There has been plenty of money spent already this summer despite the World Cup complicating business.
Naturally, the 2026 World Cup dominated headlines over the past six weeks, overshadowing all transfer business in the process.
The expanded tournament in North America lasted longer than ever before and has disrupted recruitment for clubs across the world. However, an array of high-profile deals have already been conducted in preparation for the new season.
While the transfer market will now explode into life following the conclusion of the World Cup, it’s worth glancing back at some of the important deals you might have missed during the tournament.
Leandro Trossard
Transfer: Arsenal to Beşiktaş
Fee: $22.9 million
Leandro Trossard played a significant role for Arsenal en route to last season’s Premier League title and Champions League final appearance, producing 18 goal involvements and earning Mikel Arteta’s unwavering faith down the left-hand side. However, his time in north London is now over.
An astute piece of business conducted midway through the 2022–23 season, Trossard has served his purpose and will now embark on a new chapter with Turkish behemoth Beşiktaş. Arsenal have recouped a tidy fee with his sale and can now prioritize signing a superstar left winger.
2. Illan Meslier
Transfer: Leeds United to Arsenal
Fee: Free
Illan Meslier didn’t play a minute for Leeds United last season, yet has earned quite the promotion. The 26-year-old has teamed up with the Premier League champions on a free transfer, arriving to provide backup for David Raya amid exit rumors regarding current No. 2 Kepa Arrizabalaga.