Summer 2026 Premier League Transfers: Manchester United and Tottenham Falter
The 2026 summer transfer window saw Premier League clubs continue their lavish spending, but some of the biggest investors have yet to see positive returns on the pitch. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, in particular, are facing early season struggles despite significant outlays.
Manchester United's Midfield Overhaul Stumbles
Manchester United finally began their long-anticipated midfield rebuild this summer, but results have been underwhelming so far. Youri Tielemans, signed from Aston Villa, has not matched expectations, while Carlos Baleba remains sidelined with an ankle injury, delaying his debut. Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos, brought in from Chelsea as a potential long-term Casemiro replacement, has been disappointing. Santos started in defeats against Hull City and Brighton & Hove Albion and has only managed 42 minutes across other matches.
The new midfield needs to gel quickly if United want to reverse their sluggish start.
Tottenham's Big Spend Fails to Deliver
Tottenham sit at the bottom of the table after five games, with just two draws and three losses. Despite investing over €200 million on midfielders Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, both players have struggled to make an impact. Manager Roberto De Zerbi is yet to find form in the duo, who must improve dramatically in the coming months.
Defender Jan Paul van Hecke has also had difficulties adapting to top-six club demands, especially in defensive awareness. Spurs might regret trading away Luka Vuskovic to bring him in.
Brighton Shines by Capitalizing on Spurs' Mistakes
Brighton & Hove Albion turned Tottenham’s questionable choices to their advantage by signing Croatian defender Luka Vuskovic. Although Vuskovic never played a first-team game for Spurs, he impressed during a loan spell at Hamburg in the Bundesliga. Since joining Brighton this summer, the 19-year-old has become a regular starter and helped the club rise to third place.
Vuskovic’s adaptability across different systems highlights Brighton’s smart recruitment strategy, which rarely falters.
Brentford's Eye for Talent Continues
Brentford maintain their reputation for spotting players they can develop and sell profitably. New signing Mamadou Sangare, arriving from Ligue 1 side Lens, has impressed since the opening weekend. The Mali international’s energetic performance left Tottenham’s midfield chasing shadows and he has continued to shine.
Given Sangare’s form, one could argue that Manchester United missed an opportunity by passing on him this summer.
Other Notable Summer Signings Making Early Impact
- James Trafford (Leeds United): Conceded only three goals in five league matches, helping stabilize Leeds’ defense.
- Jeremy Jacquet (Liverpool): Added solidity to Liverpool’s backline after a troubled previous season.
