FIFA has revealed that international soccer clubs spent a staggering $8.59 billion on international transfers in 2024, marking the second-highest figure in history, just behind 2023's record-breaking $9.63 billion.
The Global Transfer Report highlighted a record 22,779 international transfers in men's soccer, with English clubs leading the spending spree.
Paris Saint-Germain emerged as the top European spender, while Julian Alvarez’s transfer from Manchester City to Atletico Madrid was the most expensive deal, valued at approximately $78.26 million plus add-ons.
The surge in spending reflects the growing financial muscle of top clubs, with FIFA’s Chief Legal and Compliance Officer Emilio García Silvero stating, “The financial strength of clubs, particularly in Europe, continues to shape the global transfer market.”
Women's soccer also saw significant growth, with a record $15.6 million spent on international transfers.
Chelsea and Bay FC were the biggest spenders, with Chelsea's acquisition of Naomi Girma becoming the first million-dollar transfer in women's soccer history.
FIFA's Director of Football Regulatory James Kitching noted, “The increasing investments in women’s football are a clear sign of the sport’s global rise.”
The report revealed a 4.3% increase in amateur soccer transfers, further showcasing the sport’s expanding international reach.
Speaking on the future of transfers, FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated, “We continue to see record-breaking numbers, and we expect even greater movement as clubs invest more in top talent worldwide.”
With clubs spending at an unprecedented rate, the global transfer market remains a key driver in the evolving landscape of football.
Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk has confirmed that talks regarding a new contract have started but admitted he’s uncertain whether he’ll still be at Anfield next season.
The future of several key players remains unclear, with Van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Mohamed Salah all out of contract at the end of the current campaign.
At 33, Van Dijk acknowledged that negotiations are ongoing but didn’t offer a clear indication about his long-term plans with the club.
"I can say obviously discussions are ongoing, but I don't know, we will see what happens in the future," he stated.
"My very full focus is on Liverpool, wanting to win games that are ahead of me and nothing else. What the future will bring I have no idea at the moment. I can only tell you that discussions have been started up and we will see.
"I feel very good, physically, mentally and I am having fun. Discussions are ongoing with the right people and when it's time to make a decision or whatever, I think you guys [the media] will know it as well.
"But now full commitment and focus is on Liverpool and to be successful this season. So we will see.
"Similar concerns have been raised about Alexander-Arnold, following rumors of interest from Real Madrid. Addressing the speculation, coach Slot assured the media that such distractions won’t affect the players' performance.
"I think you underestimate our players. These players are used to being linked with all the top clubs on a daily basis, if they have contracts or not," he commented during Friday’s press conference.
"If you think they're disturbed by this interest then you don't do justice to how strong they are mentally. This is part of our job. This is part of this world we are living in. You just focus on what you have to do.
"Maybe if you're 17 or 18 years of age it could be difficult for you. But Trent has won the league, has won the Champions League; Virgil and Mo the same. I don't think that is a problem for them to perform and that's what we see at the moment because they're playing really well."
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