IT'S that time of year again when all fans and pundits alike have to talk about is which players may or may not be on the move in the transfer market. Indeed, it’s already been a busy window with Newcastle United the only Premier League club yet to make at least one addition to their squad ahead of the new 2021/22 season.

Much has been said and written about transfers involving the likes of Jadon Sancho and Ibrahima Konate, with Manchester City’s pursuit of Jack Grealish and Harry Kane also dominating the agenda, but what about the transfers that haven’t made as many headlines? Here are five of the best under-the-radar signings made in the Premier League this summer.

Kristoffer Ajer (Brentford)

Likened to Virgil van Dijk, Kristoffer Ajer made the £13m move from Celtic to Brentford last week. For someone who is still only 23, the Norwegian defender boasts a wealth of top tier experience having won three league titles as a first team figure for the Glasgow club and played at Champions League and Europa League level.

Standing at 6ft 6in tall, Ajer is physically imposing, which will help him in the Premier League, but is technically excellent on the ball as well. Brentford, known for their expansive style of play, tracked the Norwegian for years and finally got their man this summer. Ajer is ready to take the next step in his career and Brentford looks to be the perfect place for him to do this.

Albert Sambi Lokonga (Arsenal)

Signed for just €17.5m from Anderlecht, Albert Sambi Lokonga isn’t Arsenal most notable summer addition, but he might just prove to be their shrewdest. The 21-year-old was a key figure for the Belgian club last season and has the qualities to prove the Gunners with more bite and structure in the centre of the pitch.

Lokonga is most effective at the base of the midfield unit. The Belgian’s energy and intensity allows him to cover large areas of the pitch while his technical ability on the ball means he can pick a pass, which is an important attribute for any player in a Mikel Arteta team. Lokonga could be a surprise hit in North London.

Enock Mwepu (Brighton)

He might not even be the most noteworthy arrival in the Premier League from Red Bull Salzburg this summer (looking at you, Patson Daka), but Enock Mwepu could make a real impact at Brighton. Nicknamed ‘The Computer’ due to his ability to take on instructions and perform a number of different roles, Mwepu looks perfect for Graham Potter’s side.

Mwepu is comfortable in the centre of the pitch or on the right side of the midfield. The Zambian is strong in the tackle, can carry the ball and has a goal threat too, as he has already demonstrated in pre-season for his new club. Brighton play a possession-based game, but Mwepu will give them someone skilled at stopping opponents.

Crystal Palace's summer signings so far:

Marc Guéhi – £21m
Joachim Andersen – £15.75m
Michael Olise – £8.37m
Conor Gallagher – Loan

Very solid business pic.twitter.com/ZhVfD1GpBe

— Oddschanger (@Oddschanger) July 30, 2021

Michael Olise (Crystal Palace)

Patrick Vieira is building a young and exciting team at Crystal Palace and Michael Olise, signed from Reading for £8m this summer, embodies this. The 19-year-old had a hand in an extremely impressive tally of 19 goals for Reading in the English Championship last season and will bring a certain verve to Selhurst Park. 

Only three English Championship players created more chances than Olise (84) last season with the teenager a real threat from set pieces. His versatility will likely make him an important figure for Vieira, with Olise capable of playing off the left wing, in behind the central striker or even in the middle of the pitch.

Ashley Young (Aston Villa)

On the surface, Ashley Young’s return to Aston Villa this summer was driven by sentimentality. The former Inter and Manchester United winger-turned-wing back is one of the club’s best ever exports and so fans will enjoy seeing Young back in Villa colours as it will evoke memories of his first stint there.

However, Young could be a real asset for Dean Smith’s side this season. Capable of playing on the left or right side, the 36-year-old remains one of the best crossers in the game. This is good news for the likes of Ollie Watkins who could benefit from the service provided by Young in the wide areas.