Best Premier League Signings of 2025-26: Xhaka & Zubimendi Shine

Granit Xhaka, Martin Zubimendi, and the 10 Best Premier League Signings of 2025-26

As the 2025-26 Premier League season reaches its halfway point, excitement and intrigue have been at an all-time high. Granit Xhaka, Martin Zubimendi, and an impressive array of new faces have set the league alight following a record-breaking summer transfer window, where English clubs spent over £3 billion on fresh talent. Let’s take an in-depth look at the ten best Premier League signings of the campaign so far, analyzing their impact and why these moves are already being hailed as masterstrokes.

Granit Xhaka: Sunderland’s Inspirational Leader

Granit Xhaka has arguably been the standout signing this season. Arriving at Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen for £17 million, the Swiss midfielder immediately took the captain’s armband and transformed the Black Cats’ midfield. Xhaka’s leadership, tactical awareness, and tireless work rate have galvanized Sunderland, who are now genuine contenders for a top-half finish. He leads the team in assists, chances created, passes, and duels won, proving age is just a number at 33.

Martin Zubimendi: Arsenal’s Midfield Maestro

Martin Zubimendi’s £60 million arrival at Arsenal from Real Sociedad has been quietly revolutionary. While his personal stats may not leap off the page, his calming presence has allowed Declan Rice to flourish in a new box-to-box role. Zubimendi’s blend of defensive solidity and sharp distribution has created balance in Mikel Arteta’s midfield, pushing the Gunners firmly into title contention. His seamless adaptation to English football suggests Arsenal have unearthed a long-term linchpin.

Liverpool’s Big Spenders and the Rise of Hugo Ekitike

Liverpool grabbed headlines with the record-breaking signings of Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, but it’s Hugo Ekitike who has made the biggest splash at Anfield. Signed for £79 million, the French striker has netted eight league goals—only trailing Erling Haaland and Igor Thiago. Ekitike’s determination and consistency have made him a rare bright spot in a challenging season for the Reds, especially as big-money arrivals Wirtz and Isak continue to settle.

Manchester City’s Creative Spark: Rayan Cherki

Despite a stop-start introduction due to injury and Pep Guardiola’s rotation, Rayan Cherki has already amassed six assists for Manchester City. The £37 million signing’s flair and vision have elevated City’s attacking play, with Cherki creating the most chances per 90 minutes in the league. His seven goal involvements in limited minutes signal a bright second half to come.

Jordan Henderson: Brentford’s Surprising Engine

Returning to the Premier League on a free transfer, Jordan Henderson has helped Brentford defy the odds. The experienced midfielder has played a key role in stabilizing the Bees, who were early relegation candidates. Henderson’s leadership and eye for a pass have yielded three assists and a vital goal, proving he still has much to offer at 35.

Defensive Bargains: Mukiele, Thiaw & Roefs Impress

Several lower-profile defensive signings have provided exceptional value. Sunderland’s Nordi Mukiele (£12m) has been a cornerstone of their resilient backline, excelling across defensive metrics and chipping in with crucial goals and assists. Newcastle’s Malick Thiaw (£35m) arrived under the radar but has swiftly become a mainstay, helping the Magpies boast one of the league’s best defenses. Meanwhile, Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs (£9.5m) leads the league in saves and save percentage, playing a pivotal role in their European push.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall: Everton’s Creative Force

Everton’s £28 million acquisition of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has injected much-needed dynamism into their midfield. The Englishman’s energy and creativity have transformed Everton’s attacking play, highlighted by a memorable solo goal in their victory at Old Trafford.

Nick Woltemade: Newcastle’s New Striking Sensation

Replacing Isak was no easy task, but Nick Woltemade’s £69 million move from Stuttgart has paid immediate dividends. The tall German striker has scored consistently and impressed with his hold-up play, becoming a cult hero on Tyneside.

Premier League Transfer Trends: Value Over Price?

The 2025-26 season has proven that spending big doesn’t guarantee instant success. While headline-grabbing transfers dominate the news, several teams have found more value in smart, targeted signings. Sunderland’s shrewd recruitment has been central to their overachievement, while established clubs have benefited from players who fit their tactical systems rather than just their price tags.

Looking Ahead: Who Will Finish Strongest?

With half the season still to play, the influence of these signings will only grow. Clubs like Arsenal and Sunderland seem poised for even greater heights, while Liverpool and Manchester City hope their marquee names find top form. For more news and ongoing updates throughout the season, visit for more news.

Opinion: Why This Transfer Window Raised the Bar

The 2025-26 transfer window stands out not just for its record spending but for the impact of smarter recruitment. Granit Xhaka and Martin Zubimendi exemplify how the right blend of experience, leadership, and tactical fit can change a club’s fortunes. As teams look to build on these foundations, fans can expect even more drama and quality in the months ahead.