The summer window promised plenty of big transfers, but not every deal got over the line. With Deadline Day now behind us, here are seven players who looked set to move but ended up staying put.
Marc Guehi
One of the major Deadline Day sagas. Guehi had agreed terms, completed his medical and even filmed a farewell video ahead of his Liverpool switch. But Palace pulled the plug late on after failing to land Brighton’s Igor Julio as a replacement. Their captain stays at Selhurst Park for now.
Carlos Baleba
United tracked Baleba all summer but wouldn’t meet Brighton’s €100m asking price. The 21-year-old midfielder will continue at the Amex, though a move to Old Trafford next year still feels possible.
Ademola Lookman
Lookman pushed hard for a move to Inter, claiming Atalanta had broken promises over his future. Bayern and Spurs were also linked, but no deal was done. The Nigerian forward remains an Atalanta player and has been named in their Champions League squad.
Morgan Gibbs-White
Spurs triggered Gibbs-White’s £60m release clause, only for Forest to accuse them of making an illegal approach. In a twist, the midfielder signed a new deal at the City Ground, ending Tottenham’s hopes of landing him.
Rodrygo
Liverpool, City, Arsenal, PSG, Bayern and Spurs were all linked with Rodrygo, but the Brazilian stays at the Bernabéu. With Mbappé, Vinicius, Arda Güler and Franco Mastantuono all competing for minutes, his future will remain a talking point.
Maghnes Akliouche
The French winger had admirers in England, Italy and Germany but never got his move. With Monaco already losing several key players, the club decided to hold on to him for another season.
Emiliano MartÃnez
After his emotional goodbye at Villa Park in May, many expected MartÃnez to leave. United were close to a Deadline Day move but went for Senne Lammens instead. Saudi clubs also showed interest earlier in the summer. For now, the World Cup winner stays at Villa.
