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Top 10 'Like A New Signing' Contenders for 26/27: Stars from Man United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Spurs

Summer brings fresh hope in football with transfers, but sometimes the biggest excitement comes not from new arrivals, but from players returning from injury or loan spells — the so-called "Like A New Signing" effect. These players can feel like unexpected solutions hidden within a club, ready to make an impact after long absences.

10) Fabio Carvalho (Brentford)

Carvalho has been sidelined since last November due to an ACL injury. Before that, he only made six Premier League appearances. Now back in action with Brentford’s B team in a closed-door friendly against Swansea’s Under-21s, his return is a rare bright spot.

9) Giovanni Leoni (Liverpool)

With Liverpool’s centre-back situation fragile—Konate gone, Jacquet injured, Ndukwe unable to play due to work permit issues, and Ronald Araujo on loan—Leoni’s comeback is critical. Signed as Van Dijk’s future replacement, his debut ended with a season-ending knee injury, but now back in solo training, he could return by September.

8) Stefanos Tzimas (Brighton)

After a promising start at Brighton following his £21m transfer, Tzimas suffered an ACL injury on his first Premier League start. He’s now back in training and could fill the gap left by Danny Welbeck’s departure to Chelsea.

7) Levi Colwill (Chelsea)

Chelsea’s defense was disastrous last season, conceding three goals regularly, even to lower-ranked teams. Colwill spent most of the season injured but showed promise when he returned late in the campaign. With a new manager in place and fresh signings arriving, his fitness could help stabilize Chelsea’s backline.

6) Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United)

De Ligt played the first 13 games last season before a persistent back issue required surgery in May. Since then, much has changed at United, including management. Now back in training, his return timeline is uncertain, but when fit, he could feel like a fresh addition.

5) Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham)

Kulusevski’s absence due to injuries has left Tottenham’s attack struggling. Although James Maddison was expected to be the key returnee, he’s injured again. Reports suggest Kulusevski might be training again after over a year out, which would ease Spurs’ offensive worries if he returns soon.

4) Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace)

Doucoure’s prolonged injury problems have kept him mostly off the pitch since his peak in 2022/23. With severe setbacks including an Achilles tear and knee issues, his near-invisibility in recent years is striking. Pre-season hints suggest he could re-emerge as a vital player for new manager Pierre Sage.

3) Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)

Jackson’s position at Chelsea remains crucial. Despite criticism and ups and downs, he’s shown glimpses of potential, especially alongside Cole Palmer. New coach Xabi Alonso is giving him chances in pre-season, hinting Jackson might soon step up his game.

2) Alexander Isak (Liverpool)

Isak’s first season at Liverpool was marred by injuries and poor form, making him feel almost like an outsider. Yet, with a new manager at Anfield and a chance to reset, his return to fitness could mark a turning point, potentially establishing him as a top striker in the league.

1) Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)

Rashford embodies the ultimate "Like A New Signing" story. After loans to Aston Villa and Barcelona and a difficult relationship with former manager Ruben Amorim, Rashford is back at Old Trafford under Michael Carrick. Wearing a new squad number, he’s set for a fresh start, ready to contribute once more.

Summary of Top 10 "Like A New Signing" Players

  • Fabio Carvalho: Brentford winger returning from ACL injury.
  • Giovanni Leoni: Liverpool centre-back recovering from knee injury.
  • Stefanos Tzimas: Brighton forward back from ACL damage.
  • Levi Colwill: Chelsea defender recently recovered from injury.
  • Matthijs de Ligt: Manchester United centre-back post-surgery.
  • Dejan Kulusevski: Tottenham winger nearing return after long injury layoff.
  • Cheick Doucoure: Crystal Palace midfielder overcoming multiple injuries.
  • Nicolas Jackson: Chelsea striker aiming to reclaim form.
  • Alexander Isak: Liverpool forward hoping to bounce back.
  • Marcus Rashford: Manchester United attacker reintegrated after loans.

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