Global Transfers in 2024 Break Records and Budgets

The global transfer market reached new heights in 2024, with a record 78 742 international moves across men’s, women’s and amateur divisions, according to FIFA’s latest Global Transfer Report released yesterday, Thursday 30 January.

In men’s professional football, 22 779 transfers took place, with clubs spending $8.59 billion — the second-highest total ever, following 2023’s record $9.63 billion. English clubs topped both the spending and earnings charts at $1.88 billion and $1.34 billion, respectively.

The biggest transfer saw Julian Alvarez move from Manchester City to Atletico Madrid for $78.26 million, plus add-ons.

Women’s football saw unprecedented investment, with $15.6 million spent — more than double 2023’s figure. The biggest deal was Naomi Girma’s $1.12 million move to Chelsea, making her the first million-dollar female player.

The amateur game also boomed, with a record-making 53 679 transfers, up 4.3% from 2023.

FIFA’s interactive report offers deeper insights into football’s growing transfer market, highlighting the financial power of clubs and the rise of women’s football. With new records being set, 2024 reinforced the beautiful game’s status as the world’s most lucrative sport.

A January 2025 transfer period report will be published in early February.

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