Top 10 'Like A New Signing' Players for the 26/27 Premier League Season

Summer is transfer season, often bringing fresh hope with new signings. Yet nothing excites fans more than the return of players who feel like new additions due to long absences, injuries, or loan spells. This list highlights ten players from Man United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and others who fit that bill for the upcoming 26/27 season.

10) Fabio Carvalho (Brentford)

The former Liverpool winger suffered an ACL injury in November last year, limiting him to just six Premier League appearances before the setback. He's now back in action, having featured in a behind-closed-doors friendly for Brentford's B team against Swansea U21s. His return offers hope despite the long layoff.

9) Giovanni Leoni (Liverpool)

Liverpool face uncertainty at centre-back after losing Ibrahima Konate and dealing with injuries. Leoni was signed as a potential long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk but had a season-ending knee injury on his debut. Currently back in solo training, he aims for a September comeback, marking a hopeful turning point for the Reds' defence.

8) Stefanos Tzimas (Brighton)

After joining Brighton for £21m from Germany last summer, Tzimas showed promise before suffering an ACL injury in his first Premier League start. Now back in training, he could help fill the void left by Danny Welbeck’s departure to Chelsea, bringing fresh energy and goals to the Seagulls.

7) Levi Colwill (Chelsea)

Chelsea struggled defensively in 25/26, conceding three goals in several matches. Colwill spent most of that season injured but returned late to show glimpses of solidity at centre-back. With a new manager and fresh signings, Chelsea have several players who could be 'like new signings', including Colwill.

6) Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United)

De Ligt was a regular for Man United early last season but missed the remainder due to a back problem requiring surgery. He is now back in training amid many changes at Old Trafford since his last appearance, making his return feel like a fresh start for both player and club.

5) Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham Hotspur)

Injuries have plagued Tottenham’s squad, including key players like James Maddison. Kulusevski, out for over a year following a knock, reportedly has begun some form of training. His comeback could relieve pressure on Spurs’ struggling attack, with coach Roberto De Zerbi hopeful of an early return.

4) Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace)

Doucoure has faced nearly three injury-ridden years, limiting him to just 13 Premier League appearances since late 2023. Forgotten by many, his recent pre-season involvement signals a possible resurgence for Crystal Palace’s midfielder under new boss Pierre Sage.

3) Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)

Jackson must remain at Chelsea to qualify as 'like a new signing'. Despite ups and downs, he impressed alongside Cole Palmer last season. New manager Xabi Alonso has given him pre-season minutes, showing faith in his ability to contribute in the coming campaign.

2) Alexander Isak (Liverpool)

Isak's first season at Liverpool was marred by injuries and poor form, making him feel less like a true Red. The change in management might revive his fortunes, and if he regains fitness, he could prove a vital attacking option in a league lacking elite strikers.

1) Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)

Rashford tops this list as the ultimate 'like a new signing.' After loan spells away and falling out of favour under a previous manager, he now returns to Old Trafford under Michael Carrick. Sporting a new squad number, Rashford’s reintegration feels like a genuine fresh start for the club's star forward.

Summary of Top 10 'Like A New Signing' Players

• Fabio Carvalho: Brentford, returning from ACL injury.
• Giovanni Leoni: Liverpool centre-back aiming for September return.
• Stefanos Tzimas: Brighton forward back after ACL injury.
• Levi Colwill: Chelsea defender recovered from injury.
• Matthijs de Ligt: Manchester United defender returning post-surgery.
• Dejan Kulusevski: Tottenham winger resuming training after long absence.
• Cheick Doucoure: Crystal Palace midfielder recovering from multiple injuries.
• Nicolas Jackson: Chelsea striker showing promise under new manager.
• Alexander Isak: Liverpool forward hoping for resurgence.
• Marcus Rashford: Manchester United star reintegrated, symbolizing a fresh start.