International

The summer of 2016 proved quiet in the capital. Instead of chasing the huge headline deals, Alvaro Morata’s return (£25m) marked the only signing from Perez.

On the other hand, Villa and Newcastle’s spending both went over double the amount Madrid splashed.
     Villa brought in nine new players, costing £50 million, though that does not include Albert Adomah’s undisclosed fee after arriving from Middlesbrough. Ross McCormack’s transfer proved the biggest of them all, moving to Villa Park for £12 million.
     Newcastle had a very busy window, with 12 arriving at a cost of £55 million. Matt Ritchie and Dwight Gayle, both signed before the season started, moved to St James’ Park for £10 million each, representing the standout buys.