Ligue 1 Summer Transfer Window: Spending and Surprises Revealed

The summer transfer window closed just a week ago, prompting clubs in Ligue 1 to assess their strategies and expenditures. In a season marked by a crisis in broadcasting rights, clubs like PSG, OM, and OL have made significant investments, often offset by notable player sales. Based on data from Transfermarkt, we delve into a unique summer transfer saga that unfolded in French football.

The impact of the TV rights crisis

The ongoing crisis regarding television rights has undeniably influenced the start of the summer transfer market for Ligue 1 clubs. Despite the challenges, major teams like OM managed to navigate the storm through lucrative sales and financial support from CVC. However, it is once again PSG that stands out as the top spender in France.

PSG leads the spending race

Unsurprisingly, PSG tops the list of clubs with the highest expenditures. While there were expectations for more transfers, the Parisian club secured deals for players such as Willian Pacho, Joao Neves, Matvey Safonov, and Désiré Doué, amassing a total of €169 million. Close behind, OL reached €147 million in spending, despite scrutiny from the DNCG. OM rounds out the top three, having spent €85 million on various signings throughout the summer.

On the other hand, ASSE has made headlines with a historic summer, investing €22 million, including a record €10 million for Lucas Stassin, the most expensive player in the club’s history.

Positive balances for most clubs

Remarkably, eleven out of the eighteen clubs concluded the summer transfer window with a positive balance. Leading the charge is Stade Rennais, boasting a surplus of €57 million, despite being the fourth highest spenders in Ligue 1 this summer. In contrast, OL finished with the worst financial outcome, experiencing a negative balance estimated at -€109 million.

Stade Rennais also stands out as the only club to surpass €100 million in player sales, achieving €135 million, outpacing OM with €81 million. Meanwhile, Montpellier had the least activity, making one acquisition compared to three departures.