La Liga season start: Transfer market in the summer of 2025/26

The 2025/26 La Liga transfer window is still wide open, meaning the squads you see here could look completely different when the doors slam shut. Still, we're getting our first honest look at how clubs are building for the season - what holes they're plugging, what key players are leaving, and what chances they're taking on new blood.

This overview collects the arrivals and departures for all of the league's clubs, so you can both enjoy the summer's rumours and signings now, and use it as a reference later in the season. When placing bets, it can be valuable to know what kind of starting base the teams actually had, which profiles were replaced - and which were not.

So sit back, browse through the transfers, and familiarize yourself with the state of the squads. Because in La Liga, one good or bad transfer can be the difference between a medal and relegation.

Athletic Club

Atletico Madrid

Atlético Madrid enter the season as one of the favourites to challenge for the La Liga title and with a clear aim of claiming the Champions League. The club has spent large sums of money to strengthen the team, bringing in 14 players, including the likes of Álex Baena (€42m from Villarreal), Dávid Hancko (€26m from Feyenoord) and Johnny Cardoso (€24m from Real Betis). Offensively, Giacomo Raspadori (€22m) and Thiago Almada (€21m) have come in to provide the team with more creative solutions, while the goalkeeping position has been strengthened with Juan Musso (€3m from Atalanta).

The transfer window has also seen several established names leave the club. Samuel Lino (€22m to Flamengo) and Arthur Vermeeren (€20m to RB Leipzig) are the most lucrative sales, while Rodrigo Riquelme (€8m to Real Betis) and Ángel Correa (€8m to Tigres) have also contributed to a total of €68m. Seasoned players such as Axel Witsel, Saúl Ñíguez and César Azpilicueta have left the club on free transfers.

Atlético have retained a solid core, while Diego Simeone now has a broader squad with more technical and creative profiles than before. The reinforcements give the team the flexibility to vary between direct counter-attacking play and more possession-based football, which can be crucial in matches against teams ranked lower.

With the combination of experience, quality and depth, Atlético looks well-equipped for both the league and the Champions League. The key will be to keep key players injury-free and avoid the point losses to bottom teams that cost them dearly last season.

Barcelona

Barcelona enters a new season with a clear goal of regaining its position as one of Europe's most feared clubs. After a previous season marked by unevenness and periods of disappointing results, the sports management has chosen a transfer window with few, but strategic moves.

The most expensive signing is Javi García from city rivals Espanyol for €25 million – a young goalkeeper who should be a long-term solution and strengthen the defensive structure. In addition, the club has brought in Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United, an attacking force with both speed and width in his game. Rashford gives the team an extra weapon in the transition game and can help solve the challenge of breaking down low-lying opponents. Roony Bardghji, signed from FC Copenhagen, adds youthful energy and technical finesse – and many believe he could become a key player in the long term if he is given confidence.

The outgoing side shows a Barcelona that has cleaned up both its squad and its wage bill. Pablo Víctor has been sold to SC Braga for €12 million, Álex Valle to Como for €6 million and Pablo Torre to Mallorca for €5 million. Iñigo Martínez has left for Al-Nassr on a free transfer, while Ansu Fati is seeking permanent playing time at Monaco on loan. This clean-up makes room for the new signings, while also reducing financial pressure.

With a net outlay of a modest €2 million, the transfer window appears to be financially controlled, but with a clear focus on quality over quantity. Nevertheless, much of the optimism rests on Rashford quickly finding top form, García establishing himself as a safe last resort, and Bardghji stepping up to a level that matches the club's ambitions.

Barcelona are fielding a team that on paper looks stronger than last year, but the challenges are clear. In a season with both La Liga and the Champions League on the agenda, the margins will be small. The transfer window offers hope for a boost – but also questions about whether the depth is sufficient as the games approach in the spring.

Celta Vigo

Celta Vigo have had a transfer window marked by big sales and a clear rebuilding of the squad. The sales of Jørgen Strand Larsen to Wolverhampton for a whopping 27 million euros and Fer López to the same club for 23 million euros have given the club a solid financial boost, but it has also opened up big holes in the attack. Several other players have also left the club, including Miguel Rodríguez to Utrecht and Agustín González to Sevilla on a free transfer. Veterans such as Vicente Guaita, Jailson and Javier Manquillo are now without a club, while several players have gone on loan to other Spanish clubs and abroad.

On the attacking side, the club has brought in a number of names, but with a clear emphasis on width and rotation. Ilaix Moriba has been brought back from RB Leipzig for 6 million euros, while Ferran Jutglà (from Club Brugge) and Borja Iglesias (from Real Betis) will contribute goals and experience in attack. Width has also been strengthened with the loan of Bryan Zaragoza from Bayern Munich and Ionuț Radu from Venice. The club has also brought back several players from loans, such as Unai Núñez, Joseph Aidoo and Carles Pérez, but it is uncertain how central they will be in the plans of the coaching staff, as some have already moved on to new loans.

Even with a host of incoming players, Celta have seen a net transfer income of over €37m, giving them some breathing room but also putting pressure on the club's management to show they can replace key players lost. The attacking structure needs to be rebuilt, and it will be exciting to see whether the combination of new signings and loan players returning can provide enough quality to keep the team out of the relegation zone. Experience from the veterans could be crucial in balancing out an otherwise fairly young squad.

Deportivo Alaves

Deportivo Alavés have had an active transfer window with several key changes to the squad. On the attacking side, two transfers in particular stand out: Yago Enríquez has been brought in from Real Madrid Castilla for 3 million euros, and midfielder Carles Aleñá joins from Getafe for 1 million euros. In addition, the club has secured experienced defender Rubén Fernández from Mirandés on a free transfer, as well as José Ángel Otto from PAOK and Pablo Ibáñez from Osasuna, both on free transfers. Brazilian loanee Calebe from Fortaleza could also add a new dimension to the midfield.

On the away side, Alavés have made big sales. Striker Julián Panichelli has been sold to Strasbourg for a whopping €16.5 million, while centre-back Samu Mouriño has gone to Atlético Madrid for €4 million. In addition, Tomás Conechny has gone to Racing Club for €3 million, and several established names have left the club for free, including Kike García (Espanyol) and Aleksandar Sedlar (Tractor). Defender Abdel Abqar has gone to Getafe, while several players have been sent on loan, including Unai Ropero to Hércules and Asier Villalibre to Racing Santander.

Alavés have thus combined strategic renewal with solid revenues. With a net surplus of around 19.5 million euros and several experienced signings without a transfer fee, the club appears to have prioritized financial sustainability while strengthening key positions.

Elche

Elche have had a transfer window marked by major changes in their squad. The club have brought in a number of young players, such as midfielder Federico Redondo from Inter Miami and Ángel Rodríguez from Real Madrid. They have also secured defenders such as Miguel Neto from Benfica and Léo Pétrot from Saint-Étienne, as well as Victor Chust on loan from Cádiz. In attack, they have brought in Gabriel Valera from Valencia and Iturbe from Atlético Madrileño, while several players have returned from loan spells.

On the outgoing side, Elche have sold two key players for significant sums: Nicolás Fernández Mercau to New York City for 8 million euros and Nicolás Castro to Mexican side Toluca for 5 million euros. Several established names have also left the club for free, including Álex Martín, Matías San Román, Óscar Plano and José Salinas. Veterans such as Mario Gaspar and Elbasan Rashani are now without a club.

The transfer window has thus given Elche a financial surplus, but at the same time they lost a lot of experience. The team seems to be betting on younger profiles and players with development potential, which can provide energy and pace, but which also involves a certain risk. It will be exciting to see if the new signings can quickly adapt and help stabilize the club in La Liga.

Espanyol

Espanyol enter the new season with a completely different starting point than last year. Having established themselves as a team that could become more stable in the table, they are now faced with a harsh reality. The sale of goalkeeper Joan García to Barcelona for €25 million is not only a financial boost – it is also a sporting loss that will be felt immediately. García was one of the team's most important players last season, both as a last resort and as a security factor for the defense. Several of the points Espanyol picked up can be traced directly back to his saves at crucial moments. Replacing that kind of presence is rarely easy.

They have brought in 22-year-old Roko Fernández from Braga, a goalkeeper with potential but no experience at the top level like La Liga. It is a transfer that in the short term involves risk. In addition, the offensive has received a breath of fresh air with the signing of Tom Dolan from Blackburn and right-back Javi Salinas from Elche, both of whom can add more dynamism on the counterattack and width in the game.

In midfield, they have strengthened with Manu Fernández from Betis Deportivo and brought in Ramon Terrats on loan from Villarreal – a player with the ability to tie the knot and contribute both defensively and offensively. However, the central line appears vulnerable if injuries occur, as several experienced names have disappeared without corresponding experience being brought in.

Defensively, Espanyol have lost Álex Tejero to Aris and veteran stopper Sergi Gómez, which weakens the experience at the back. With a defense that already struggled with organization last year, the interaction between the new goalkeeper and the back row will be crucial. Even small mistakes in La Liga are punished severely.

The goal seems to be a safe mid-table position, but the road to get there will be demanding. The team has the quality to surprise on a good day, but key players need to deliver consistently and the starting phase will be critical. How Espanyol handles life after Joan García – and whether the new signings make a quick impact – could be one of the most exciting developments to follow this season.

Getafe

Getafe enter the new season with a solid mix of experience and reinforcements in key positions. The club has made several smart moves to strengthen the squad, while also getting rid of players who either wanted new challenges or were no longer part of the sporting plans.

In attack, Juanmi has been brought in from Real Betis. He comes in as a seasoned goal threat who can contribute both experience and a certain goal guarantee, something Getafe badly needed. The 17-year-old Davinchi from Recreativo Huelva is a more forward-looking signing – an offensive talent the club hopes to develop over time. At right-back, Kiko Femenía has arrived on a free transfer from Villarreal, a player with solid La Liga experience who will immediately strengthen the defensive width. In central defence, they have secured Abdelkabir Abqar from Alavés, while the midfield is reinforced by Yvan Neyou, who brings both physicality and ball control to the team. In addition, Jaime Muñoz has arrived from Las Palmas as a wide option in defence.On the outgoing side, it is worth noting the sale of Omar Alderete to Sunderland, which gives the club a nice sum to reinvest. Carles Aleñá has gone to Alavés, which opens up space for new profiles in the midfield. Yellu Santiago goes to Hellas Verona on a free transfer, while Jonathan Silva is trying his luck in Malaysia with Johor DT. Defender Javi Berrocal is on loan to Atlanta, and experienced Allan Nyom and Juan Bernat are without a club after their contracts expire.Overall, Getafe seem to have had a balanced transfer window. They have managed to add much-needed experience in key positions, while also opening the door for younger players to grow into the team. The big question is whether their goal production can be improved – Juanmi will be given a lot of the responsibility here. If he succeeds, this transfer window could prove to be one of the more successful for the club in recent years.

Girona

Girona enter the new season with ambitions to build on a strong period in the club's history, but at the same time with a clear change in the squad. Some big names have left the club, while experienced and high-profile signings have been brought in to strengthen the central line.

One of the most notable signings is Axel Witsel, who arrives on a free transfer from Atlético Madrid. The 36-year-old Belgian brings experience, composure in the passing game and a tactical understanding that could be invaluable for a team looking to control matches more. Girona have also brought in Thomas Lemar on loan from Atlético, a creative winger with technique and experience from the top level, but who has also had some injury challenges in recent seasons. From Manchester City, they have secured young centre-back talent Vitor Reis on loan, a move that could provide extra quality in the build-up game from the back.

Another exciting addition is right-back Héctor Rincón from Athletic Club, on loan for €200,000. He brings more energy and attacking width to the team from the back position. At the same time, several players return from loans, but it is the established signings who are expected to make the biggest difference.

The club has lost important players such as Ibrahima Chaira to Real Oviedo for €1.5 million and Víctor Fernández to Real Zaragoza. In addition, experienced Juanpe has left for Mexican San Luis, and promising young players such as Guille Missehouy and Javi Garcia have been loaned out for playing time. Several profiles such as Arthur Melo, Anwar El Ghazi, Oriol Romeu and Bryan Gil have returned to their clubs after loans, which removes both breadth and experience from the squad.

The transfer window shows a balance between gaining experience to raise the level here and now, and giving younger players the chance to grow into bigger roles. Girona will need time to get the new signings to work together, but the combination of Witsel's experience, Lemar's creativity and defensive reinforcements could make the team more complete.

The aim will be to remain in the top half of the table, but a lot depends on the injury situation of key players and how quickly the new players can make an impact on the team. Girona seem to have a plan – the question is whether they can translate it into points consistently throughout the season.

Levant

Levante enter the new season with a clear desire to build on the foundations of last season, but with a heavily reshuffled squad. The transfer window has been marked by both significant sales and several strategic reinforcements.

The biggest sale is Giorgi Kochorashvili to Sporting CP for €5.5 million – a noticeable loss for the midfield, where the Georgian's work capacity and technical skills were important for the balance of the team. In addition, experienced players such as Antonio Fernández (UD Almería) and Vicente Iborra (on loan) have disappeared, while captaincy experience and defensive security are also weakened by the departure of Iñigo Miquel to CD Leganés.

Levante have brought in both experienced and young players. Jokin Olasagasti comes from Real Sociedad for €500,000 and adds much-needed control in midfield. Kévin Arriaga has been brought in from Partizan for the same amount, a midfielder who can cover several roles. Offensively, the club has secured Gauthier Koyalipou on loan from Lens, a powerful striker who can provide more variety in the attacking game, while Miguel Moreno (Fiorentina) and Alan Matturro (Genoa) – both on loan – will help to increase defensive stability.

Another important signing is Jeremy Toljan, who comes on a free transfer from Sassuolo. The German right-back has experience from the Bundesliga and Serie A, and can provide a clear boost both defensively and offensively on the wing.

With a net plus on the transfer balance, Levante are showing financial discipline, but it remains to be seen whether the sporting qualities of the team have been strengthened enough to assert themselves in La Liga. The loss of key players, especially in midfield, puts pressure on the newcomers to perform immediately.

The goal should be to secure a safe place early on, but the competition in the bottom half is tough. If the combination of experienced names like Toljan and hungry mercenaries like Moreno and Matturro works, Levante could build a solid season. But if the integration fails, the loss of players like Kochorashvili and Iborra could be very noticeable.

Mallorca

Mallorca enter the new season with a clear strategy to renew the squad with young, developable players, while several profiles have left the club. The transfer window has been relatively quiet, but contains some signings that could prove to be very important.

The biggest investment is the purchase of Pablo Torre from Barcelona for €5 million. The 22-year-old midfielder is known for his technique, creativity and ability to dictate the pace of the game. He will be a key piece in the team's offensive structure. From Chelsea, Mallorca have brought in Swedish central defender Lucas Bergström for free, a tall and physically strong player who provides extra security in the air. Offensively, the club has also secured winger Mateo Joseph on loan from Leeds, a player with speed and work capacity who could fit well in the team's counter-attacking style.

In addition, some players return from loans, including Javier Llabrés and Siebe Van der Heyden, but the latter quickly left the club again after transferring to KAA Gent.

On the outgoing side, Mallorca have sold two key players in defence: José Copete to Valencia for €3.6m and Van der Heyden to Gent for €2m. Both were key contributors at the back, and it will be a challenge to replace their routine and synergy. Furthermore, midfielder Rodrigo Navarro has left for Athletic Club on a free transfer, while both Víctor Fernández and Chiquinho have returned to Girona and Wolves respectively after loan spells.

With a net profit of €600,000, the transfer window shows financial balance, but also a risk: the team depends on the newcomers, especially Torre, quickly finding the level needed in La Liga. At the same time, a great responsibility rests on the established players to provide the youngsters with a safe framework in which to grow.

Mallorca has strengthened in some areas, but the losses in defense can be felt, especially in tough away games. If Torre succeeds in taking a leadership role in the creative game, and Joseph finds the scoring form, the team can establish itself safely in mid-table. But if the integration of new players takes too long, the margins could quickly become small in the fight to avoid relegation.

Osasuna

Osasuna enter the new season with a mix of financial consolidation and sporting uncertainty. After a summer in which the club has raised significant funds through sales, the question remains whether the quality of the squad is sufficient to match last season's performance.

The most significant revenue came from the sale of right-back Jesús Areso to Athletic Club for €12 million. Areso has been one of the team's most consistent contributors defensively, and his absence will be felt both in the duel game and in the offensive support work. In addition, experienced names such as Unai García (Panetolikos), Rubén Peña (CD Leganés) and José Arnáiz (Granada) have left the club for free, which weakens both the breadth and routine of the team.

Osasuna have invested in two players in the summer, with the biggest signing coming in the form of V. Muñoz from Real Madrid Castilla for €5 million. The 21-year-old winger is a young, exciting talent with pace and dribbling skills that could add something extra in the final third. Left-back Vincent Rosier joins from CD Leganés on a free transfer, a player with La Liga experience and the ability to cover multiple defensive roles. Adrian Yoldi and Iván Benito return from loan spells to provide added depth in attack and midfield.

Still, the transfer window appears to be more defensively weakened than offensively strengthened. The loss of Areso without a direct replacement at the same level places a responsibility on Rosier and the rest of the back line to step up. It is also uncertain how Muñoz will adapt to the transition from Segunda to La Liga – the potential is great, but it takes time to adjust to a higher pace and better opponents.

With a net surplus of €7 million, Osasuna have shown financial discipline, but risk their sporting ambitions being weakened if the new signings do not kick in quickly. The goal will likely be a safe mid-table position, but a weak start could quickly drag the team into relegation contention, especially if injuries affect the few key players remaining.

The season will be a test of the club's ability to innovate while maintaining competitiveness in a league where margins are increasingly narrowing.

Rayo Vallecano

Rayo Vallecano enter the new season with a squad that has undergone noticeable changes, but without major financial excesses. The transfer window has been characterized by targeted signings, but also the loss of experienced profiles that have made their mark on the team in recent years.

Most notably, the signing of Argentine goalkeeper Augusto Batalla from River Plate for €1.6 million. He comes in as a clear first-choice keeper and should provide more stability at the back after previous options have delivered mixed performances. In central defence, Luiz Felipe has arrived on a free transfer from Marseille – a player with both Serie A and La Liga experience, known for his physicality and dueling strength. The midfield has been given added passing power and composure with Gerard Gumbau, brought in on loan from Granada, while youngsters Jason Vertrouwd (Castellón) and Eto'o (Rayo B) add hunger and development potential to the squad.

Out, several key names have disappeared. Striker duo Sergi Guardiola and Raúl de Tomás are both gone, to Córdoba and Al-Wakrah respectively, and their departure leaves a question mark over goal production. José Ángel Montiel has left for Qarabag FK, while veteran Alejandro Hernández is without a club. Goalkeeper Miguel Morro has gone on loan to Leixões, and Adrián Embarba is back in Almería after a loan.

The loss of the established strikers places a clear responsibility on the club's remaining offensive forces, while the addition of defensive quality could help to close the gap at the back. It is still an open question whether the team has enough offensive breadth to decide even games - an area that could be decisive in the relegation battle.

With a net spending of a modest €1.6 million, Rayo have chosen a cautious financial line. The focus seems to be on acquiring established but cost-effective solutions, supplemented by young players who can be developed.

The key to the season for Rayo Vallecano will be finding the balance between defensive security and sufficient goal threat. If Batalla and Luiz Felipe succeed in raising the level at the back, the team can build a solid foundation. But without a clear goal guarantor, the margins in the fight for a safe place may be very small.

Real Betis

Real Betis enter the new season after a transfer window marked by major transfers and a solid financial surplus. With several heavy sales, the club has gained considerable freedom of action, but also lost key players who were central in previous seasons.

On the attacking side, we find several exciting signings. Nicolás Deossa from Monterrey (€11.7 million) adds power and work capacity in midfield, while center back Natan is brought in from Napoli for €9 million to strengthen the defense. Offensively, Betis has secured Rodrigo Riquelme from Atlético Madrid for €8 million – a creative and dribbling winger who can contribute with both goals and assists. In addition, 18-year-old midfielder Guilherme Petit has been brought in from Nacional for €6 million, seen as a long-term project with great potential. Furthermore, Víctor Gómez (Vélez Sarsfield) has arrived for €5.3 million as an alternative at right back, while Pau López and Junior Firpo have been brought in on a free transfer to provide experience and breadth in the team.

The club has made a number of sales so far, totalling €62.33 million in revenue. Among the most significant are Johnny Cardoso to Atlético Madrid (€24 million), Juan Rodríguez to Como (€22.5 million) and goalkeeper Rui Silva to Sporting CP (€4.7 million). Romain Perraud (LOSC Lille), Álex Collado (Al-Shamal) and Youssouf Sabaly (Al-Duhail) are also among the profiles that have left the club. In addition, goal scorer Borja Iglesias has gone to Celta Vigo for €2 million, and Juanmi to Getafe for €1.2 million.

With a net profit of €22.33 million, Betis have had one of the most profitable transfer windows in La Liga, but it also means a significant sporting responsibility for the newcomers. In particular, the replacements in midfield must quickly fill the void left by Cardoso, while the attack needs Riquelme and Deossa to deliver from the start to compensate for the loss of Iglesias.

The goal will be to stay in the fight for the European Cup places, but the key lies in getting the many new players to function as a unit. The transfer window shows that Betis have thought long-term and acted smartly financially – now it remains to be seen whether this also produces results on the pitch.

Real Madrid

Real Madrid enters the new season with one of the most spectacular transfer windows in the club's recent history. With investments of over €160 million, the sports management has clearly strengthened both the present and the future, while some of the most experienced names have left the Santiago Bernabéu.

The most expensive signing is centre-back Dean Huijsen, brought in from Bournemouth for €62.5 million. The 20-year-old Dutchman is seen as a future leader in defence, with a combination of physical strength and passing foot that fits perfectly into Real Madrid's style of play. Close behind is Álvaro Carreras, the left-back from Benfica bought for €50 million, who will provide offensive width and defensive stability on the left. From River Plate, the club has secured the super talent Franco Mastantuono for €45 million – an attacking midfielder with enormous potential.

A more experienced addition is Trent Alexander-Arnold, bought from Liverpool for €10 million. The Englishman adds precise set pieces and creativity from right-back, while also giving the team an extra dimension in the build-up game. From his own Castilla stable, goalkeeper G. García comes in as a backup.

On the outgoing side, it is primarily Luka Modrić who attracts attention. The 39-year-old midfielder has left for AC Milan on a free transfer after more than a decade at the club, leaving a void both in terms of sport and leadership. Jesús Vallejo (Albacete) and Lucas Vázquez (without a club) are also leaving the team, while young players such as Á. Rodríguez and Miguel Martín are seeking playing time elsewhere. Reinier has been sold to Atlético-MG on a free transfer after several loan spells.

With a net spending of €165.5 million, Real Madrid are showing that they are not shy about spending resources to strengthen the team. The big question is how Xabi Alonso integrates the many new profiles without losing the collective balance that was crucial to last season's success.

The objective is clear: win La Liga and fight until the end in the Champions League. With a mix of world-class reinforcements and some of the most promising young players on the market, Real Madrid have all the makings to dominate – but the expectations will be correspondingly enormous.

Real Oviedo

Real Oviedo enters the new season with a significant renewal of the squad, where both experienced players and young profiles have come in. The transfer window has been active, with a combination of purchases, free transfers and loans, but also several experienced players who have left the club.

The most expensive signing is Serbian Luka Ilic, bought from Red Star Belgrade for €2 million. The technical midfielder will help set the pace and contribute creativity in the final third. From Girona, winger Ibrahima Chaira has been brought in for €1.5 million, a fast and direct attacking threat. In goal, Alberto Reina has arrived on a free transfer from Mirandés, while the midfield has also been given a boost through Bruno Dominguès from Debrecen.

The loan market has been well utilized, with Álex Forés (Villarreal) as a striker option, experienced Salomón Rondón (Pachuca) as an offensive leader, and H. Moldovan (Atlético Madrid) to strengthen the goalkeeping position. Ovie Ejaria, formerly of Reading, has been brought in as a free midfield reinforcement, while several young players return from loans to compete for playing time.

The outgoing side shows a clear generational change. Veterans Carlos Pomares, Pedro de la Fuente and Samuel Moyano have left for Real Zaragoza, while Q. Braat (Rodez) and D. Paraschiv (Leonesa) are also out. Captain Carlos de la Hoz and the experienced Francisco Portillo are without a club. In addition, striker Joselu Seoane has returned to Pachuca after a loan, and right-back Alemão is back in Internacional.

The loss of several seasoned La Liga players means Oviedo will need to build new leadership in the dressing room, but the addition of Rondón and Moldovan provides both experience and physical presence. With a net spend of €3.5 million, the club has invested moderately but purposefully.

The goal will likely be to establish themselves securely in midfield, while testing whether the new signings can give the team enough quality to challenge in the top half. Success will largely depend on how quickly Ilic and Chaira find the synergy with Rondón and the rest of the attacking line - and whether the renewed defense can withstand when the opposition gets tougher.

Real Sociedad

Real Sociedad enter the new season with a transfer window that has been a huge financial success, but also left a huge sporting void. With the sale of Martin Zubimendi to Arsenal for a whopping €70 million, the club has lost one of its most important players. The midfield general was the heart of the team, both in the distribution of the ball and in the defensive work, and his absence will require a collective solution.

On the inside, Gonçalo Guedes has been brought in from Wolves for €4 million. The Portuguese adds pace, technique and a goal threat from the wing, but has had a career marked by uneven form. In defence, Duje Ćaleta-Car has arrived on loan from Lyon for €500,000 – a physically strong centre-back who can provide stability at the back. Several players have stepped up from their own academy base, including Mikel Goti, while Umar Sadiq is back from loan at Valencia to provide an extra dimension in attack.

In addition, J. Karrikaburu (Racing) and J. Gorrotxategi (Mirantés), both young players with the potential to contribute in the attack, return. Cristian Fernández (Cádiz) and U. González de Zárate (Espanyol) provide width options in midfield and defence.

On the outgoing side, in addition to Zubimendi, Jokin Olasagasti has gone to Levante for €500,000, while Magunazelaia has signed for Eibar on a free transfer. Nayef Aguerd has returned to West Ham after his loan spell ended. Although these sales have generated a huge net of €66 million, questions are raised as to whether the team has strengthened itself sportingly as much as financially.

Real Sociedad now face a season where the key question will be how to replace Zubimendi's importance in midfield. The club has retained a solid core, and the additions in attack could make the team more unpredictable. However, there is a risk that they lack a clear leader in the central line, which could be decisive in close matches.

With the finances in balance and a wide squad, the goal is to remain in the fight for the European Cup places. But if Sociedad is to take the next step, Guedes must find his best, Ćaleta-Car must deliver stably at the back, and the midfield must find a new rhythm without Zubimendi.

Seville

Sevilla enter the new season with a transfer window that has primarily been about bringing back familiar faces and strengthening the team without major financial excesses. The club has not spent a single euro on transfer fees, but has still managed to secure several players who can contribute immediately.

Among the most interesting additions are left-back Gabriel Suazo, brought in for free from Toulouse, and centre-back Agustín González from Celta Vigo. Both provide width and experience in the defensive line. In goal, they have secured Odysseas Vlachodimos on loan from Newcastle – a goalkeeper with international experience who can compete for the first-choice spot.

In addition, Sevilla have brought back several players from loan spells. Rafa Mir (Valencia) provides an additional option up top, while Adnan Januzaj (Las Palmas) and Joan Jordán (Alavés) add experience and La Liga experience to the midfield. The most exciting offensive addition may be Kelechi Iheanacho, who returns from Middlesbrough and adds a new dimension to the attacking game with his combination of pace and physicality.

The outgoing side is far quieter. Suso has left the club on a free transfer to Cádiz CF, while Ainsley Maitland-Niles Lokonga (Arsenal) and Saúl Ñíguez (Atlético Madrid) have returned to their clubs after loan spells. Neither of these departures represents a dramatic sporting loss, as they had limited impact last season.

The transfer window shows a pragmatic approach, where instead of bringing in expensive profiles, they have focused on using existing resources and players who know the club. This can be a strength in terms of quick integration, but at the same time it is uncertain whether the additions are enough to raise the level significantly in a league where competitors have spent far more.

Sevilla's goal for the season will be to stabilize in the top half of the table and secure a place in European football. Much will depend on how the team's key offensive players perform, and whether Vlachodimos can help tighten up what was a occasionally leaky defense last year.

With experience, knowledge of the club and a couple of exciting offensive options, Sevilla has put together a squad that can perform solidly – ​​but the question is whether it is enough to break back into the top 4.

Valencia

Valencia enter the new season with a transfer window marked by a balance between investments and sales, but with a clear level of sporting ambition. Several key players have left the club, but the replacements that have been brought in offer hope of strengthening the team both defensively and offensively.

On the attacking side, the most expensive signing is Fabian Ugrinic from Young Boys for €4 million. The Swiss midfielder is known for his running ability and ability to cover large spaces, which could be crucial in Valencia's pressing game. Centre-back José Copete has been brought in from Mallorca for €3.6 million, while experienced Beñat Santamaría (Stade Rennais) adds defensive experience. In the goalkeeper position, the club has secured Julen Agirrezabala on loan from Athletic for €1 million – a strong choice after the loss of Giorgi Mamardashvili. Offensively, Arnaut Danjuma has arrived on a free transfer from Villarreal, a player with the ability to decide games on his own when fit. Dani Raba from Leganés is another free transfer who can contribute work capacity and experience. On the outgoing side, there are several heavy losses. Centre-back Cristhian Mosquera has been sold to Arsenal for €15 million, and the great talent Yarek Gasiorowski has gone to PSV Eindhoven for €9.8 million. Goalkeeper Mamardashvili has left for Liverpool after his loan spell, while Cenk Özkacar is on loan to Cologne. In addition, players such as Gonzalo Valera, Hugo González and Jaume Doménech have left the club permanently or for free. With a net profit of €14.53 million, the transfer window shows that the club has both secured income and invested to fill the gaps. The question is whether the new signings can fill the void left by key players who have left the team – especially in goal and in central defence. Valencia appear to have more width than last year, but must quickly get the synergy right to avoid a slow start. If Ugrinic finds form quickly, Agirrezabala provides security at the back, and Danjuma delivers at a top level, the team can aim for the top half. But the margins in La Liga are small, and any dip in form could drag them down towards the middle tier .

Villarreal

Villarreal enter the new season after a transfer window that has combined large sales with targeted investments in key players for the future. The club has seen several of its most high-profile names disappear, but has also brought in young and established players who could give the team a new boost.

On the attacking front, Las Palmas talent Alberto Moleiro is the most expensive signing, bought for €16 million. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder is known for his technique and ability to create chances, and could become a key figure in Villarreal's attacking play. From Atlético Madrid, centre-back Santiago Mouriño has arrived for €10 million, while Canadian Tajon Buchanan has been brought in from Inter for €9 million to provide speed and creativity on the wing. The midfield has been strengthened with Rodrigo Marín (Napoli) on loan and Thomas Partey on a free transfer from Arsenal, adding both experience and physicality.

On the outgoing side, two major sales are most notable: Álex Baena to Atlético Madrid for €42 million and Tim Barry to Everton for €30 million. Both were important contributors offensively, and their absence will be felt. Other departures include A. Ferrari to Sint-Truiden, J. Pascual to Granada, as well as veterans Raúl Albiol and Eric Bailly, who are now without a club.

With a net profit of €39 million, Villarreal have had a very successful financial window, but it remains to be seen whether the sporting losses can be compensated for quickly enough. The signings of Moleiro and Buchanan give the team offensive potential, while Partey can stabilize the midfield. Mouriño represents an investment in the future of defense, but will need time to establish himself at this level.

The goal will be to compete for European places, but success depends on how Emery or his successor integrates the many new faces. Without Baena and Barry, others will have to step up in the scoring charts – and quickly.

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The transfers are just the beginning of the story – the rest is written on the pitch. Some of these signings will be worth their weight in gold, others will quietly disappear out the back door long before the season is over. That's exactly why it's smart to save this overview. When you're reviewing a game later in the season, you can go back and see what teams actually started with, what reinforcements were in place – and what losses they were never able to cover.

Because in La Liga, the margins are small, and those who understand the whole picture behind the numbers, transfers and team structure are often left with the best assessments – and the most accurate bets.

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This text is part of our La Liga season start series.
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