Manchester United spent less than newly-promoted Ipswich Town in the summer transfer window as they prepare for their return to the Champions League. The Reds' total outlay of £152m placed them at the bottom of the 'Big Six' spending table, with their fiercest rivals Manchester City leading the way at £454.2m.
Midfield Focus and Modest Spending
United reserved their biggest spending for midfielders. Carlos Baleba joined from Brighton and Hove Albion for an initial £65m, potentially rising to £70m. Andrey Santos arrived from Chelsea for £48m, potentially rising to £50m, while Youri Tielemans came in from Aston Villa for £35m.
Beyond the centre of the pitch, spending was modest. Karl Darlow arrived on a free transfer to provide cover for Senne Lammens, and United paid £4m, potentially rising to £8m, for Tottenham's young winger Tynan Thompson. Cristian Orozco arrived for an undisclosed fee, and compensation is owed to Swansea City for Kit Margetson.
Failed Late Move for Ait-Nouri
United explored a late deadline day deal for Manchester City full-back Rayan Ait-Nouri. His agent indicated he could be available, but United only wanted a season-long loan, while City insisted on an obligation to buy. The deal fell through as a result.
Rivals Outspend United
Manchester City led the Premier League spending with £454.2m, including a £125m deadline day move for Enzo Fernandez and £60m, potentially rising to £65m, for Iliman Ndiaye. Tottenham were the only other club to surpass £300m, spending £386.5m.
Liverpool spent £247.5m, largely on PSG forward Bradley Barcola, while defending champions Arsenal spent £198.5m. Aston Villa, Chelsea and Newcastle each outspent United, with £290.8m, £280.8m and £273.7m respectively.
Concerningly for United, their spending was also beaten by newly-promoted Ipswich Town, who splashed £171m on new signings as they aim to stay in the Premier League this season. United can still add players but only free agents are available. The transfer window will reopen on January 1, 2027.
