Many clubs strengthened at the last minute (Everton). The usual clubs sat around and watched (Arsenal). Other clubs decided to weaken their team instead (Liverpool). But which clubs completed the best signings? Here is our top ten:
- Eden Hazard – Chelsea
After his calamitous back heel during the Community shield on his debut. His critics, already chomping at the teeth to demolish him for his high price tag, came out of the woodwork and panned him, deeming him an instant flop. But he has completely proven otherwise since the season started, winning three penalties and already setting up more goals for his side then Stewart Downing did for Liverpool all season. If he continues this form, then start putting your money on Chelsea perhaps regaining the title come May.
- Robin Van Persie – Manchester United
Nothing spells a quality signing then grabbing the previous seasons top scorer from your top four rivals, and that is exactly what United have done. By splashing out £24 million for the former Arsenal hitman, they have a striker who is guaranteed to score 15+ goals for the Old Trafford outfit this season. With the likes of Rooney and Kagawa supporting him, expect United to be topping the scoring charts at the very least this season.
- Clint Dempsey – Tottenham Hotspur
One of the Premier Leagues most recognised wingers/forwards. A player of Dempsey’s status would surely be an expensive one to acquire for any club looking for his services. However the USA international has been signed from Fulham for a paltry £6 million. An absolute bargain price for a player who has proven in nearly half a decade at Fulham that he has what it takes to be a fantastic addition at White Hart Lane.
- Dimitar Berbatov – Fulham
It’s not often that a striker who topped the scoring charts just a few seasons ago is left completely out in the cold at a club. That was the situation Berbatov was in however at Manchester United. Now he has the chance for one last hurrah in the premier league with Fulham, a club who lost two attacking threats this window in Dembele and Dempsey. With Berbatov, they have a striker who, despite his mood swings, is guaranteed to get them at least 15 goals a season, there is a reason he was originally purchased by United after all.
- Moussa Dembele – Tottenham
If you had told Spurs fans that their squad would be stronger after selling Modric and Van Der Vaart they would say you were crazy. But Tottenham have done just that, and with the their second signing from Fulham in Dembele, they have acquired a young, pacey winger who is equally adept in the middle or upfront. Alongside Dempsey to help him settle, this new look Spurs midfield is sure to strike fear into the hearts of many defenders.
- Shinji Kagawa – Manchester United
Chelsea got Hazard, United got Kagawa, and United fans have every right to say they may have got the better deal. Here is a young, Japanese international who can create goals for Rooney and Van Persie but also score them. With 13 goals in 31 appearances in a strong German league last season. At a rather cheap price in £17 million. United have got themselves an incredibly talented young star who is sure to steer the reigns of the Red Devils attack for many seasons to come.
- Adam Johnson – Sunderland
Praised by the media and many fans alike for his skill, Adam Johnson was being wasted away on the bench at Manchester City in recent seasons, losing playing time there, and for England. Now Sunderland have signed a winger who is widely considered the natural star to play on the left for both club and country. Johnson will certainly be hungry to prove himself to his doubters with his sublime skill and fantastic crossing, as he looks to propel the Mackems up the table.
- Andy Carroll – West Ham
With no strikers being signed on deadline day. Liverpool are certainly going to regret loaning out record signing Andy Carroll to West Ham this season. Apparently not good enough for Brendan Rodgers style of football at Merseyside, Carroll now has the chance to prove himself once and for all to those who have doubted his ability under the guidance of Sam Allardyce. With Sam normally preferring a direct style of football, Carroll is sure to thrive with the long ball style.
- Santi Carzola – Arsenal
Arsenal fans may be drinking away their sorrows after what seemed like a good transfer window became a nightmare with the departure of Song and Van Persie. However the signing of Carzola may be the shining light they are looking for, he has impressed immeasurably with his constant work rate and sublime through balls. If it wasn’t for Giroud and Podolski wearing their boots on the wrong feet, Carzola would certainly have several assists to his name already.
- Michu -Swansea
No disrespect to Swansea, but where were the big clubs when it came to Michu?!? The attacking midfielder was available for a snippet at £2 million and would have been a benefit to nearly any club in the Premier League. Their loss is certainly Swansea’s gain, as the Spaniard has been extremely instrumental in Swansea’s fantastic start to the season so far. Should he continue this form, Swansea are certain to finish comfortably in mid-table once more.
Who else was a fantastic signing this Summer? Leave your comments below.
About the Author
No Giroud or Podolski? After a few (overemphasised) problems at the start of the season, Giroud’s’s been probably the best Arsenal player over the last few matches.
And Podolski’s been excellent.
I’d also add Hugo Lloris, one of the best keepers in the world.
Oh, and Oscar.