Football's 2024 close-season transfer window broke this major record
What's the story
According to a FIFA report, the 2024 close-season transfer window has set a new global record with an unprecedented 11,000 international transfers.
This figure marks a significant increase of 4.8% compared to the previous year.
Despite this rise in player movements, clubs spent nearly $6.40 billion on transfer fees, making it the second-highest amount ever recorded.
However, there is still a decline of 13.06% from last year's expenditure.
Market leaders
European clubs dominate transfer market
European clubs, particularly those from England, were the most active in the transfer market during this period.
English clubs shelled out over $1.6 billion on transfer fees in the mid-year window.
However, this figure represents a decrease of 15.5% from last year's expenditure of $2 billion, indicating a careful approach owing to potential sanctions for non-compliance with Premier League's profit and sustainability rules (PSR).
Spending reduction
Saudi Arabian clubs cut spending by over 50%
Top Saudi Arabia clubs have also significantly reduced their spending by a whopping 50.74% (from $875 million last year to $431 million this term).
This reduction comes before the transfer registrations closure of Saudi league in October.
Despite these cuts, England continues to lead the transfers tally, with 526 players joining its clubs, followed by Brazil and Portugal.
Women's surge
Women's football sees over 100% increase in transfer spending
In a positive development for women's professional football, international transfer fees in the mid-year window reached $6.8 million.
This figure doubled from the previous year, indicating a growing interest in women's football.
The surge underscores the increasing recognition and financial support for female athletes in this globally popular sport.