The summer transfer window is a time of anticipation and hope for football fans, and the idea of a 'Like A New Signing' is a particularly intriguing concept. It refers to the potential of a player who has been out of action for a while, either due to injury, loan spells, or other circumstances, to become a game-changer for their club. This article explores the top 10 players who could fit this description for the 2026/27 season, with a focus on those who have been out of action for a significant period and could now be a 'new signing' in every sense.
Marcus Rashford (Manchester United): The ultimate 'Like A New Signing' scenario if Rashford returns to Old Trafford. With a new manager in Michael Carrick and a changed squad, Rashford's reintegration seems more likely than ever. His previous loan spells and the current manager's familiarity with him make this a strong possibility.
Alexander Isak (Liverpool): Isak's first season at Liverpool was marred by poor form and injuries. However, with a new manager in Andoni Iraola and a potential change in tactics, Isak could be a 'Like A New Signing'. His Prem-proven status and the club's willingness to invest in him make him a key player to watch.
Giovanni Leoni (Liverpool): Signed last summer as Virgil van Dijk's long-term replacement, Leoni suffered a season-ending knee injury on his debut. Now back in solo training, he could be a 'Like A New Signing' if he can return to action in September, a year after his promising debut.
Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace): Palace's 2022/23 Player of the Year, Doucoure has been out of action for over two years due to injuries. With a new manager in Pierre Sage, Doucoure's return to fitness could be a significant boost for the club.
Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham): Kulusevski's return to training after a 15-month absence due to injury is a positive sign. With Tottenham's midfield and attack in need of reinforcement, Kulusevski's return could be a 'Like A New Signing' energy boost.
Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United): De Ligt's back problem and subsequent surgery kept him out of the rest of the season. With a new manager in Erik ten Hag and a changed squad, De Ligt's return could be a significant addition to United's defense.
Levi Colwill (Chelsea): Colwill's injury-plagued season at Chelsea could be a 'Like A New Signing' if he can return to full fitness. With a new manager in Mauricio Pochettino and a need for defensive reinforcement, Colwill's return could be a game-changer.
Stefanos Tzimas (Brighton): Tzimas' return from injury and a series of eye-catching cameos from the bench could be a 'Like A New Signing' for Brighton. With Danny Welbeck's departure, Tzimas' return could be a significant goal-scoring threat.
Fabio Carvalho (Brentford): Carvalho's return from ACL injury and his recent behind-closed-doors friendly for Brentford's B team could be a 'Like A New Signing'. With a need for a winger, Brentford could benefit from Carvalho's return.
Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea): Jackson's return to fitness and his 'Palmer Connection' with Cole Palmer at Chelsea could be a 'Like A New Signing'. With a new manager in Pochettino and a need for a striker, Jackson's return could be a significant addition to the squad.
These players, with their unique circumstances and potential to become 'Like A New Signing', could be the key to their clubs' success in the 2026/27 season. It's a fascinating concept that adds an extra layer of excitement to the transfer window.
