Álex Baena, Jørgen Strand Larsen & Co. - 10 recent transfers that have gone under the radar

While blockbuster deals dominate the headlines and set social media alight, some other intriguing moves in football often fly quietly under the radar. Beyond the headline-grabbing sagas and record-breaking fees, there’s a layer of transfer business where shrewd clubs can strike gold - signing hidden gems, revitalised veterans, or emerging stars ready for their breakout campaign. As the summer window picks up pace, Transfermarkt has sifted through the recent noise to focus on 10 transfers that may not have made front-page news but could prove to be some of the smartest bits of business this year. These are the deals you might have missed - but shouldn’t ignore.

10 transfers that have gone under the radar

Álex Baena → Atlético Madrid – Fee: €42m

Atlético Madrid made a major statement last week with the €42m signing of Villarreal playmaker Álex Baena. One of LaLiga’s most technically gifted young creators, Baena contributed 10 assists and seven goals in the league last season, and adds flair and vision to Diego Simeone’s side. At just 22 years of age, he also brings long-term value, with his market value having steadily risen over the past two seasons, and currently standing at €55m.

Jørgen Strand Larsen → Wolves – Fee: €27m

After impressing on loan at Molineux last season, Wolves have made Jørgen Strand Larsen’s move from Celta Vigo permanent for €27m. The Norwegian forward netted nine Premier League goals and proved a reliable focal point in attack. His physical style and aerial threat suit the English game, and the fee reflects Wolves’ confidence in the player's long-term development.

Gerson → Zenit – Fee: €25m

Zenit St. Petersburg managed to pull off something of a coup with the €25m acquisition of Brazilian midfielder Gerson from Flamengo. The Brazilian returns to Europe after a previous stint with Marseille, bringing with him valuable South American and European experience. A powerful ball carrier, Gerson fits the bill as a high-impact box-to-box midfielder and immediately becomes the joint most valuable player in the Russian Premier Liga with a market value of €25m.

Samuele Ricci → AC Milan – Fee: €23m

AC Milan have secured one of Serie A’s most promising defensive midfielders in Samuele Ricci from Torino for €23m. The 22-year-old Italy international is known for his tactical intelligence and tidy distribution. Seen as a long-term heir to Milan’s midfield engine room, Ricci adds depth and technical stability as the Rossoneri look to rebuild for a stronger domestic push after a disappointing campaign last term.

Jesús Rodríguez → Como – Fee: €22.5m

In one of the most eye-catching moves in Italy this window, Cesc Fàbregas' Como have splashed €22.5m to land Jesús Rodríguez from Sevilla. The young Spanish winger brings top-flight pedigree and attacking flair to the ambitious Serie A side. Backed by an ambitious ownership group, this signing signals Como’s intent to break into the elite of Italian football.

Jonathan Burkardt → Eintracht Frankfurt – Fee: €21m

 

Eintracht Frankfurt have boosted their attacking options by landing German forward Jonathan Burkardt from Mainz for just €21m despite the player boasting a market value of €35m. The 24-year-old scored 18 Bundesliga goals for Mainz last season - only Harry Kane (26), Serhou Guirassy (21) and Patrick Schick (21) scored more in the division.

Antoni Milambo → Brentford – Fee: €20m

Brentford have added Dutch starlet Antoni Milambo from Feyenoord for €20m in a classic Bees-style move. The 19-year-old attacking midfielder is known for his creativity and composure beyond his years. With Brentford’s strong development record, Milambo could become one of the Premier League’s next breakout stars, and could gain plenty of chances at the west London club with the likes of Bryan Mbeumo expected to leave the club this summer.

Maxim De Cuyper → Brighton – Fee: €20m

Brighton have completed the €20m signing of Belgian full-back Maxim De Cuyper from Club Brugge. A progressive left-back who thrives in build-up play, De Cuyper perfectly fits the Seagulls’ philosophy. At just 23 years old, he offers both immediate quality and future improvement - it could be another clever move from Brighton’s recruitment team.

Kamaldeen Sulemana → Atalanta – Fee: €17m

Ghanaian winger Kamaldeen Sulemana has swapped relegated Southampton for Champions League-bound Atalanta in a €17m deal. Known for his blistering pace and one-on-one ability, Sulemana could provide a new dimension to Atalanta, and links up with former Saints boss Ivan Jurić, who recently took over at the Serie A club. A fresh start in Italy could reignite Sulemana's career trajectory.

Vinícius Souza → Wolfsburg – Fee: €14m

Wolfsburg have strengthened their midfield with the €14m signing of Vini Souza from Sheffield United. Despite the Blades’ failing to get over the line and get promoted, the Brazilian showed flashes of quality as a defensive midfielder with strong ball-winning stats. At 25 years old, Souza will add steel and mobility to Wolfsburg’s midfield core.