FIFA Report: International Transfer Spending Hits All-Time High

FIFA reveals $9.76 billion spent

FIFA's latest report reveals record-breaking international transfer spending of $9.76 billion. Learn more about the trends and numbers behind the transfer market.

In addition to the men's football transfers, women's soccer also broke records with over 1,100 international transfers...

FIFA's latest report reveals that international transfer spending has reached a record high of $9.76 billion, with clubs worldwide recording nearly 12,000 international transfers. This staggering amount represents a significant increase of over 50% compared to the same period in 2024.

The Premier League was once again at the forefront of transfer spending, with English clubs disbursing over $3 billion in transfer fees in the last three months. Notably, German clubs received $893 million from their English counterparts, highlighted by Florian Wirtz's move from Bayer Leverkusen to Liverpool in a deal reportedly worth $156.70 million.

Key Transfer Spending Statistics:

• Total Spending: $9.76 billion
• Number of Transfers: Nearly 12,000
• Increase from 2024: Over 50%
• Top Spending League: Premier League (over $3 billion)
• Top Recipient Country: Germany ($980 million)

In addition to the men's football transfers, women's soccer also broke records with over 1,100 international transfers and fees exceeding $12 million. Orlando Pride's signing of winger Lizbeth Ovalle from Liga MX club side Tigres Femenil for $1.5 million set a new benchmark for women's football transfers.

Global transfer market hits new all-time highs in 2025 mid-year window

Men’s football spending reaches USD 9.76 billion, a new all-time high (an increase of more than 50% v. mid-2024)

Women’s football transfer fees climb to USD 12.3 million, also the highest ever (an increase… pic.twitter.com/NdpC6hZNDO

— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) September 3, 2025

Women's football has seen a significant surge in international transfers, with over 1,100 players changing teams and transfer fees exceeding $12 million. A notable example is Orlando Pride's signing of Mexican winger Lizbeth Ovalle from Tigres Femenil for $1.5 million, making her the most expensive transfer in women's football history.

FIFA's Chief Legal & Compliance Officer, Emilio Garcia Silvero, commented on the trend, saying, “We have observed a transfer market in full swing both in men's and women's football.” This statement highlights the growing investment and interest in women's football, reflecting the sport's increasing popularity and development.

“While this is a relevant development in men's football a year ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, the increasing figures in women's football transfers are equally remarkable as they confirm the exponential growth of the women's game at club level.”

The Premier League dominated the transfer market, with English clubs spending over $3 billion in transfer fees in just three months. A significant portion of this spending went to German clubs, which received $893 million. Notably, Liverpool's signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen was a major deal, reportedly worth £116 million ($156.70 million) plus add-ons. This high-profile transfer highlights the Premier League's financial muscle and its ability to attract top talent from around the world.

Liverpool strengthened its lineup with the signing of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, while Newcastle United broke their club record with the acquisition of German forward Nick Woltemade from VfB Stuttgart. Both deals were reportedly worth £69 million. 

Liverpool recently finalized Alexander Isak's transfer from Newcastle United for a British record fee of £130 million, surpassing their previous record of Florian Wirtz's move from Bayer Leverkusen in a deal reportedly worth $156.70. This deal makes Isak the most expensive signing in British football history. The transfer was a long-debated saga, with Liverpool initially offering £110 million, which Newcastle rejected. However, after persistent negotiations, the Reds eventually agreed on the £130 million deal.

Key Details of the Transfer:

• Transfer Fee: £130 million, with £125 million going directly to Newcastle
• Contract Duration: Six years
• Player's Previous Club: Newcastle United
• Previous Transfer Fee: Newcastle signed Isak from Real Sociedad for £60 million in 2022

Isak's arrival at Liverpool marks a significant addition to their squad, bolstering their attacking lineup. He will wear the number 9 shirt and is expected to make his debut after the international break, potentially against Burnley on September 14, 2025.

Germany secured the second spot in total spending, with $980 million invested in transfers. Italy followed closely, ranking third with $950 million in transfer spending.

In terms of incoming transfers, England led the way with 535 players joining its clubs. Portugal and Brazil rounded out the top three, with 479 and 425 incoming players, respectively.