Mikel Merino, Dean Huijsen and Nikola Milenkovic lead SPORTING's definitive top 10 Premier League signings of the 2024-25 season—ranked and reviewed

‎The 2024-25 Premier League campaign will go down as one of the most competitive and financially extravagant seasons in recent memory, with England’s top flight once again outspending all rivals across Europe. Over £2 billion was splashed on fresh talent during the summer and January transfer windows combined, as clubs across the board attempted to reinforce squads with game-changing additions.

'Dean Huijsen.'

‎Getty Images Sport 

‎But as history has consistently shown, spending big doesn’t guarantee success.

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‎While some high-profile names—including Joao Felix, Jadon Sancho, and Federico Chiesa—have underwhelmed spectacularly, a number of signings have proved transformative, both for top clubs chasing titles and mid-table sides seeking survival or European glory. Real value has been found in unexpected places, with clubs like Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth, and Crystal Palace among those pulling off the most impressive coups.

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‎From overlooked veterans to breakout stars, here are SPORTING’s top 10 Premier League signings of the 2024-25 season—ranked and analyzed in full.

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‎10. Omar Marmoush – Manchester City – £59 million

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‎The Egyptian international was a surprise January arrival, but Pep Guardiola’s gamble has paid off. Scoring six goals in 14 league appearances—including a match-winning hat-trick against Newcastle—Marmoush filled in seamlessly during Erling Haaland’s absence. His tactical intelligence and versatility suggest he could become a mainstay in the post-Haaland era at the Etihad.

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‎9. Evanilson – Bournemouth – £40 million

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‎After Solanke’s departure, Bournemouth made a bold move to land Evanilson from Porto. Despite a foot injury that ruled him out for two months, the Brazilian striker has reached double digits in goals and become a focal point in Iraola’s attack. His physicality and finishing ability are reminiscent of the classic Premier League No.9.

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‎8. Ismaila Sarr – Crystal Palace – £13 million

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‎A comeback story of note, Sarr returned to England a more polished and dangerous player. The Senegalese forward has contributed directly to 13 goals and helped Crystal Palace evolve into one of the most counter-attacking threats in the division. His late runs, pace, and creativity have unlocked a new dimension for Oliver Glasner’s setup.

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‎7. Jorgen Strand Larsen – Wolves – Loan (with £23m option)

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‎Brought in to bolster Wolves’ attack, the Norwegian has exceeded expectations with 13 league goals and tireless performances. His strength and intelligent link-up play make him an ideal Premier League striker, and Vitor Pereira has made it clear that retaining him is a summer priority.

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‎6. Maxence Lacroix – Crystal Palace – £15 million

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‎Signed to replace Joachim Andersen, Lacroix took time to adapt but is now a rock at the heart of Palace’s defence. His speed, aerial prowess, and composure on the ball have turned Palace into a defensively formidable side. At just £15m, the Frenchman has been one of the season’s standout bargains.

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‎5. Liam Delap – Ipswich Town – £20 million

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‎Despite Ipswich’s relegation, Delap has emerged as a genuine Premier League-caliber forward. With 12 goals and a tireless work ethic, the 21-year-old showed shades of a young Harry Kane. Linked with Chelsea and Manchester United, Delap’s Premier League return may be immediate.

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‎4. Elliot Anderson – Nottingham Forest – £35 million

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‎Letting Anderson go may haunt Newcastle for years. At Forest, the 22-year-old has blossomed into a dynamic playmaker, showcasing dribbling flair, incisive passing, and a high football IQ. His six assists have been crucial in Forest’s unexpected climb toward European qualification.

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‎3. Mikel Merino – Arsenal – £32 million

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‎Initially signed to deepen Arsenal’s midfield, Merino has reinvented himself as an emergency striker due to injuries—scoring seven league goals, most of which have come in the critical run-in. The Spanish international's adaptability and intelligence have proven invaluable to Mikel Arteta.

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‎2. Dean Huijsen – Bournemouth – £13 million

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‎Juventus’ loss became Bournemouth’s gain. The Spanish-born Dutch defender was a revelation, with his elegant style, defensive awareness, and three-goal contribution from centre-back. His performances earned him a £50m move to Real Madrid, capping one of the most dramatic rises in recent years.

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‎1. Nikola Milenkovic – Nottingham Forest – £12 million

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‎The most impactful signing of the season—and arguably one of the greatest Premier League bargains of all time. Milenkovic transformed Forest’s backline into one of the league’s most resilient, combining physical dominance with calm leadership. With five goals and countless interventions, the Serbian defender redefined what value means in the modern market.

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‎The Season That Rewarded Intelligence Over Hype

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‎This season proved that strategic recruitment and player development can rival, and sometimes outclass, mega-money investments. As Premier League clubs prepare for another summer of spending, the success of Milenkovic, Huijsen, and Merino offers a clear message: stars aren’t always born; sometimes they’re simply signed smart.