Exequiel PALACIOS

(Bayer Leverkusen)

Leverkusen has long been a destination for ambitious South Americans looking to make a name for themselves in the European game and, following his €22m January transfer from River Plate, Palacios is the latest starlet to demonstrate that ambition.

Linked with a move ever since his starring role in River’s 2018 Libertadores triumph, Real Madrid, Internazionale and Arsenal were among the interested teams, but the central midfielder – who made his Argentina debut in August 2018 – has opted for a club with a track record of signing and developing talent.

Asked if he believes this could be a stepping stone to a bigger team, the 21-year-old said: “That’s one of the reasons why I decided to come here.

“I know that Bayer gives me the basis of taking the next step and that the big clubs are keeping an eye on the players from Bayer.”

DEJAN KULUSEVSKI

(Juventus)

Signed from Atalanta for €35m, the midfielder has returned on loan to Parma until the end of the season.

MERGIM BERISHA

(Red Bull Salzburg)

The Germany under-21 striker was recalled from a loan at SCR Altach to replace Dortmund-bound Erling Haaland.

STRAHINJA PAVLOVIC

(Monaco)

The defender was signed for €10m then re-joined Partizan Belgrade on loan.

JULIAN WEIGL

(Benfica)

Out of favour at Borussia Dortmund, the Germany midfielder joined the Portuguese champions for €20m.

ADIL AOUCHICHE

(Paris Saint-Germain)

The 17-year-old scored his first senior goal in a 6-0 victory over LinasMontlhery in the French Cup.

ALEXANDER NUBEL

(Schalke)

The 23-year-old goalkeeper will join Bayern Munich on a free this summer.