The 2024 Premier League summer transfer window was one of the most dynamic in recent history, with a host of big names switching clubs and substantial amounts of money spent as clubs prepared for the upcoming season. With the transfer deadline looming in August, Premier League teams were busy finalizing deals to strengthen their squads and address gaps from the previous season. This window saw some marquee signings, loan moves, and high-profile departures, highlighting the financial power and competitive intensity of the league.
Raheem Sterling to Arsenal (Loan)
One of the most unexpected moves of the summer was Raheem Sterling’s switch from Chelsea to Arsenal on loan. Sterling, who has long been a key player for both Manchester City and Chelsea, is known for his blistering pace, dribbling skills, and finishing ability. After joining Chelsea in 2022, Sterling had a mixed period, and with Chelsea going through a phase of transition, including the appointment of new manager Enzo Maresca, Sterling found himself on the fringes of the squad.
For Arsenal, Sterling’s arrival signals serious intent to deepen their squad. They already have so many forwards, although they have sold striker Eddie Nketiah to Crystal Palace. Mikel Arteta's side narrowly missed out on the Premier League title last season, and they have been proactive in strengthening their squad to challenge again. Sterling brings experience and versatility, being able to play across the front three. At 29, he still has plenty to offer, and his attacking presence could complement the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli. His high-profile loan to Arsenal could prove crucial in their quest for silverware.
Riccardo Calafiori to Arsenal (€45 million)
Another major addition to Arsenal's ranks this summer was the signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for €45 million. Calafiori, a 22-year-old left-back, was one of the standout performers in Serie A last season, catching the eye with his defensive solidity and ability to contribute in attack. The Italian is known for his excellent positioning, crossing ability, and composure on the ball, making him an ideal fit for Arteta's possession-based football.
The signing of Calafiori addresses a key area for Arsenal. Kieran Tierney's recurring injuries have been a concern, and the club needed depth in their defence. Calafiori’s versatility, as he can also play as a holding midfielder, adds further tactical flexibility to the Gunners which would allow Declan Rice to surge forward even more. With his youthful energy and technical abilities, Calafiori could have a long-term impact at the Emirates Stadium.
Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham (€31.8 million)
In a surprising move, Emile Smith Rowe, once seen as the future of Arsenal’s midfield, departed the Emirates to join Fulham for a club-record fee of €31.8 million. Smith Rowe’s talent is unquestionable, but injuries and the arrival of other attacking midfield options like Martin Ødegaard meant he struggled for consistent game time at Arsenal.
Fulham, under Marco Silva, have gradually built a side capable of competing for a top-half finish, and the addition of Smith Rowe highlights their ambitions. The midfielder brings creativity, technical ability, and an eye for goal to Fulham's attack. His versatility in playing across the attacking midfield positions will give Silva more options as Fulham aim to push for European football, or perhaps survive relegation more comfortably.
Douglas Luiz to Juventus (€51.5 million)
While many of the most significant transfers involved players moving within the Premier League, Douglas Luiz’s departure from Aston Villa to Juventus for €51.5 million was a notable exception. Luiz, who had been one of Villa’s standout players in midfield, departed after a stellar few seasons. His combination of defensive discipline, passing range, and an ability to contribute goals made him a vital part of Villa’s resurgence under Unai Emery.
For Aston Villa, Luiz's departure leaves a substantial gap in their midfield. However, Villa acted swiftly to replace him, signing Amadou Onana from Everton for €59.4 million. Onana, a tall, athletic midfielder with strong defensive skills, impressed at Everton despite the club’s struggles last season. His arrival ensures that Villa will have the midfield presence they need as they look to continue their upward trajectory and challenge for European places.
Dominic Solanke to Tottenham Hotspur (€64.3 million)
Dominic Solanke’'s move from Bournemouth to Tottenham Hotspur for €64.3 million was one of the biggest deals of the summer. Solanke, a former Chelsea and Liverpool player, revitalized his career at Bournemouth, where he became a reliable goal-scorer and developed into one of the most consistent strikers in the Premier League.
Tottenham, in the wake of Harry Kane’s departure to Bayern Munich in 2023, were in desperate need of a new striker, with Richarlison also very erratic in his form. Solanke’s ability to hold up the ball, link play, and find the back of the net made him an attractive option for Spurs. While he may not directly replace Kane’s goal-scoring prowess, Solanke’s all-around game could complement the attacking talents of players like Son Heung-min and Dejan Kulusevski.
Evanilson to Bournemouth (€37 million)
Following Solanke’s departure, Bournemouth moved quickly to secure the services of Brazilian striker Evanilson from Porto for €37 million. Evanilson had an impressive stint at Porto, where he demonstrated his goal-scoring ability and link-up play. His arrival is a clear statement from Bournemouth that they intend to stay competitive and build on their solid performances in the Premier League.
Evanilson’s technical ability, combined with his movement in and around the box, makes him a promising signing for the Cherries. He will be expected to fill the void left by Solanke and lead Bournemouth’s attack as they aim to secure another season of Premier League survival and perhaps push for a top-half finish.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka to West Ham United (€47.5 million)
Another significant transfer was Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s move from Manchester United to West Ham United for €47.5 million. Wan-Bissaka, a defensively solid right-back, fell down the pecking order at Manchester United as Erik ten Hag favored Diogo Dalot. Wan-Bissaka’s defensive prowess, particularly his one-on-one tackling ability, makes him a valuable addition to West Ham’s defense.
West Ham, who experienced defensive issues last season, have added a player capable of providing stability on the right flank. David Moyes’ replacement, Julen Lopetegui will hope that Wan-Bissaka can rediscover the form that made him one of the Premier League’s most highly-rated right-backs when he first joined Manchester United.
Amadou Onana to Aston Villa (€59.4 million)
Following the sale of Douglas Luiz to Juventus, Aston Villa made a statement by signing Amadou Onana from Everton for €59.4 million. Onana, who had a strong individual campaign despite Everton's relegation battle, brings physicality and defensive solidity to the midfield. His aerial presence and ball-winning abilities make him an ideal fit for Unai Emery’s system at Villa.
Villa have been steadily building a squad capable of challenging for European places, and Onana’s signing is a key part of that project. His arrival, alongside other key signings, suggests that Villa are aiming to compete for a top-four finish this season.
The 2024 Premier League summer transfer window was marked by several high-profile moves, both within the league and abroad. Arsenal, Tottenham, and Aston Villa were among the biggest spenders, signaling their intent to compete at the top of the table. Meanwhile, Fulham and West Ham also made significant additions to bolster their squads for the coming season. The Premier League's financial power and global appeal continue to attract top talent, ensuring that the league remains one of the most exciting and competitive football competitions in the world.
