This analysis by Carlo Laudisa delves into the complex relationship between the Premier League and Serie A, exploring the successes and failures of their latest transfer dealings. From major acquisitions by Napoli and Milan to the disappointments at Juventus and the ambitious moves of newly-promoted Cremonese, the article provides a comprehensive overview.
Rasmus Hojlund celebrating with Napoli`s head coach Antonio Conte after scoring in a Serie A match.
A Unique Symbiosis Between Leagues
Despite their differences, the latest transfer window once again highlighted a peculiar symbiosis between the Premier League and Serie A. The world`s wealthiest league continued to scout top talent from Italy, with Milan`s Reijnders moving to City and the promising Leoni joining Liverpool. However, many players also made the reverse journey to Italy, and not merely as discards.
The Strategic Deals for Hojlund and Nkunku
Napoli`s acquisition of Danish forward Hojlund stands as their most expensive operation, a €46 million investment. Similarly, AC Milan spent €37 million to bring Christopher Nkunku from Chelsea. Both deals share an interesting parallel: Hojlund was bought by Manchester United two summers ago for €77 million, while Chelsea paid €60 million to RB Leipzig for the French international in 2023. Effectively, the two English clubs managed to retain the book value of these players without incurring capital losses. This demonstrates the Premier League`s ability to secure excellent financial terms, just as Italian clubs managed to sign two talents capable of elevating their squads. The era of English clubs recklessly spending without a real safety net, when opportunities for Italian teams were limited, seems to be over.
Christopher Nkunku in action for AC Milan during a Serie A match.
Successes and Setbacks from the Premier League
In recent years, this import/export dynamic has benefited both sides. Napoli, in particular, hit the mark with McTominay and Anguissa, and now eagerly anticipates the talent of De Bruyne, who arrived on a free transfer. Milan has also long charted a clear path for its reinforcements; Nkunku`s signing was preceded by those of Tomori, Pulisic, and Loftus-Cheek, all of whom have been key players for the Rossoneri. Juventus, however, has not fared as well, reeling from a truly disappointing British transfer campaign. Lloyd Kelly, the defender acquired from Bournemouth last January for €21 million, remains with the club. Conversely, Brazilian Douglas Luiz returned to his parent club after a loan spell with Nottingham Forest, a deal structured to recover part of the €50 million paid to Aston Villa a year ago. This economic and technical failure significantly impacted the transfer dealings under the new Comolli era. It`s no coincidence, then, that Juventus opted to prioritize French acquisitions this summer.
An illustration representing the complexities and challenges of the transfer market for clubs like Juventus.
Valuable Acquisitions Across Serie A
Amidst these movements, Inter also made a significant signing, bringing Swiss defender Akanji from Manchester City with excellent credentials. While the transfer fee was substantial, it was clearly deemed worthwhile. A unique case is that of Irish forward Ferguson, who arrived at Roma from Brighton after a subdued season. What initially seemed like a peripheral operation quickly turned into a success story under Gasperini, who immediately promoted the striker, initially on loan. All signs point to him becoming a key player.
Cremonese`s Ambitious Dreams
Newly-promoted Cremonese also actively participated in this Anglo-Italian transfer activity. Winger Jeremy Sarmiento arrived from Brighton, showing promising early signs. This loan deal for the Ecuadorian international clearly holds significant potential. However, all eyes are on Jamie Vardy. The 38-year-old star from Ranieri`s Leicester aims to prove his top-tier ability in Serie A. This would be a legendary gamble, considering that history has rarely favored British strikers in the Italian league. This season, therefore, charts new territory, offering a chance to see if the dynamics of major transfer businesses between London and Italy can truly change.
