Transfer deals you might have missed this week, from the latest Chelsea signee to a former Milan academy graduate

Despite all eyes on Germany and the United States, where two major continental tournaments (Euro 2024 and the 2024 Copa América) are concluding, it doesn’t mean that clubs haven’t started preparing for the new season.

The summer transfer window has opened across Europe’s major leagues, and business is picking up. So far, there hasn’t been a major big-money move, with the only blockbuster announcement being Kylian Mbappé leaving Paris Saint-Germain for Real Madrid on a free transfer. However, that should change as we go deeper into the window.

What has occurred is that temporary stays have become permanent, and contract renewals have occurred. But for every big story, some moves go unnoticed. Here are some examples from this week alone.

Iliman Ndiaye

Everton struggled in front of goal last season. Despite staving off relegation, only the relegated duo Burnley (41) and Sheffield United (35) had a poorer goalscoring record than Sean Dyche’s side (40). A stingy defence benefited their survival: Everton had the league’s fourth-best record, having conceded 51 goals. Dyche, however, isn’t taking any chances and has restructured his attack. Former Sheffield United attacking midfielder Iliman Ndiaye has joined from Marseille, where he spent one season and scored three goals in 30 league appearances.

Ismaël Koné

With Roberto De Zerbi installed as manager, better days are hoped for Marseille, who finished eighth in Ligue 1 last season. Having no European football next term could be a blessing, as it will give the Italian even more time on the practice fields. Regarding new additions, Ismaël Koné is a second signing, with the Canadian midfielder relocating from Watford after one season with the Championship side.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

It’s been well-documented how much Chelsea’s current ownership has spent on transfers since taking over. Anyone thinking Todd Boehly and company will slow down is forgiven. So far, several promising talents have joined the Stamford Bridge-based club — Omari Kellyman (Aston Villa), Tosin Adarabioyo (Fulham), and Marc Guiu (Barcelona) — with Leicester City midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall being the latest. Dewsbury-Hall had helped Leicester achieve promotion to the Premier League and will continue working under Enzo Maresca, the recently appointed Blues head coach, who led the Foxes back to the top flight.

Jørgen Strand Larsen

In recent years, Wolves have showcased an impressive collection of centre-forwards, with Jørgen Strand Larsen hoping to be the latest addition. Having spent time in AC Milan’s youth setup, the Norwegian international broke through at Groningen before Celta Vigo became his home. The 24-year-old arrived and finalized a loan move that will automatically become permanent until 2029, should specific clauses be triggered.

Archie Gray

No one was more emotional than Archie Gray when Leeds fell at the final hurdle and missed out on Premier League promotion, defeated by Southampton in the Wembley play-off final. A third-generation footballer, with LUFC blood coursing down his veins, he will play in England’s top division with Tottenham, where many hope the versatile defender-cum-midfielder fulfils his potential. His transfer wasn’t the only one between the clubs as Joe Rodon, who had spent last season on loan at Elland Road, made his switch permanent.