New Season, New Stars: 10 Signings to Watch in Bundesliga & Premier League

Greetings friends,

A new season is rolling: Premier League, Ligue 1, and La Liga are underway, while the Bundesliga and Serie A kicking off next weekend.

The new season is packed with excitement, and we’re ready to bring you fresh ideas, projects, and content all season long.

For now, let’s close out our series on the standout transfers across Europe’s top five leagues with the final chapter.

Bundesliga 🇩🇪

🇺🇸 🇩🇪 Malik Tillman → PSV to Leverkusen 35 million € 💶

Bayern Munich academy graduate and USMNT international Malik Tillman, born to a German mother and an American father, is returning to his roots after three seasons abroad with Glasgow Rangers and PSV Eindhoven. Tillman is a versatile attacking midfielder who can dictate play as a No. 8 or 10, with the flexibility to play on the left. He was even used on the right wing during Michael Beale’s period at Rangers in 2022/23, which could give a glimpse of the positional richness that makes him so valuable. He missed nearly three months last season with a syndesmosis injury but still finished with 16 goals and 3 assists, improving on his 9 goals and 11 assists in 2023/24.

2024/25 Eredivisie stats:
🔹 95th percentile – progressive passes received (6.72 per 90)
🔹 95th percentile – successful take-ons (1.97 per 90)
🔹 94th percentile – progressive carries (2.82 per 90)
🔹 99th percentile – shot-creating actions (4.37 per 90)

2024/25 Champions League stats:
🔹 87th percentile – progressive passes received (5.23 per 90)
🔹 86th percentile – successful take-ons (1.52 per 90)
🔹 95th percentile – tackles (3.55 per 90)
🔹 99th percentile – shot-creating actions (6.08 per 90)

As a whole, Tillman is a dynamic midfielder with elite attacking instincts, creative flair, and a strong defensive work rate. His shooting makes him a constant threat, and in his local league he has the potential to be a genuine difference-maker. In the post-Wirtz era at Leverkusen, he could emerge as one of the more mature and polished young players in the squad, making a noticeable impact compared to his younger teammates.

Figure 1: Malik Tillman Touch Heatmap and Successful Take-Ons, Dutch Eredivisie 2024/25

🇩🇿 Mohamed Amoura → Union SG to Wolfsburg 14.75 million € 💶

Wolfsburg agreed a €14.75 million deal to permanently sign Algerian international Mohamed Amoura from Union Saint-Gilloise, following a loan spell in which he scored 10 goals and provided 9 assists in 31 Bundesliga appearances last season. Mohamed Amoura is a skilled, all-around forward whose electric pace, clinical finishing, and relentless pressing make him a game-changing striker in the Bundesliga.

His contract runs until 2029, giving Wolfsburg a strong negotiating position with no immediate pressure to sell. Despite this, Benfica have shown serious interest, complicating the situation. Wolfsburg are reportedly asking €40 million, and the negotiations are already underway. Amoura’s potential move to Lisbon is closely linked to Kerem Aktürkoğlu’s possible departure to Fenerbahçe, if Benfica sell Kerem, it could trigger a domino effect, paving the way for the Algerian striker’s transfer. As if that weren't interesting enough, Benfica and Fenerbahçe have been drawn against each other in the Champions League Play-off, setting the stage for two high-stakes matches that could directly impact Amoura’s transfer saga, what a storyline, guys!

Mohamed Amoura Stats Last 365 Days - Men's Big 5 Leagues, UCL, UEL

🔹 98th percentile assists (0.33 per 90)

🔹 81st percentile shot creating actions (2.92 per 90)

🔹 95th percentile – progressive carries (2.96 per 90)

🔹 86th percentile tackles (1.06 per 90)

🔹 97th percentile progressive passes received (8.90 per 90)

We repeatedly expressed our admiration for Mohamed Amoura last season, ‘Dead Ball Digest’ readers know exactly what we mean. While his smaller frame may present challenges in more physical leagues, his balance, intelligence, and pure finishing make him a constant threat. Whether he stays in the Bundesliga or moves to the Portuguese league, Amoura has proven he’s a top-quality striker. We’ll be following the transfer updates closely.

Figure 2: Mohamed Amoura Touch Heatmap with Goals and Assists, Bundesliga 2024/25

🇨🇲 Christian Kofane → Albacete to Leverkusen 5.25 million € 💶

Christian Kofane (2006, Cameroon) trained at AS Nylon, AS Monaco partner academy, before joining Spanish Second league club Albacete in late 2024. He scored 8 goals in 20 games last season, with a fantastic period from mid-March to late April earning him a first-team spot and putting him on the radar of Europe’s top clubs.

Kofane is physically strong, technically skilled, and capable of keeping the ball well under pressure. He reads the game well and shows composure in front of goal, already outpacing many of his peers in finishing. Like any young prospect stepping into the Bundesliga, he may experience ups and downs as he gets used to the league’s intensity. He marked his Leverkusen debut with a goal against Großaspach in the DFB-Pokal first-round match, helping the team to a 4-0 win on Friday. Bayer Leverkusen consider him as a long-term project, and if his progress so far is a guide, we’ll be hearing his name a lot more in the coming season.

Figure 3: Christian Kofane Shots per 90 and Goals per Shot on Target vs. U21 Forwards Across Top 14 European Leagues

🇯🇵 Shuto Machino → H. Kiel to M.Gladbach 8 million € 💶

After Alassane Plea moved to PSV Eindhoven, Tomas Cvancara went on loan to Antalyaspor, and Tim Kleindienst suffered a long-term injury, Borussia M'Gladbach needed striker reinforcements. Japanese forward Shuto Machino answered the call, having an excellent Bundesliga season with Holstein Kiel by scoring 11 goals and providing 2 assists. Machino is familiar with the Bundesliga, beginning his fourth season in Germany. He can link up effectively with midfield, combining excellent mobility with a strong work rate and a team-first mentality.

Last season, Machino had 7.87 expected goals (xG) and scored 12 total goals ( 11 Bundesliga + 1 DFB Cup), showing an exceptionally high conversion rate. Tactically disciplined, physically strong, and capable of creating opportunities for his teammates, he brings multiple dimensions to the attack. Borussia M'Gladbach has made a signing that can complement their system and style of play, and it will be interesting to see how he adapts and impacts Gladbach’s attack from the opening weeks of the season.

Figure 4: Shuto Machino Shooting Statistics 2024-25 Bundesliga season

🇳🇱 Ezechiel Banzuzi → OH Leuven to Leipzig 16 million € 💶

RB Leipzig’s rebuild continues with another addition in Ezechiel Banzuzi, arriving from OH Leuven for €16 million transfer fee. Born in 2005, the 1.91m Dutch midfielder is a solid box-to-box midfielder, capable of influencing the game both defensively and offensively.

Banzuzi made his professional debut with NAC Breda (2021–2023), making 51 Eerste Divisie appearances before moving to Belgium Jupiler Pro League, where he played 71 matches for OH Leuven (2023–2025). His standout performances last season caught the attention from Premier League sides Leicester City and West Ham United, but RB Leipzig took action quickly to secure his transfer.

2024–25 Belgian Pro League (per 90 mins)
🔹 89th percentile – Aerial duels won (2.12)
🔹 87th percentile – Shot-creating actions (3.02)
🔹 92nd percentile – Long pass completion (81.1%)
🔹 83rd percentile – Progressive carries (2.03)

Even while still developing, Banzuzi combines power and dynamism to deliver the box-to-box profile RB Leipzig urgently needed. If he adapts to the intensity and demands of the Bundesliga, he has the potential to become a standout name in Europe’s top leagues. That said, improving his finishing and decision-making will be key to unlocking his full potential.

Premier League 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

🇳🇱 Jorrel Hato → Ajax to Chelsea 44.18 million € 💶

Jorrel Hato is a rising star who is capable of playing at both centre-back and left-back. He represents the typical Ajax academy profile as he joined the club at age 12 and, in February 2023, became the third-youngest player to debut in the Eredivisie. Impressively, he even captained Ajax at just 17 years old during a Europa League match in December 2024. Even at a young age, he has shown great composure and confidence with the ball. His passing is precise, and while adapting to the Premier League’s physicality may take some time, once he’s settled, he will be one of the most reliable and influential ball-playing defenders in the squad. Hato plays from the back rather than relying on long balls, and it is likely one of the key qualities Enzo Maresca values most in his players.

It seems like he will rotate in for Marc Cucurella on the left, however he has a bit different style compared to Cucurella. He also has the passing ability to create decisive chances for his teammates. While he doesn’t attempt a wide range of passes into the box or complete a large number of key passes, the passes he makes are extremely effective. When he advances into the left half-space, he consistently finds teammates in dangerous positions, either in the center of the penalty area or at the far post. Chelsea has clearly made a long-term investment in him. Even if the transfer fee was high, his technical ability, composure, and tactical intelligence make him a smart and promising addition for the future.

Figure 6: Jorrel Hato Touch Heatmap with Key Passes, Assists, and Shots, Dutch Eredivisie 2024/25

🇳🇱 Antoni Milambo → Feyenoord to Brentford 20 million € 💶

Antoni-Djibu Milambo, a product of the Feyenoord academy, made his professional debut in August 2021 in a 3-0 UEFA Europa Conference League victory over Swiss side Luzern. At just 16 years and 131 days, he became Feyenoord’s youngest-ever player, surpassing Georginio Wijnaldum, and immediately grabbed attention with his elegant ball control and dribbling ability. Comfortable in fast combinations and quick passing sequences, he remains calm and composed around the box. Last season, he played 42 games (2,508 minutes), scoring 7 goals and providing 6 assists.

Beyond his attacking qualities, his energy in pressing and winning the ball, along with solid defensive stats, suggests he could be deployed in roles we haven’t seen at Feyenoord, potentially giving Brentford more tactical options. Watching how the new coach, Keith Andrews, integrates Milambo and shapes his role in the team would be quite interesting.

In short, with his one-on-one ability, relentless energy in pressing and ball recovery, Antoni Milambo is one of the promising players to keep an eye on this season. His versatility and tactical intelligence make him a potential talent capable of impacting games at both ends of the pitch.

Figure 7: Antoni Milambo Assists and Goal-Creating Actions (GCA) Among U21 Midfielders, Top 14 European Leagues

🇷🇸 Djordje Petrovic → Chelsea to Bournemouth 28.90 million € 💶

Bournemouth, having lost most of their key defensive players from last season, including Kepa Arrizabalaga, Dean Hujisen, Milos Kerkez, and Ilya Zabarnyi, aimed to secure their goalkeeping position with the safest possible transfer. They chose reliability over risk, prioritising a proven goalkeeper for the backline. Đorđe Petrović had an outstanding loan season at Strasbourg under manager Liam Rosenior. He was named player of the season as Strasbourg finished seventh in Ligue 1 and qualified for the Europa Conference League.

In the 2024-25 Ligue 1 season, Petrović ranked in the 82nd percentile for post-shot xG minus goals allowed (+0.32), in the 98th percentile for save percentage (78.9%), and in the 78th percentile for clean sheet rate (0.32) among Ligue 1 goalkeepers. Iraola’s system, which mixes high pressing with controlled possession, demands a goalkeeper comfortable with the ball at his feet. Petrović’s Ligue 1-leading passing stats make him a perfect fit, allowing Bournemouth to bypass opposition presses and begin attacks with precise distribution.

With his penalty-saving expertise, international experience, and ability to outperform expectations, Petrović is likely to become a fan favorite at Vitality Stadium. As Bournemouth aim to compete in the Premier League and avoid a relegation scrap, Petrović’s gloves will be their first line of defense.

Figure 8: Đorđe Petrović Touch Heatmap, Progressive Passes (50m+), and Clearances | Ligue 1 2024/25 Season

🇮🇹 Giovanni Leon → Parma to Liverpool 31 million € 💶

At only 16 years and three months, the Italian centre-back made his professional debut for Serie C club Padova, becoming the youngest player to feature in Italy’s 2022-23 season. Next season, he was on loan to Serie B side Sampdoria under the guidance of Andrea Pirlo. He played in 12 matches, but Sampdoria lost the Play-off game against Palermo at the end of the season. Financial struggles and a playoff loss forced Sampdoria to part ways with one of the country's brightest prospects.

Last season Inter and Juventus showed interest but it was the freshly promoted Serie B champions Parma who sealed the deal by paying €5 million plus up to €3.5 million in add-ons for his signature. Giovanni Leoni played 17 games at Parma last season. His height and strength make him a formidable presence in both boxes. He’s comfortable playing from the back, aligning with Arne Slot's possession-based approach. Despite his youth, Leoni possesses remarkable maturity, remaining calm under pressure and contributing to his team's defensive solidity.

The data we have makes it difficult to make a definitive judgment about Leoni, but his young age, physical presence, and raw skills suggest that Liverpool has made another long-term investment with this transfer.

🇪🇸 🇨🇴 Cristhian Mosquera → Valencia to Arsenal 15 million € 💶

Cristhian Mosquera might just be one of the smartest low-noise deals of the summer. At just 20, the 1.91 m Spanish-Colombian centre-back has already made 80+ senior appearances, playing all but one La Liga game last season and winning Olympic gold with Spain U23s. A Golden Boy nominee, he’s been a rock in one of Spain’s most disciplined defences.

No U21 player in Europe’s top five leagues has played more minutes (6,394) or made more appearances (73) since the start of 2023–24 than Cristhian Mosquera. At just 20, he has been Valencia’s defensive anchor, playing both between right and left centre-back but excelling most on the right side in a 4-4-2. He demonstrates composure under pressure, timing his interventions well and reading the game effectively.

He is also strong in the air as he is composed on the ball. Ranking in the upper percentiles for progressive passing while also leading his age group in clearances and blocks, he’s the rare young defender who can both build from deep and shut things down under pressure. Arsenal’s move for around £15m isn’t a gamble; it’s calculated squad architecture, giving Mikel Arteta a versatile defender who can back up Saliba and Gabriel or slot into a back three.

He does not arrive to fireworks or hype videos, but like all elite defenders, you notice him most when nothing happens. For a team chasing trophies, that’s gold

Figure 9: Cristhian Mosquera Touch Heatmap, Big Chances Created and Ball Recoveries, La Liga 2024/25 Season

That’s all from us.🫡 Have a great week, and we’ll be back with more to share very soon.