Football BaBe
The countdown to the new Premier League season continues as clubs up and down the top-flight put the finishing touches to their squads and tactical plans before the opening round of games this coming weekend.
That means its predictions season, and here at BALLGM we’re no different. Our writers have been giving their takes on all the biggest issues, from the the likely Golden Boot winners and surprise packages to the biggest disappointments and those managers who will be hoping to avoid ‘winning’ the sack race.
It’s been a monster transfer window heading into the new campaign, and we’ve taken a look at the potential best signings of the summer, and which players will prove to be the best value for money over the next nine months:
The countdown to the new Premier League season continues as clubs up and down the top-flight put the finishing touches to their squads and tactical plans before the opening round of games this coming weekend.
That means its predictions season, and here at BALLGM we’re no different. Our writers have been giving their takes on all the biggest issues, from the the likely Golden Boot winners and surprise packages to the biggest disappointments and those managers who will be hoping to avoid ‘winning’ the sack race.
It’s been a monster transfer window heading into the new campaign, and we’ve taken a look at the potential best signings of the summer, and which players will prove to be the best value for money over the next nine months:
Mark Doyle: Florian Wirtz is likely to be the most popular pick here – and that’s wholly understandable. Liverpool may have paid a colossal amount of cash for the German’s services, but the kid is absolute quality, and he should run amok in the Reds’ star-studded forward line. However, if we’re talking about the best value-for-money signing, Rayan Cherki should prove an absolute steal for Manchester City. The 21-year-old France international is an outstanding young talent, more than capable of filling the creative void left in Pep Guardiola’s team by Kevin De Bruyne. City have done so, so well to pick him up for just £34m.
Tom Maston: After the summer signings of 2024 largely failed to deliver, Premier League clubs haven’t held back this time around, with a number of clubs having spent like never before on some of the game’s most exciting and talented individuals. I like the look of West Ham‘s new left-back, El Hadji Malick Diouf, as a potential sleeper hit, while both Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres could be game-changers for Arsenal. But it’s hard to look past Florian Wirtz being the most impactful new arrival into the league. The Germany international is one of the best players in world football, full stop; him scheming behind Liverpool’s new-look forward line promises to make the Reds even more of a handful to defend against than they were last term.
Amee Ruszkai: There is understandably some scepticism about Viktor Gyokeres’ 39 goals in the Portuguese top-flight last season and just how transferrable that will be to the Premier League, especially given how some other strikers making that same move have fared recently. But he’s not new to England and the general nuances of the domestic game, having impressed plenty at Coventry City, and his prolific Champions League campaign also shows he hasn’t just been an average striker thriving in a weaker league. I see Gyokeres excelling in north London and taking Arsenal’s ability to challenge for the title up a notch.
Stephen Darwin: Whisper it, but Manchester United might finally be starting to get their act together, or at least they are in the transfer market. After years of signings that have failed miserably, the additions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo are a significant step in the right direction. Both are proven in the Premier League and in the Cameroon international, United now have a player who is able to combine power, finesse and an ability to finish chances that’s been sorely lacking at Old Trafford.
Sean Walsh: Well, he cost £116m, he’d better be good! I think the typical Premier League fan will be pleasantly surprised at just how amazing Florian Wirtz is, however. We’ve lost one superstar creator in Kevin De Bruyne, and Wirtz is perfectly placed to step into that void on these shores.
Richard Martin: Manchester United have relied upon Bruno Fernandes for far too long, and at last the captain has a player on the same level as him. Matheus Cunha has talismanic quality, with an ability to score from all situations and create chances from nothing for himself or his team-mates. He has also has the fierce competitive nature which United have lacked for more than a decade and he will ensure the Red Devils make up for their terrible previous campaign by finishing in the top five.
James Westwood: Liverpool broke the British transfer record to sign Florian Wirtz, and the German playmaker will repay every cent of his £116m fee in his debut season. There is no better attacking midfielder in Europe than Wirtz, who is a technical wizard with a genius-level footballing IQ and a ruthless edge. It’s frightening to imagine how many goals Liverpool will score with Wirtz providing expert service to fellow new signing Hugo Ekitike and Mohamed Salah.
Krishan Davis: This is dependent on whether Liverpool get their proposed move for Alexander Isak over the line, but if they don’t, then another Swede will be the signing of the summer. Don’t expect Viktor Gyokeres to plunder 39 league goals like he did in Portugal last season, but even half that sum would put him among the division’s top scorers and well clear of what any Arsenal player managed in 2024-25. If he can hit the ground running, he could make a mockery of his £64m ($85m) fee. I do also expect Florian Wirtz to impress, but the transition from the Bundesliga is rarely an easy one.
Joe Strange: For £116m – if all bonuses are met – you’d expect one hell of player, and that’s exactly what Liverpool have got after smashing their transfer record to bits to sign Florian Wirtz. The seriously-talented German should fit seamlessly into Arne Slot’s starting XI, and it’s unlikely the pace or physicality of the Premier League will cause him any problems as he sets about helping his new team defend their crown. Expect goals, assists and slaloming runs aplenty as the 22-year-old quickly justifies that mega price-tag.
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Premier League 2025-26: BALLBB Writers Predict the Season’s Top Signing
The transfer window is always a period of intense speculation and excitement for Premier League fans. As we look ahead to the 2025-26 season, our team of writers at BALLBB have been dissecting potential moves and identifying the players who could truly shake up the league. This isn’t just about big names; it’s about finding the perfect fit, the player who will elevate their new team and become a key figure in the Premier League title race. We’ll cover potential signings for top clubs like Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United, as well as dark horse candidates who could surprise everyone.
The Contenders: A Deep Dive
Several players are consistently linked with moves to the Premier League, and for good reason. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most talked-about prospects, along with our writers’ assessments:
- Ivan Toney (Brentford): Despite his recent suspension, Toney remains a highly sought-after striker. His goal-scoring record speaks for itself, and several top clubs are likely to be interested in adding his firepower. The key will be his form upon his return and the price tag Brentford demands.
- Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP): The Swedish striker has been tearing up the Portuguese league. His pace, power, and clinical finishing make him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their attack. He’s a more affordable option than some of the other names on this list.
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Napoli): The Georgian winger was a revelation for Napoli last season. His dribbling skills, creativity, and eye for goal make him a nightmare for defenders. However, Napoli will likely demand a significant fee.
- Joshua Zirkzee (Bologna): A rising star in Serie A, Zirkzee offers a unique blend of physicality and technical ability. He’s a versatile forward who can play in multiple positions, making him a valuable asset for any team.
- Antonio Silva (Benfica): A commanding centre-back, Silva is already a key player for Benfica and the Portuguese national team. His aerial ability, tackling prowess, and composure on the ball make him a top target for clubs looking to strengthen their defense.
BALLBB Writers’ Top Picks
After much debate, here are our writers’ predictions for the Premier League‘s top signing of the 2025-26 season:
Sarah Jones – Manchester City to Sign Antonio Silva
“I believe Manchester City will make a move for Antonio Silva. They’ve always prioritized defensive solidity, and Silva represents the next generation of world-class centre-backs. His partnership with Rúben Dias would be formidable, and he’d bring a level of composure and leadership that City currently lacks in that position. The transfer news surrounding him is already heating up, and I expect City to be at the front of the queue.”
David Lee – Arsenal to Secure Viktor Gyokeres
“Arsenal need a reliable goalscorer, and Viktor Gyokeres fits the bill perfectly. He’s proven himself in a competitive league, and his work rate and pressing ability align with Arteta’s tactical philosophy. He’s a more realistic target than some of the other strikers on the market, and I think he’d be a fantastic addition to the Gunners’ squad. His Premier League impact would be immediate.”
Emily Carter – Liverpool to Land Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
“With Salah potentially moving on, Liverpool will need to find a player who can provide creativity and goals from the wing. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is that player. He’s a dynamic, unpredictable winger who can beat defenders with ease. He’d add a new dimension to Liverpool’s attack and help them challenge for the title. The football transfer rumours suggest Liverpool are already monitoring his situation.”
Potential Dark Horses & Unexpected Moves
While the names above are the most frequently discussed, the Premier League is known for its surprises. Here are a few potential dark horse signings to keep an eye on:
| Player | Current Club | Potential Destination | Impact Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Giorgio Scalvini | Atalanta | Manchester United | 4 |
| Morten Hjulmand | Sporting CP | Tottenham Hotspur | 3.5 |
| Arnau Martínez | Girona | Newcastle United | 3 |
Analyzing the Impact: Key Factors
Predicting the success of a Premier League signing isn’t just about the player’s individual quality. Several factors come into play:
- Tactical Fit: Does the player suit the manager’s system?
- Squad Harmony: Will the player integrate well with the existing team?
- Financial Fair Play: Can the club afford the transfer fee and wages?
- Adaptation to the League: Can the player handle the physicality and pace of the Premier League?
- Injury Record: A player’s history of injuries can significantly impact their availability.
First-Hand Experience: Scouting Reports & Insights
Our writers have extensive networks of scouts and contacts within the football world. We’ve received positive reports on several players, particularly regarding their character and work ethic. These intangible qualities are often just as important as technical ability when it comes to succeeding in the Premier League. For example, scouts consistently praise Gyokeres’ dedication to improving his game and his willingness to learn.
Benefits of Smart Recruitment
A successful transfer window can be the difference between challenging for the title and finishing mid-table. Smart recruitment allows clubs to:
