Summer 2026 Transfer Window: Manchester United and Tottenham Stumble While Brighton and Brentford Shine

2026 Summer Transfers: Premier League Spending Continues

The Premier League clubs showed no sign of slowing their spending spree this summer, splashing significant sums during the transfer window. Still, some of the biggest spenders might be worried as their investments have yet to pay off on the pitch.

Top Signings and Early Season Impact

Let's review the standout transfers and assess which clubs are benefiting and which are struggling.

Manchester United’s Midfield Overhaul Falls Short

Manchester United finally began their much-anticipated midfield rebuild. Unfortunately, the new arrivals have not impressed early on. Youri Tielemans, who arrived from Aston Villa, has failed to meet expectations. Carlos Baleba has not made a single appearance due to an ankle injury.

Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos joined from Chelsea, expected to fill Casemiro's shoes, but his performances have been disappointing. The 22-year-old started in losses against Hull City and Brighton & Hove Albion and only managed 42 minutes combined in other matches.

The midfield trio needs to find form quickly if United want to turn around their sluggish start to the season.

Tottenham Hotspur Struggle Despite Big Spending

Tottenham Hotspur are in an even worse position, sitting at the bottom after five games with two draws and three defeats. They spent over €200 million on midfielders Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, both expected to push Spurs into the top four.

Manager Roberto De Zerbi has yet to get the best out of these signings. Their performances must improve rapidly. Jan Paul van Hecke, another signing, has also struggled, particularly in defensive awareness. Spurs might regret trading Luka Vuskovic to acquire him.

Brighton Capitalize on Tottenham’s Mistakes

Brighton & Hove Albion took advantage of Tottenham’s questionable decisions by signing Croatian defender Luka Vuskovic, who never played for Spurs’ first team but impressed during a loan spell at Hamburg.

The 19-year-old has become a regular starter, helping Brighton reach third place in the Premier League. His adaptability across different systems highlights Brighton’s smart recruitment strategy.

Brentford’s Keen Eye for Talent

Brentford continue to excel at spotting promising players they can develop and later sell for profit. Mamadou Sangare, who moved from Lens this summer, is the latest talent showing promise.

Sangare’s energetic display in the opening match left Tottenham’s revamped midfield chasing shadows, and his strong form has continued.

Given Sangare’s impact, one could argue that Manchester United missed an opportunity by overlooking him.

Other Promising New Arrivals

• James Trafford (Leeds United): Has conceded only three goals in five league games.
• Jeremy Jacquet (Liverpool): Provided much-needed stability to Liverpool's defense after last season's struggles.