The January 2026 transfer window witnessed 5,900 international transactions, a record three percent increase from last year. However, total expenditure fell by 18 percent to $1.9 billion, below 2025's $2.35 billion peak.

English clubs remained the biggest spenders with $363 million, though notably lower than prior outlays. Italian clubs followed with $283 million, while Brazil entered the top three with $180 million, largely driven by Flamengo signing Lucas Paqueta. Saudi clubs dropped to sixth place, spending just $101 million. Meanwhile, French clubs led global receipts earning $218 million.

Women’s football also established a new financial milestone; spending jumped 85 percent to over $10 million, despite a six percent dip in transfer volume. English teams again led this market, accounting for half the total at over $5 million. These figures highlight a distinct shift toward volume over value in men's football, contrasted by the surging investment seen in the women's game.