It was a huge summer, full of surprises and unexpected transfers, great signings but also low cost opportunities.
This is my list of the top 5 favourite European transfers this summer, including top clubs, top names but also an unexpected move that can turn out to be brilliant.
1) Jude Bellingham to Real Madrid
The best signing of the year so far. It still seems strange to think that Jude Bellingham is 20 years old, his impact in La Liga has been impressive.
An absolute star with still enormous potential, paying €103m plus add-ons for Bellingham was a Real Madrid masterpiece... also because all the top clubs in Europe wanted to sign him.
A difficult race for sure but turned into a great deal.
2) Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona
One of the least celebrated negotiations in the media this summer... probably because it happened for a free agent, but I consider Ilkay Gundogan to be one of the most underrated players in the world in the last 10 years.
Quality, technique, leadership... and Barça managed to win the competition from many clubs to sign Ilkay. Excellent addition. When the big games arrive, his impact will make the difference.
3) Declan Rice to Arsenal
The battle with Manchester City was tough but Arsenal have secured a top player for present and future. Declan Rice is not just a midfielder, he's the midfield.
When he gets into the workings of Arteta you will see the total importance of excellent signing.
Credits to Arsenal because the investment has been huge but Rice is worth all the money that has been spent, he really has the potential to make history for the club.
4) Dominik Szoboszlai to Liverpool
Another underrated signing because the negotiation was very quick with RB Leipzig, after 3 days of discussions Liverpool decided to pay the €70m release clause for Dominik Szoboszlai.
But Dominik is a modern midfielder of excellent level: he can provide assists, score goals, make the difference in the long term and be worth over €100m in the future.
I think signing Mac Allister and Szoboszlai for €110m total package was a true masterpiece from Liverpool.
5) Tijani Rejinders to AC Milan
Alongside Mohammed Kudus to West Ham, one of the underdogs of the transfer window that we will remember for a long time.
AC Milan invested a fee in excess of €20m for Tijani Reijnders from PSV but this midfielder looks like something special.
Insane quality, smart player, replacing Tonali was difficult but Milan did an excellent job. With hard work and experience in Italy, Reijnders can become a top player in the coming years.
