Predictions for the Biggest Transfers in the Summer Season

The summer may be relatively quiet when it comes to football action, but in place of on-field drama, we get speculation, rumor and big money deals.

Every summer, there is at least one huge transfer that gets the entire football world talking. Some transfers, such as Kylian Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid last year and the sale of Jude Bellingham to the same club in 2023, can end up being so significant that they can shift the football odds in major markets such as La Liga and Champions League winner.

As the action on the pitch reaches a climax, some football fans are already looking ahead to the summer’s transfer action. So, what major deals can we expect before the 2025/26 season kicks off?

Liverpool’s Colombian winger Luis Diaz is one of the most sought-after talents in world football, after his key role in helping Liverpool win the Premier League, but Barcelona is the name that is mentioned most consistently in securing his services.

Much of that speculation may be due to the fact that Barcelona’s Sporting Director Deco is a big fan of Diaz and is reportedly in contact with Diaz’s inner circle. Diaz also seems to fit the Barcelona mold, with his flair, technical gifts and explosive pace.

While the move has a lot to recommend it, there are some obstacles, the biggest of which could be Barcelona’s ongoing financial problems. Their priority this summer is in signing up key players including Jules Kounde, and it would take a major outgoing transfer to make this move feasible this summer. On the plus side, Diaz’s reluctance to sign a contract renewal at Anfield means that there is a window of opportunity for potential suitors.

One of the hottest talents in La Liga, Martin Zubimendi has been extremely impressive in his midfield anchor role for Real Sociedad, and both Liverpool and Arsenal have expressed interest in bringing the 26-year-old to the Premier League.

Both clubs are looking for replacements for key midfielders. Arsenal are searching for a long-term Jorghino replacement, while Liverpool tried to sign him last summer. There have also been reports that Real Madrid could yet be interested.

With La Real unable to offer Champions League football, the lure of a big move to England may prove too strong. Of the two, Arsenal appears to be the keenest on signing Zubimendi, but wherever he ends up, the departure of yet another top midfielder in his prime will leave La Liga weaker.

Atletico Madrid’s Pablo Barrios has quietly become one of the most exciting midfielders in Spanish football, and the 21-year-olds tactical intelligence and versatility have not gone unnoticed in the boardrooms of Europe’s biggest clubs. Another Premier League team, Chelsea, are reported to be ready to make an offer, but Bayern Munich are also said to be interested.

The situation leaves Atletico facing a tough decision. Barrios represents the future, and could become a key figure for Diego Simeone, forming the core of their midfield for many seasons to come. On the other hand, if he were to be sold for a big fee, that money could be used to refresh other parts of the squad. Barrios has given no indication of wanting to leave, but a summer exit remains possible if either Chelsea or Bayern can come up with the right price.

La Masia graduate Alejandro Grimaldo has developed rapidly at Bayer Leverkusen under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, after leaving Barcelona in search of regular first team football. After impressive spells in both Portugal and Germany, he is rated as one of the world’s top full-backs.

Reports had suggested that Barcelona are planning a move to bring him back to Catalonia, and such a move would make sense. That was some time ago though, and now it appears Atletico Madrid or Real Madrid could be the most likely move.

These are some of the most likely moves to look out for this summer, but if there’s one thing we’ve learned from previous transfer windows, it’s that so much of what takes place is unpredictable. Every year, there is at least one big move that catches everyone out. So, who will it be this summer?