Completed Transfers
While high-profile transfers grab the headlines and generate a buzz on social media, many fascinating moves in football often go unnoticed. Beyond the attention-grabbing stories and record deals lie opportunities for astute clubs to discover hidden talents, rejuvenated veterans, or emerging stars ready to shine. As the summer transfer window heats up, Transfermarkt has filtered through the noise to spotlight 10 transfers that may not have made the headlines but could end up being some of the smartest signings this season. These are the moves you might have overlooked but are worth paying attention to.
10 Underrated Transfers
Álex Baena → Atlético Madrid – Fee: €42m
Atlético Madrid made a significant statement last week with the €42m acquisition of Villarreal’s playmaker Álex Baena. As one of LaLiga’s most technically gifted young talents, Baena contributed 10 assists and seven goals in the league last season, adding flair and creativity to Diego Simeone’s lineup. At only 22, he offers long-term value, with his market value rising steadily to €55m over the last two seasons.
Jørgen Strand Larsen → Wolves – Fee: €27m
After a successful loan spell at Molineux, Wolves have secured the permanent signing of Jørgen Strand Larsen from Celta Vigo for €27m. The Norwegian forward scored nine Premier League goals, emerging as a reliable attacking option. His physical presence and aerial ability make him a fitting addition to the English game, and the fee reflects Wolves’ belief in his potential for growth.
Gerson → Zenit – Fee: €25m
Zenit St. Petersburg pulled off an impressive deal with the €25m signing of Brazilian midfielder Gerson from Flamengo. Returning to Europe after a stint at Marseille, Gerson brings valuable experience from both South America and Europe. A dynamic box-to-box midfielder, his presence elevates the squad, making him one of the Russian Premier Liga’s most valuable players, with a market value matching his transfer fee.
Samuele Ricci → AC Milan – Fee: €23m
AC Milan has acquired promising defensive midfielder Samuele Ricci from Torino for €23m. The 22-year-old Italy international is acknowledged for his tactical acumen and precise passing. Viewed as a future cornerstone in Milan’s midfield, Ricci adds depth and technical proficiency as the Rossoneri aim to strengthen their domestic performance after last season’s challenges.
Jesús Rodríguez → Como – Fee: €22.5m
In one of the standout signings in Italy this window, Como, backed by Cesc Fàbregas, has invested €22.5m to acquire Jesús Rodríguez from Sevilla. The young Spanish winger brings valuable top-flight experience and attacking flair to the ambitious Serie A club, signaling Como’s aspirations to ascend within Italian football.
Jonathan Burkardt → Eintracht Frankfurt – Fee: €21m
Eintracht Frankfurt has fortified their attack with the acquisition of German forward Jonathan Burkardt from Mainz for just €21m, despite the player having a market value of €35m. Burkardt netted 18 Bundesliga goals last season, trailing only behind Harry Kane and a few others in the scoring charts.
Antoni Milambo → Brentford – Fee: €20m
Brentford has added Dutch talent Antoni Milambo from Feyenoord for €20m in a classic move for the Bees. The 19-year-old attacking midfielder is known for his creativity and maturity on the pitch. With Brentford’s strong development track record, Milambo has the potential to become one of the Premier League’s next breakout stars, especially with the expected departures in the squad.
Maxim De Cuyper → Brighton – Fee: €20m
Brighton has finalized the €20m signing of Belgian left-back Maxim De Cuyper from Club Brugge. A progressive defender who excels in build-up play, De Cuyper aligns seamlessly with Brighton’s tactical approach. At just 23, he brings immediate quality and future potential, marking another shrewd acquisition by Brighton’s recruitment team.
Kamaldeen Sulemana → Atalanta – Fee: €17m
Ghanaian winger Kamaldeen Sulemana has made the switch from relegated Southampton to Champions League-bound Atalanta for €17m. Renowned for his speed and one-on-one skills, Sulemana could add a new dynamic to Atalanta’s attack, now working under former Southampton manager Ivan Jurić. This move could rejuvenate Sulemana’s career trajectory.
Vinícius Souza → Wolfsburg – Fee: €14m
Wolfsburg has bolstered their midfield with the €14m acquisition of Vini Souza from Sheffield United. Despite the Blades’ unsuccessful promotion bid, Souza displayed promising qualities as a defensive midfielder, showcasing strong ball-winning capabilities. At 25 years old, he is set to enhance Wolfsburg’s midfield strength and agility.
