By Nico Lloyd
During every pre-season campaign, fans of European clubs competing in the Champions League eagerly anticipate new signings. Supporters expect their teams to strengthen, as clubs across the continent are constantly seeking improvements to remain competitive in their domestic leagues and meet the high demands of Champions League football.
Of course, clubs in the competition have different objectives. Real Madrid, for instance, will be aiming to lift the trophy for the 16th time, while sides like Frankfurt will be delighted to make it through to the knockout stages. For fans who play the official UEFA Champions League Fantasy Football game and make the most of Champions League bookie offers, there are some strong options to consider backing, especially when factoring in the intriguing new signings made across the competition.
While no signing comes with guarantees, several newcomers have the potential to make a big impact in European football’s most prestigious competition this season. With that in mind, here are five exciting new arrivals to watch in the Champions League this season.
Turkish giants Galatasaray made a statement signing in Victor Osimhen
After being linked with Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester United, many fans expected Victor Osimhen to make a move to English football this season. Instead, the Nigerian striker turned down interest from the Saudi Pro League and made his loan switch from Napoli to Galatasaray permanent in a deal reportedly worth €75million (£65m). During his loan spell last season, Osimhen finished as the Turkish Süper Lig’s top scorer with 26 goals and set a record as the highest scoring foreign player in a single season in Turkey with 37 goals in all competitions. A true game changer for Galatasaray, Osimhen is undoubtedly one to watch in this season’s Champions League.
Liverpool’s move for Florian Wirtz is arguably the deal of the summer
Despite failing to impress on his Premier League debut against Bournemouth, Liverpool appear to have landed the next big thing in Florian Wirtz. The 22 year old, who signed for the Reds from Bayer Leverkusen in a club record £116m deal, is expected to add another dimension to Liverpool’s dangerous attack. Having scored 57 goals in 197 Leverkusen appearances, Wirtz’s move to Liverpool is widely regarded as the biggest signing of the summer, not just because of the fee paid for the German, but due to his undoubted class.
Tijjani Reijnders is a shrewd move by Manchester City
After being named Serie A Midfielder of the Season after scoring 10 league goals for AC Milan in the 2024/25 season, Tijjani Reijnders’ stock rose further. In the end, it was Manchester City who managed to snap the Dutchman up on a five year deal for a reported fee of £46.5m. Capable of dictating proceedings from the midfield engine room and driving forward to create chances for his team mates, Reijnders could be the solution to Manchester City’s evident issues in the midfield area of the pitch last season. Once Rodri returns, the pair could form a formidable partnership.
Trent Alexander Arnold left the Premier League champions to join Los Blancos
Although many Liverpool fans were angry with their homegrown hero for swapping life with the Premier League champions for a move to Real Madrid, every player in world football would struggle to turn down Los Blancos. Teaming up with the likes of Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe, the 26 year old England international departs Anfield having won everything with his boyhood club, including the Champions League in 2019. An assist specialist who can also chip in with goals, Trent Alexander Arnold’s arrival underlines Real Madrid’s immense pulling power. If the Spanish giants go far in the competition, Alexander Arnold is exactly the kind of player capable of delivering match winning moments.
Viktor Gyokeres is capable of firing Arsenal to glory
Finally, after what feels like years of speculation, Viktor Gyokeres has found a new home. The Sporting CP striker’s record in Portugal was astonishing, bagging 29 and then 39 goals in his two Primeira Liga campaigns. Now, with Arsenal finally getting their man for a reported fee of around £64m, the Gunners could see the Swedish goal getter elevate the team’s chances of success this season.
