8. Asier Illarramendi – Real Sociedad to Real Madrid (£34m)
Seen by some as a surprise purchase, one of Real Madrid’s big investments this summer came in the form of Asier Illarramendi from Real Sociedad. The 23-year-old has no doubt impressed with the Basque side so far in his career, but his price tag of £34m seems rather inflated for a player of his inexperience. However, he could now become a crucial member of Carlo Ancelotti’s side with a long-term injury to Xabi Alonso, and we could see a great glimpse into the future of Spanish football if Illarremendi can combine well with fellow new signing Isco, who also joined this summer from Malaga.