Underrated summer signings to watch in the 2022/23 season

There are plenty of big names to that are part of the summer signings for 2022/23. The busy transfer window saw billions of dollars exchanged. Therefore, it is easy to lose track of all the switches.

It is easy to recall major names and transfers like Haaland, Núñez, and Lewandowski, all which made blockbuster moves. However, some of the lower-profile transfers fly under the radar.

Of course, it is impossible to predict the future. That being said, here are a couple of those quieter names to keep an eye out for this season.

Underrated summer signings entering 2022/23

Sven Botman (Lille to Newcastle, $40 million)

In light of Newcastle’s takeover from the Saudi Public Investment Fund, the Magpies continue their impressive recruitment. The 22-year-old center-back had interest from other clubs, including AC Milan. This is a hefty fee, but the young defender proved his worth for Lille over the last couple of seasons. In fact, he held the title for best success rate in duels in Ligue 1 for the 2020/21 season. That season, Botman played a key role in helping Lille to the Ligue 1 title. Moreover, Botman played in 37 of Lille’s 38 matches that season, Lille conceded just 23 goals.

Newcastle hopes to continue its upwards trajectory in hopes of achieving their European ambitions. Eddie Howe’s side seems like a perfect fit for the Dutchman. His huge aerial prowess serves the side’s tactics well. Then, his tactical intelligence and physical toolkit play a critical role to his transition to the Premier League. Newcastle is a common dark horse for a big jump in Premier League placement. Botman could be an integral summer signing for Newcastle’s 2022/23 season.

Dodo (Shakhtar Donetsk to Fiorentina, $16 million)

The Brazilian fullback was a frequent name featured in the rumor mill. Impressive performances in the UEFA Champions League caught the eyes of some of Europe’s biggest clubs. In 52 matches in the Ukrainian Premier League, the young Brazilian contributed to 15 goals. As a fullback, this is certainly an impressive tally. His rapid pace and forward runs is surely an asset to Vincenzo Italiano’s side. Moreover, his defensive prowess is also not be understated.

The exit of Odriozola left a big gap in La Viola’s side. However, for just however for just $20m after bonuses, Dodo is an incredible coup for Fiorentina.

Luka Jović (Real Madrid to Fiorentina, free transfer)

Yet another signing by Fiorentina has to be highlighted. Their business this summer is outstanding on paper. Luka Jović certainly did not set the Bernabéu alight in his time in Madrid. However, his past quality is undeniable. Few forget the Serbian’s magical 18/19 season. His 27 goals in all competitions led Frankfurt all the way to the semifinals of the Europa League.

The striker showed sporadic sparks of this magic over the past couple seasons. Yet, La Viola hope that consistent game-time directly contributes to more consistency in his performances. Regardless of the outcome, on paper this deal seems like a no-brainer for Fiorentina. In the deal, Real Madrid pays half the Serbian’s wages. It also waived any transfer fee.

Jovic scored four goals in his debut for Fiorentina. Clearly, exciting times are ahead for the rest of Italiano’s men.

Nahuel Molina (Udinese to Atlético Madrid, $22 million)

The Argentine fullback was the highest scoring defender in the top-five leagues last season. At just 24, the right back scored seven goals and contributed a further two assists for Udinese last season. Playing a critical role in the side’s survival, his bombing runs down the right-hand side will be a useful asset for Diego Simeone’s side, particularly in the counter attack.

Atlético beat many other suitors to the signature. The undisclosed fee hovers in the $22 million range. Plus, midfielder Nehuén Pérez goes in the other direction. The Argentine international hopes to star under Simeone’s guidance ahead of the World Cup. Linking up with former Udinese captain and Argentine compatriot Rodrigo De Paul will further ease Molina’s transition to Atlético Madrid.

Corentin Tolisso (Bayern Munich to Lyon, free transfer)

Tolisso’s time at Bayern was not as star-studded as many had expected. Even then, the Frenchman was a very important squad player for the German side. Unable to secure a starting spot due to constant injury setbacks, the Frenchman will hope that a return to his boyhood club will see a lift in his performances. Leaving Lyon for Bayern 5 years ago for a whopping $46 million, Tolisso was able to rack up 14 trophies for the Bavarian side.

Lyon fans will be ecstatic to see the return of the midfielder, who joins striker Alexandre Lacazette in what has been a nostalgic summer for the French side. With Nicolás Tagliafico also joining for a measly $5 million this week, Lyon looks to return to the Champions League places. Anything is better than the disappointing 2021/22 campaign.

Nico Schlotterbeck (Freiburg to Borussia Dortmund, $22 million)

Schlotterbeck’s signing certainly made waves in German media. However, as the defender is relatively unknown internationally, there is insufficient coverage on his transfer. The 22-year-old defender tied for the highest percentage of duels won this season with compatriot (and new teammate) Niklas Süle. The German duo will look to shore up Dortmund’s defence, which has been at the heart of their woes the past few seasons.

For just $22m, Dortmund secured one of, if not the, biggest German talents at the position. With Matthijs de Ligt signing for rivals Bayern Munich, Der Klassiker will be a defensive spectacle filled with young talent across the board.

PHOTO: Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images