Summer transfer window 2026: Manchester United & Tottenham Hotspur fluff their lines

The Premier League transfer window 2026 continued its tradition of extravagant spending as clubs continued to make big moves. However, some of the biggest signings have failed to deliver the expected results early in the season. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are two clubs that have had underwhelming starts to their campaigns.

Manchester United, in particular, was focused on rebuilding their midfield after a disappointing start to the previous season. However, their new signings, such as Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba, have struggled to live up to expectations. Tielemans, in particular, has been woeful, starting in defeats against Hull City and Brighton & Hove Albion and being restricted to just 42 minutes in his other appearances combined.

Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur, despite spending over €200 million on midfielders Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, are currently bottom of the table after five games. Their manager, Roberto De Zerbi, has yet to get the desired performance out of the duo, and they may ultimately regret sacrificing Luka Vuskovic to sign them. Vuskovic, on the other hand, has adapted well to the demands of a 'Big Six' club and has helped Brighton climb to third in the Premier League.

Brighton and Brentford are two clubs that have been successful in identifying and signing talented players this summer. Brighton's new defensive signing, Luka Vuskovic, has been a revelation, while Brentford's acquisition of Mali international Mamadou Sangare has also shown promise. Sangare's all-action display on the opening weekend left Tottenham's new-look midfield chasing shadows.

Other summer signings, such as James Trafford from Leeds United and Jeremy Jacquet from Liverpool, have also made a strong start with their respective clubs. Trafford has conceded just three goals in five league games, while Jacquet has added stability to a Liverpool defence that faltered last season.