Record-Breaking International Transfers in Men's and Women's Soccer

The January transfer window saw a record 5,973 international deals in men's soccer, a slight increase from last year. Despite a higher count, spending dropped 18% to $1.95 billion. In women's soccer, spending rose 85%, reaching over $10 million, though transfer numbers decreased by 6%.

In a banner year for international transfers, FIFA reported a record 5,973 deals during January for men's soccer, reflecting a 3% rise from the previous year. Despite the increased activity, total spending decreased by 18% to $1.95 billion, though it remains 20% higher than the records set in January 2023.

Women's soccer also experienced significant growth in spending, surpassing $10 million in transfer fees—an impressive 85% increase from the prior record—despite a 6% reduction in the number of transfers, totaling 420 international deals. Domestic transfers within the same country were not covered by this report.

Leading the spending chart were English clubs, disbursing $363 million, though recouping only $150 million through player sales abroad. Other top spenders included Italy, Brazil, Germany, and France, with French clubs earning significant returns from sales, netting $218 million. In contrast, U.S. clubs spent $99 million but recouped only $48 million.

(With inputs from agencies.)