The term "summer signings" refers to new players who join a football (soccer) team during the summer transfer window. The transfer window is an annual period when teams can buy and sell players, with most leagues closing their windows at the end of August or beginning of September. During this time, clubs often make new additions to their squad in order to strengthen their team for the upcoming season. These new signings are referred to as "summer signings" because they typically join a club during the summer months when the transfer window is open.