamic winger is in the form of his life and was key in Fluminense’s 2–0 win over Inter. A constant threat on either flank, defenders have struggled to contain him. His brilliant free kick against Korean side Ulsan HD was one of the highlights of the group stages round.

Igor Jesus (24) made headlines with his winner against Paris Saint-Germain. Despite Botafogo getting knocked out in the last round, his performances stood out the most. With a unique hold-up style and strong link-up play, he drew comparisons to Didier Drogba. A major comparison that highlights how good the striker is, and rumours say he’s on the verge of joining Nottingham Forest.

And then there’s Wesley França, a flying full-back. At just 21, the Flamengo star has pace, flair, and intelligence. Brighton and Serie A clubs have taken notice. He may be playing his final games in Brazil before taking the next step —and likely becoming a regular for the national team.

Keep an eye on these five rising stars, with European moves on the horizon.

Brazil may have finally found a solution to their number 9 struggles. (via Brasil Edition)

Transfers never sleep, and the summer window has just started. Don’t blink, the next big move might be happening right now.