Clubs Set Record $2.35 Billion in January Transfers – FIFA

• Worldwide clubs spent a record $2.35 billion on international transfers in January, a 58% increase from last year, with 5,863 transfers completed
• English clubs led in spending at $621.6 million, while Jhon Duran’s move to Al-Nassr was the most expensive; women’s transfers also hit a record $5.8 million

Football clubs worldwide spent a record-breaking $2.35 billion on international transfers during the January transfer window, marking a nearly 58% increase from last year, according to FIFA’s International Transfer Snapshot published on Friday.

The amount surpasses the previous record of $1.57 billion set in January 2023, representing a 47.1% rise. Between January 1 and February 4, a total of 5,863 international transfers were completed, reflecting a 19.1% increase from last year’s record.

English clubs topped the spending chart, investing $621.6 million in international transfer fees. Premier League champions Manchester City alone spent over $224 million on signings, including Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, and Juma Bah.

The most expensive transfer in January was Colombian forward Jhon Duran, who moved from Aston Villa to Saudi club Al-Nassr for approximately €77 million ($79.97 million), including add-ons.

Germany ranked second in spending at $295.7 million, followed by Italy ($223.8 million), France ($209.7 million), and Saudi Arabia ($202.1 million). Meanwhile, clubs in France earned the highest transfer fees, receiving $371 million, followed by Germany ($226.2 million), England ($185.2 million), Portugal ($176.4 million), and Italy ($162 million).

Brazil recorded the highest number of incoming international transfers (471), while Argentina led in outgoing transfers, with 255 players moving abroad.

Women’s football also experienced a historic rise in transfer spending, reaching $5.8 million—an astonishing 180.6% increase from the previous record.

A total of 455 international transfers were recorded, with English clubs leading the way, spending $2.3 million and making 39 international signings.

This record-breaking transfer window underscores the growing financial power of football clubs globally, with English teams continuing to dominate the market.