Summer 2026 Transfer Window: Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur Struggle with New Signings

Premier League Spending Continues Despite Early Struggles

This summer, Premier League clubs kept spending big during the transfer window. Yet, some of the biggest spenders like Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are seeing little payoff from their investments in the early part of the season.

Let’s break down some of the top transfers this summer and evaluate who has hit the mark and who has fallen short.

Top Transfers and Team Challenges

Manchester United started rebuilding their midfield, but the results have been disappointing so far. Youri Tielemans, brought in from Aston Villa, hasn’t met expectations. Carlos Baleba still hasn’t debuted due to an ankle injury. Meanwhile, Andrey Santos, signed from Chelsea as a future replacement for Casemiro, has struggled badly. The 22-year-old was in the starting lineup for losses against Hull City and Brighton & Hove Albion and has only played 42 minutes combined in other appearances.

United’s midfield needs to gel quickly after a slow start if they want to salvage their campaign.

Tottenham Hotspur are doing worse on the pitch. After five matches, they sit bottom with two draws and three losses. Their summer spending topped €200 million for midfielders Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, but both have yet to make an impact under manager Roberto De Zerbi. Jan Paul van Hecke also struggles defensively, raising doubts about his signing, especially after Spurs let Luka Vuskovic go.

Brighton Shines Amid Tottenham's Missteps

Brighton & Hove Albion made smart moves by bringing in Luka Vuskovic, the Croatian defender Spurs let slip away. Vuskovic, who impressed on loan at Hamburg, has been a key starter for Brighton, helping them rise to third place in the Premier League. His adaptability across different formations highlights Brighton’s sharp transfer strategy.

Brentford continues to impress with their talent scouting, too. Mamadou Sangare, signed from Lens in Ligue 1, looks promising. His energetic performances have left Tottenham's midfield chasing shadows, suggesting United might regret not pursuing him.

Other Notable Summer Signings

• James Trafford (Leeds United) - Conceded just three goals in five league games, providing solid goalkeeping.
• Jeremy Jacquet (Liverpool) - Strengthened Liverpool’s defense, which struggled last season.