Top 10 Like A New Signing Contenders for the 2026/27 Season Featuring Stars from Man United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Spurs
Summer usually brings fresh transfers and the hope they spark, often misplaced. Yet nothing matches the thrill of a 'Like A New Signing'—players returning from injury or loan spells who could unexpectedly boost their clubs.
This list highlights ten players from top clubs who might just revive their careers and impact their teams in 2026/27.
10) Fabio Carvalho (Brentford)
The former Liverpool winger suffered an ACL injury last November after only six Premier League appearances. He’s recently made his comeback in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Brentford's B team, reminding fans that even small steps count.
9) Giovanni Leoni (Liverpool)
Liverpool’s defense faces challenges with departures and injuries. Leoni, signed as Virgil van Dijk’s potential successor, had a season-ending knee injury on his debut but is now training solo, eyeing a September return, a year after his tough start.
8) Stefanos Tzimas (Brighton)
After a £21m move from Germany, Tzimas showed promise but tore his ACL on his first Premier League start. Now back in training, he could help fill the gap left by Danny Welbeck’s departure to Chelsea, bringing energy and goals to Brighton.
7) Levi Colwill (Chelsea)
Chelsea’s defensive struggles in 25/26 were severe, partly due to injuries like Colwill’s. His return late in the season offered hope with glimpses of stability. With a new manager onboard, Chelsea’s blend of new signings and returning players like Colwill could change their fortunes.
6) Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United)
De Ligt played the first 13 games last season before a back issue sidelined him for surgery. Since then, much has changed at United. Training again and catching eyes in Ireland, he’s a key figure who could feel like a new signing upon his return.
5) Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham)
Kulusevski’s return from injury would be a major boost for Spurs’ fragile attack. Though sidelined for over a year, recent reports hint he’s back in training. Coach Roberto De Zerbi has expressed cautious optimism about his availability this season.
4) Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace)
Doucoure epitomizes the Like A New Signing story. Once Crystal Palace’s player of the year in 2022/23, injuries have limited him to just 13 Premier League appearances since late 2023. Pre-season signs suggest he could soon inject fresh energy into the squad under new boss Pierre Sage.
3) Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)
Jackson’s status hinges on staying at Chelsea. If he remains, he could shine alongside Cole Palmer, as seen last season. Despite previous struggles, new manager Xabi Alonso is giving him chances in pre-season, suggesting Jackson might rediscover his form.
2) Alexander Isak (Liverpool)
Isak’s first Liverpool season was marred by poor form and injuries, making him feel like a stranger in the team. With a new manager arriving, his fitness and performance could improve dramatically, potentially making him one of the league’s standout strikers.
1) Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)
Rashford tops the list as the ultimate Like A New Signing candidate. After loans and managerial changes, he’s back at Old Trafford ready for a fresh start with squad number 14. His return feels like a genuine second chance both for him and the club.
Players with Like A New Signing Potential for 2026/27
- Fabio Carvalho: Brentford winger returning from ACL injury
- Giovanni Leoni: Liverpool centre-back recovering from knee injury
- Stefanos Tzimas: Brighton forward back after ACL tear
- Levi Colwill: Chelsea defender returning from long-term injury
- Matthijs de Ligt: Manchester United defender recovering from back surgery
- Dejan Kulusevski: Tottenham attacker nearing comeback
- Cheick Doucoure: Crystal Palace midfielder overcoming multiple injuries
- Nicolas Jackson: Chelsea striker aiming to regain form
- Alexander Isak: Liverpool forward battling fitness issues
- Marcus Rashford: Manchester United forward reintegrated after loan spells
