Premier League analysis: Three under-the-radar summer signings – Sunderland, Leeds United and more
The Premier League is set to continue this weekend after a two-week hiatus for the first international break of the season.
Following a hectic summer, the time off has given us plenty of time to digest the good, the bad, and the ugly of the transfer window.
With Alexander Isak’s £130 million move to Liverpool and Benjamin Sesko’s big-money switch to Manchester United, there have certainly been some huge deals.
However, there are a few signings that have slipped under the radar for being superb bits of business.
With that in mind, Transfer News Blitz writer Louie Rudge-Ferro has identified three underrated summer signings.
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Adrian Truffert
Rennes to AFC Bournemouth (£11.4 million plus add-ons)
One of those players who could prove to be a quality signing is Adrien Truffert at AFC Bournemouth.
The Cherries had their backline raided over the summer by Europe’s elite.
Ilya Zabarnyi crossed the English Channel to join Paris Saint-Germain, while Dean Huijsen moved to LaLiga titans Real Madrid.
Not to forget that left-back Milos Kerkez also signed for Liverpool in a deal worth £40 million.
Replacing the quality of these players has not been easy, but Truffert has already caused a few heads to turn this season.
The Frenchman graduated through Stade Rennais’ academy before making the £11 million switch this summer.
What impresses me about the left-back is his consistency.
Last season, the 23-year-old played nearly every minute of football in Ligue 1 and remained solid week in week out.
Not only that, but the Truffert made very few errors and was not half bad creatively for a defender.
The full-back is certainly one to watch, after producing several good performances already in the opening weeks.
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Gabriel Gudmundsson
Lille to Leeds United (£10 million)
Another player to keep an eye on is Leeds United’s Gabriel Gudmundsson.
The Swede joined up at Elland Road from Lille for £10 million after spending over four years with the French side.
Another Ligue 1 left-back, this time with more exposure to playing in big games.
The 26-year-old played 13 times in the Champions League last season, registering one assist.
While Gudmundsson is not known for his creativity, he will offer stability and experience in the back line, which Leeds will need if they are to avoid relegation.
Last season, the Sweden international averaged three tackles per game and two clearances, and while he is not setting the world alight, he does offer consistency.
Already this season, Gudmundsson has helped the Whites to a vital three points against Everton on the opening day, as well as a 0-0 draw with Newcastle United.
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Nordi Mukiele
Paris Saint-Germain to Sunderland (£10 million)
Before moving on to the final player, I will give an honourable mention to Brian Brobbey at Sunderland.
The Dutchman had a great season two years ago at Ajax with 30 goal involvements, but did not make the next step.
Signing for a Premier League side will be a big test, but the forward definitely has the quality to make a big impact and score big goals.
Another underrated Sunderland signing, though, is that of Nordi Mukiele from PSG.
The 27-year-old will play at the Stadium of Light following his £10 million switch from last year’s Champions League winners.
The Frenchman has played countless seasons of European football at the highest level and can play across the backline.
Mukiele had standout seasons in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig, but injuries and a lack of game time in recent seasons have slowed down his career.
The key to success for Mukiele will be if he can stay fit, which, if he can, he will be a massive asset for the Black Cats and an absolute steal.
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