As the new Premier League season approaches, clubs have finally begun to flex their financial muscles in the transfer market.
Here are five significant signings to keep an eye on as they look to make an impact on their respective teams.
Dominic Solanke (Tottenham Hotspur)
Tottenham are banking on Dominic Solanke to lead their attack and help them return to the Champions League. Solanke, who netted 19 goals for Bournemouth last season, joins Spurs for a potential club-record fee of £65 million.
Manager Ange Postecoglou expressed his confidence in Solanke, stating, “He’ll be a great fit for us.” With Spurs failing to replace Harry Kane when he left, the pressure is now on Solanke to step up and deliver in a big way.
Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United)
Matthijs de Ligt has reunited with his former Ajax coach Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, hoping to reignite his once-promising career. After high-profile stints at Juventus and Bayern Munich, the 25-year-old defender’s form had dipped.
De Ligt, however, is eager to prove himself under Ten Hag again, saying, “Erik ten Hag shaped the early stages of my career.” Alongside other new signings in defense, De Ligt will be a key figure in United’s defensive overhaul as they look to strengthen their backline.
Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal)
Arsenal made waves by securing the signature of Riccardo Calafiori, the Italian defender who had an impressive 2023/24 season with Bologna. The Gunners reportedly paid £42 million to land the 22-year-old, beating out Juventus for his services.
Calafiori is a versatile player, comfortable playing as either a left-back or center-back. His strong performances for Italy, even during their underwhelming European Championship campaign, have raised expectations.
With Arsenal boasting the Premier League’s best defense last season, it remains to be seen where Calafiori will fit into Mikel Arteta’s lineup. However, his addition strengthens Arsenal’s backline as they aim to end a 21-year title drought.
Niclas Fuellkrug (West Ham United)
West Ham United’s headline signing this summer is German international Niclas Fuellkrug. The 31-year-old striker had a standout season at Borussia Dortmund, scoring 16 goals and helping them to the Champions League final.
Known for his physical presence and strength in the air, Fuellkrug is expected to lead the Hammers’ frontline as they push for European qualification again. His popularity in Germany has even led to calls for him to start over Arsenal’s Kai Havertz at the upcoming Euros.
Pedro Neto (Chelsea)
Chelsea made a major move by signing Portuguese winger Pedro Neto from Wolves for £54 million. Neto, known for his pace and flair, will face stiff competition from Raheem Sterling, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Noni Madueke for a spot in Enzo Maresca’s starting eleven.
Neto’s career at Wolves was often interrupted by injuries, but Chelsea is banking on his potential to add quality to their attack as they aim for a more consistent season.
