The Most Disappointing Premier League Transfers of 2025

The Premier League set new transfer records in 2025, but high spending doesn’t always lead to success.

Liverpool spent more on new signings than any other team in history during a single transfer window. The expectation was that they would create a top-tier team, but instead, they have struggled this season, and it looks like they will lose their title.

On the other hand, Sunderland made modest signings that have exceeded expectations, leaving them just four points behind Liverpool in the standings.

While it’s rewarding when a budget-friendly deal shines, it’s disappointing when a hefty investment fails to deliver.

Notable underwhelming Premier League transfers of 2025:

Alexander Isak – Newcastle Utd to Liverpool (£125m + £5m)

Alexander Isak’s transfer to Liverpool not only broke the British transfer record but also became one of the most talked-about moves of the summer. However, it turned out to be quite disappointing. Arriving without match fitness due to a lack of pre-season, he has struggled to perform like the player who thrived at Newcastle.

Ironically, Isak suffered a broken leg while scoring his second league goal for Liverpool, sidelining him for several months.

Viktor Gyokeres – Sporting CP to Arsenal (£55m + £8.6m)

Many believed Arsenal needed a strong centre-forward to succeed, so they invested heavily in Viktor Gyokeres. Although he has slightly fared better than some others, scoring five league goals, two of those were penalties. He has not looked comfortable in Mikel Arteta’s system, unlike his successful stint in Portugal.

Benjamin Sesko – RB Leipzig to Man Utd (£66m + £7.4m)

Manchester United aimed to strengthen their attack by signing a new centre-forward last summer. While they have added more goals, Benjamin Sesko has only scored twice in the league and has struggled to fit into the team. Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund, another young striker they previously signed, is excelling in Italy.

Yoane Wissa – Brentford to Newcastle Utd (£50m + £5m)

Transfer dealings at Newcastle didn’t go smoothly this year. They eventually secured Yoane Wissa, but he faced a knee injury while on international duty, delaying his debut until December. He is yet to start in the league, although he did score in the League Cup.

Anthony Elanga – Nottingham Forest to Newcastle Utd (£52m + £3m)

Anthony Elanga was Newcastle’s first significant signing of the summer. While he began his time at St. James’ Park well, he has struggled to make an impact, with his first assist coming late in November. He has also experienced inconsistent playing time. At the moment, that £55m price tag seems hefty.

See Also – The longest winless runs in Premier League history