why do people always insist on trying to work all this out? Just admit that you have no idea what was spent and move on by debating whether the squad is better now than before. If it is then it is largely irrelevant how much was spent. The accounts will show a fuller picture next year
It helps keep track of things and gives an inkling into how the new owners are approaching transfer spending (a key area of concern since the new owners are somewhat inexperienced in this area).
It largely serves two important purposes. By focusing on important spending events (transfers and stadium building) it keeps financial accounts to the forefront of fans minds. This is central to a well-run club, since if it became a once a year event that spending was discussed (during the annual accounts) it would be easier to let things slip. By giving the topic oxygen it remains a priority for fans and the club is better run for it.
The second important purpose to discussing finances (even if its rudimentary estimates) follows on from that, vigilance. By investing time and effort in tracking club spending it demonstrates that the fans want accountability above all else. In part the lax years under Moores and the near ruinous years under G&H stemmed from fan inactivity. I don't mean all fans, just the vast majority. One thing that we have learned from the recent tumultuous years was the need to monitor events on and off the pitch to the best of our ability.
As I watch teams like City and Chelsea hoover up all the talent in the world, while their fans remain carefree to the damage that its doing their club and the rest of the league, as I watch Arsenal implode slowly while their owners cream off massive profits, I remain thankful that, so far at least, Liverpool remain a well-run club, balancing wages and not over-spending but buying quality at the right price. of course there is guesswork involved, but even if this sometimes well off the mark, I will take informed guesswork over nonplussed ignorance any day of the week.