A whirlwind of a summer transfer window has so far provided Premier League fans with some mouth-watering deals as some of the sport’s elite stars head to our shores.
While the Pogba, Zlatan and Gundogan transfers have all attracted the majority of media and fan attention, some of the lesser known stars that have made their way to the English game could also prove to be astute additions to the league – and last season was a perfect example of that.
Despite the likes of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Pedro and Nicolas Otamendi all moving to the Premier League for big money, it was in fact the lesser known recruits who performed so adeptly in the 2015/16 campaign. N’Golo Kante, Toby Alderweireld and Dimitri Payet, who collectively, were purchased for less money than Otamendi alone, were the true stars of one of the most incredible seasons in recent memory.
We take a look at 5 new underrated Premier League signings who could make a name for themselves in 2016/17…
Nampalys Mendy
Acquired for just £10 million, French midfielder Nampalys Mendy was recruited in the knowledge that N’Golo Kante would likely be leaving the Premier League Champions.
At just 24, Mendy is an accomplished player and has already been compared to compatriot and former Chelsea man Claude Makalele for his defensive efforts in the middle of the park.
If Mendy can perform anywhere near the level that N’Golo Kante reached last season, the Foxes may have found another world class talent.
Joel Matip
It is testament to the qualities and potential of Joel Matip that Jurgen Klopp made an immediate move for the defender as soon as it became clear Schalke would not offer him a new contract.
The 25-year-old has been a Bundesliga mainstay since the age of 18 and was one of the most underrated defenders in the German game.
The Cameroonian international may take a brief while to adapt to the intensity of the Premier League, but he is the perfect answer to Liverpool’s defensive frailties that have been blindingly obvious for some time.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg
Little media fanfare was noticeable when Southampton announced the signing of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Bayern Munich. However, the Danish international could well be a key player for the Saints in their upcoming campaign.
At just 21, Hojbjerg is vastly experienced, having played over 20 games for Bayern and 17 for his country. If Claude Puel can get the best out of the young star, Southampton could have unearthed yet another gem.
Victor Wanyama
Finally, after two seasons of constant rumours and speculation, Victor Wanyama has joined a Spurs team whose future looks particularly bright under the tutelage of Mauricio Pochettino.
Wanyama has been one of the most dependable midfielder in the Premier League since his move to Southampton from Celtic. While he isn’t the most graceful or exciting footballer to watch, the Kenyan will be the perfect addition to a Tottenham midfield already littered with talent.
Nolito
Due to the sheer financial force of a club like Manchester City, £14 million spent on a player doesn’t generate the excitement of a player perhaps purchased for over £30 million.
However, Nolito has been bought to the Etihad for a reason and Pep Guardiola will know that his compatriot can fit into his system perfectly and contribute immensely.
The Spaniard may not be the most revered incoming at City this summer, but he could turn out to be the most prolific.
