The 2024-25 Premier League season has been filled with surprises, but none more compelling than the performances of players who joined new clubs and instantly raised their teams’ levels. While big-money signings often dominate the headlines, several under-the-radar acquisitions have quietly transformed their squads. Whether it’s a centre-back providing much-needed defensive stability or a winger adding firepower, these players have proven to be priceless investments. Among the standout clubs benefiting from smart transfer strategy are Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth, Brighton, Crystal Palace, and Ipswich. These cases show that strategic planning can trump massive budgets.
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Nikola Milenkovic (Nottingham Forest)
Nottingham Forest had a clear defensive weakness last season, particularly when it came to aerial duels and set pieces. To address this, the club turned to Serbia international Nikola Milenkovic, acquiring him from Fiorentina for a modest £10 million. The 27-year-old slotted into the team seamlessly, quickly establishing a strong partnership with Brazilian defender Murillo. Together, they forged one of the most reliable defensive pairings in the Premier League.
Milenkovic’s consistency has been vital. After missing the opening fixture through suspension, he played every single minute in the league thereafter. This level of dependability is rare among outfield players. While Murillo often grabs the spotlight for his flair, Milenkovic’s composure and aerial dominance have laid the foundation for Forest’s unexpected push towards a Champions League berth.
The Serb may not be the flashiest player on the pitch, but his impact is undeniable. His ability to read the game and neutralise top-tier strikers has been central to Forest’s defensive success this season.
Dean Huijsen (Bournemouth)
Bournemouth’s scouting department has earned praise in recent years, and their acquisition of Dean Huijsen from Juventus further cements that reputation. The Dutch-born defender, who spent time on loan at Roma, arrived in the Premier League with minimal fanfare. At just 19 years old, he was thrown into the deep end against world-class attackers and held his own.
Huijsen brings an unflappable presence to the back line. His calmness under pressure and precise tackling have made him a favourite of manager Andoni Iraola. Despite his age, he rarely makes rash decisions and seems to anticipate danger before it develops. His performances have also earned him his first senior caps for Spain, where he was raised.
Although offers of up to £50 million were rumoured in the summer, Huijsen will reportedly return to his homeland to join Real Madrid — a club he previously turned down as a youth. Bournemouth may lose a gem, but his impact this season won’t be forgotten.
Yankuba Minteh (Brighton)
Yankuba Minteh’s move to Brighton from Newcastle was a necessity more than a choice, prompted by Financial Fair Play constraints. Yet the Gambian winger has thrived under Fabian Hürzeler, scoring six goals and assisting four others in limited minutes.
Competing for playing time with the likes of Kaoru Mitoma and Simon Adingra is no easy task, but Minteh’s directness and agility have given him the edge on several occasions. His standout moment came against his former club, Newcastle, when he celebrated emphatically after scoring at the Amex Stadium.
Still only 20, Minteh has shown he possesses both the temperament and raw talent needed to succeed in England. His pace and unpredictability make him a tough assignment for any full-back, and Brighton fans will hope there’s even more to come.
Ismaïla Sarr (Crystal Palace)
Ismaïla Sarr’s arrival at Crystal Palace didn’t cause much of a stir initially. After all, he had already played in the Premier League with Watford and joined from Marseille for £12 million. However, his influence grew steadily as the season progressed.
Replacing Michael Olise was no small task, but under Oliver Glasner’s tactical guidance, Sarr has flourished. Since breaking into the starting XI in October, he’s been a regular contributor, using his pace and dribbling to stretch defences. His December performance against Brighton, where he notched two goals and an assist, showcased his attacking potential.
In the FA Cup, Sarr proved equally valuable, scoring twice in the semi-final win over Aston Villa. With a final against Manchester City looming, Sarr has become a key figure in Palace’s hopes for silverware.
Liam Delap (Ipswich)
Liam Delap’s path to Premier League recognition hasn’t been straightforward. Let go by Manchester City after a decent loan at Hull, he was signed by newly promoted Ipswich. While the team struggled overall, Delap stood out.
A traditional No. 9, Delap relies on physicality and sharp movement in the box. His goals against Tottenham and Chelsea were high points in a tough campaign. Though Ipswich are headed back down, Delap has shown he’s capable of playing at this level.
Interest from several top-tier clubs is growing, and with a £30 million release clause, the striker may not be at Portman Road much longer. His tenacity and positional awareness have not gone unnoticed.
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Conclusion
The 2024-25 season reminded football fans that value in the transfer market still exists. Clubs like Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth didn’t just spend wisely — they reshaped their identity with clever acquisitions.
Players like Milenkovic, Huijsen, and Sarr didn’t arrive with the fanfare of blockbuster names, but their contributions were immense. Their consistency, adaptability, and growth across the season have proven that intelligent recruitment matters just as much as talent.
As the league continues to evolve, it will be the hidden gems who offer the best stories — and often, the best results. Keeping an eye on the next under-the-radar signing could offer insights not just for fans, but for anyone looking to better understand the modern game.
