1. Alexander Isak
From: Real Sociedad
To: Newcastle United
Alex Isak is a very unique striker from many aspects. He is lengthy, and makes big strides in the front, presenting himself when any ball comes his way. His numbers from last season may not have impressed many (6 goals and 2 assists) being a €70 million transfer, but his potential is limitless. Newcastle now have the money, and more importantly the time for Isak to grow and adapt to the system. The Magpies’ main man, Allan Saint-Maximin had a one word reaction to Isak’s debut goal against Liverpool: “Wow”. Newcastle were able to stay competitive with Liverpool on Tuesday night, without their best player. Adding Alexander Isak to this mix will make them competitive. I truly believe Newcastle will be challenging for Europe this season.
2. Lisandro Martinez
From: Ajax
To: Manchester United
Yet another Ajax product that Erik Ten Haag has managed to recruit to Manchester, Lisandro Martinez seems like the missing piece for United’s back line. Many people believed his 5’9” height would stop him from being a threat in the Premier League, but he has been the best defender against some of the EPL’s best forwards so far. Having Martinez paired up with Varane in the starting lineup has proved to be successful for Ten Haag, as just one goal has been allowed in the last 3 games, compared to 6 in the first two. Harry Maguire, looks like your chance is over.
3. Oleksandr Zinchenko
From: Manchester City
To: Arsenal
A transfer that flew a bit under the radar, Oleksandr Zinchenko is looking for a fresh start after not getting quality minutes at Manchester City. Signing for Arsenal just after his City teammate Gabriel Jesus, Zinchenko managed to find his way into the starting 11 immediately. This signing may not be underrated from a talent perspective, but more for depth. While Zinchenko starts, Scottish Left back Kieran Tierney backes him up. When Tierney got injured last season, Arsenal had to turn to an unreliable bench, which truly ended up costing them. Now having Zinchenko, who has the capability to play midfield, will help this squad when injuries start to kick in.
4. Matheus Nunes
From: Sporting CP
To: Wolverhampton Wanderers
Bruno Lage’s team are in one of the toughest stages they’ve witnessed in a while. Currently sitting at 18th in the Premier League, Wolves are yet to get a win. That being said, their bench isn’t deep at all, which adds fuel to the dumpster fire going on. There were a few bright spots recently, one being the signing of Matheus Nunes for €45 million. Nunes has caught the eyes of many, including Pep Guardiola, who called him “one of the best in the world.” Being a creative midfielder, I feel like Nunes can really be the centerpiece of this Wolves team, as they lack an identity. Manager Bruno Lage needs to make changes to the starting 11, I feel, to give this team a chance to win. I think it would be interesting to see how Nunes and Adama Traore line up, if Traore finds time to play.
5. Lucas Paqueta
From: Lyon
To: West Ham United
It’s been long overdue for Lucas Paqueta to finally come into the Premier League. The Brazilian midfielder is big, creative, and nifty. He is the exact piece West Ham need, someone who can change the course of a game in an instant. Paqueta has a strong foot for a player his size, netting 9 goals and accumulating 6 assists last season in Ligue 1. The potential Paqueta and defensive midfielder Declan Rice have is limitless. The two seem a perfect match for each other, and they each complement one’s style of play. If Paqueta is able to adjust well for the Hammers, I feel like making Michail Antonio a better player will be key. Antonio needs to be set up with quality chances, something Paqueta has the ability to do. Being as dynamic as he is, I feel like Paqueta can ultimately help change the course of the season for West Ham, because of his unique energy and playstyle.
Top Photo: West Ham United