8 Huge Transfer Rumours That Never Happened in 2025
Ah, the summer transfer window, that magical time of the year where Twitter (sorry, X) melts down every five minutes, agents play 4D chess, and Photoshop merchants put players in new kits before they’ve even packed their bags. But just like that rumoured Messi return to Newell’s Old Boys in 2023, some stories are destined to stay in the “What if?” folder.
So here it is: your official roundup of the most talked-about transfer rumours of summer 2025 that never actually crossed the line.
1. Nico Williams to Barcelona
Barcelona fans had their shirts ready. Hansi Flick reportedly wanted that electric left flank pairing of Nico and Lamine Yamal. But when the dust settled, Nico Williams extended with Athletic Club, citing “unfinished business”. Translation: Barça couldn’t cough up the release clause.
Reality check: Nico stayed at Athletic Bilbao and extended his contract.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo to Al-Hilal
Al-Hilal were apparently planning a “Ronaldo + Neymar = Content machine” combo. The rumour mill said they were cooking something seismic. But CR7, despite the constant Saudi shuffle, stayed loyal to Al-Nassr, because if you’re going to rewrite records, might as well do it in one colour.
Reality check: Al-Nassr fans breathe a sigh of relief.
3. Morgan Gibbs-White to Nowhere
At one point, it felt like MGW was linked to every top-six Premier League club and even a few in Italy. But after Fabrizio Romano announcing that Gibbs-White has signed for Tottenham Hotspurs, it looked like the dust had settled but NO. Why not. In the end, Forest held firm and priced him like he was prime Kaká.
Reality check: Stayed at the City Ground and extended his contract
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4. Florian Wirtz to Manchester City
Wirtz looked like the perfect Man City signing. Young, technically flawless, German, the kind of player Pep dreams about while reorganising his tactical folders. But with man City already spending big in the january summer market, it became difficult for them to match the price for Florian Wirtz.
Reality check: Liverpool swooped in and got their German No.10 at Anfield.
5. Kevin De Bruyne to Liverpool
This one had legs. KDB was entering the final year of his deal, recovering from a long injury, meaning Liverpool and Saudi clubs were circling like seagulls around chips. But De Bruyne decided to join Napoli instead and exit the Premier League. It would have been a dream come true for Mo Salah if he had joined Liverpool.
Reality check: He has joined Napoli and will be balling with Scott McTominay.
6. Bruno Fernandes to Al-Hilal
Ah yes, the classic “player deletes club name from bio” saga. Bruno considered the idea of Al-Hilal, at least according to insiders and emojis, but never pushed for a move. United fans had a mini meltdown, but he’s back captaining the ship at Old Trafford.
Reality check: Will be still yelling at teammates in red.
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7. Neymar to Barcelona (Again)
Another year, another Neymar return rumour. And with Barça’s eternal need for a reunion tour, this one had some bite — especially as Neymar recovered from injury. But finances were the main problem behind it, and Ney stayed in Brazil with Santos.
Reality check: Nostalgia isn’t cheap.
8. Viktor Gyokeres to Manchester United
With Højlund needing support and United’s attack still looking patchy, Ex-Sporting player Viktor Gyokeres emerged as a strong candidate. United were rumoured to have “serious interest” due to Gyokeres and Ruben Amorim’s previous relationship at Sporting but nothing materialised, mainly due to the €100m price tag.
Reality check: Now he has joined their rivals, Arsenal.
Also Read- Premier League 2025/26 Predictions: Top 4, Title Race, Relegation Battle And More
