Summer 2024: Most Important EPL Transfers

As the Premier League has begun again, clubs have been busy strengthening their squads with some key signings. These acquisitions could shape the fortunes of their new clubs, providing much-needed quality, depth, and tactical versatility.

Here’s a detailed look at the most important Premier League signings this summer so far.

You can also follow our daily EPL transfers round-up by clicking here.

Savinho (Troyes to Manchester City)

Manchester City’s acquisition of Savinho from Troyes is one of the most intriguing moves this summer. The Brazilian winger, who dons the No. 26 shirt in admiration of Riyad Mahrez, is poised to make a significant impact at the Etihad Stadium.

Signed by the City Football Group (CFG) in 2022, Savinho has been carefully developed through loan spells at Girona and Troyes. During his time at Girona, the 20-year-old showcased his talents by helping the club secure a Champions League spot, dazzling fans with his ability to cut inside from the right flank and make incisive runs.

Savinho’s skill set is reminiscent of Mahrez, with his assured ball control and a penchant for driving at defenders. His potential is enormous, and under Pep Guardiola’s guidance, he could blossom into one of the Premier League’s standout players this season. His arrival adds yet another dimension to City’s already potent attacking options.

Ben Brereton Diaz (Villarreal to Southampton)

Southampton’s signing of Ben Brereton Diaz for just £6.8 million is already being hailed as one of the bargains of the transfer window. The Chilean international forward, who enjoyed a successful loan spell at Sheffield United last season, scored six goals in 14 games, proving his ability to perform in the Premier League. At 25 years old, Brereton Diaz is entering his prime and offers a versatile attacking option for the Saints.

In Southampton’s dynamic, free-flowing system, Brereton Diaz is expected to thrive. His ability to cut in from the left and unleash curling shots has already been on display, with a stunning preseason goal against Lazio. If he continues to develop, this could be one of the shrewdest signings of the summer.

Joshua Zirkzee (Bologna to Manchester United)

Manchester United’s pursuit of young, flexible forwards led them to secure the services of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna. The Dutch international, still only 23, made a significant impact in Serie A last season, scoring 11 goals and playing a pivotal role in Bologna’s surprising Champions League qualification.

Zirkzee’s journey from Bayern Munich’s academy to becoming a key player in Italy has been impressive, and now he faces the challenge of proving himself at one of the world’s biggest clubs. His versatility allows him to operate across the front line, providing creativity and directness to United’s attack under Erik ten Hag. As United continue their quest to return to the top of English football, Zirkzee’s contribution could be crucial.

Pedro Neto (Wolves to Chelsea)

Chelsea’s decision to splash £53.3 on Pedro Neto has raised some eyebrows, primarily due to the Portuguese winger’s injury history. However, when fully fit, Neto is a player of immense talent, often drawing comparisons to Eden Hazard for his dribbling ability and direct attacking style. At 24, Neto is entering a critical phase of his career, and Chelsea fans will be hoping he can overcome his injury troubles to become a key player.

Neto’s ability to beat defenders and create opportunities makes him an exciting addition to Chelsea’s squad. If he can maintain his fitness, he could become one of the best wingers in Europe, providing the Blues with the attacking flair they have lacked in recent seasons.

Max Kilman (Wolves to West Ham United)

West Ham United’s acquisition of Max Kilman from Wolves for £39.6 million might not have the flashiness of other signings, but it could prove to be one of the most important moves of the summer. Kilman, 27, has been a consistent performer in the Premier League, particularly under Julen Lopetegui at Wolves, where he became a key figure in their defence.

Kilman’s attributes—calmness on the ball, aggressiveness in the tackle, and excellent aerial ability—make him a perfect fit for West Ham’s defensive needs. His versatility in playing both in a back three and a back four will be invaluable as the Hammers look to rebuild and compete on multiple fronts. With a potential England call-up on the horizon, Kilman’s leadership qualities will also be vital in the dressing room, even with Jarrod Bowen assuming the captaincy.

Riccardo Calafiori (Bologna to Arsenal)

Arsenal’s swift and decisive move to sign Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna signals their intent to continue evolving under Mikel Arteta. The 22-year-old Italian defender, who can operate as both a left-back and a centre-back, was a standout performer in Serie A last season. His ability to carry the ball out from the back and his composure in possession caught the eye during Italy’s Euro 2024 campaign, even as the team struggled overall.

Arteta’s tactical vision for Arsenal involves a fluid defensive setup, where players like Calafiori and Ben White, nominally full-backs, push into central midfield roles when in possession. Calafiori’s long-range passing ability adds another layer to Arsenal’s game, providing a strategic advantage as they aim to challenge for the Premier League title.

Dominic Solanke (Bournemouth to Tottenham)

Tottenham Hotspur’s £53.3 million signing of Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth, with potential add-ons taking the fee to £63.2 million, has been met with mixed reactions. However, for those who watched Solanke’s performances last season, the move makes perfect sense. The 26-year-old striker enjoyed a breakout campaign, scoring 19 goals in the Premier League and showcasing the attributes that made him a hot prospect earlier in his career.

Solanke’s ability to run the channels, hold up play, and link with teammates will suit Tottenham’s style of play perfectly. A year after Harry Kane’s departure, Spurs needed a forward who could offer a different dimension, and Solanke appears to be that player. Supported by the likes of Timo Werner, Son Heung-min, Dejan Kulusevski, and James Maddison, Solanke could be set for another prolific season as he steps into the spotlight at Tottenham.

Conclusion

The summer transfer window has seen Premier League clubs make strategic signings to bolster their squads for the challenges ahead. From young talents like Savinho and Zirkzee to experienced performers like Kilman and Solanke, these players are poised to make significant impacts at their respective clubs.

As the season unfolds, these signings could prove to be the difference-makers in their teams’ quests for success, whether it’s in the title race, European qualification, or battling relegation. Each of these players brings something unique to the table, and their performances will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.

And we still have a little over a week of the window to go.