Ten Championship Players Premier League Clubs Should Target

The Championship has long been a fertile ground for developing talent that goes on to play at the highest levels of football, with many top European players having started in England`s second division.

Notable examples include Jude and Jobe Bellingham, who began their careers at Birmingham City in the Championship, and Sporting Lisbon`s prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres, who honed his skills at Coventry City.

Here, we look at ten players that Premier League clubs should consider signing during this summer transfer window.

Borja Sainz (24) – Norwich City

The 2024/25 season marked a significant breakthrough for Borja Sainz. Previously showing promise but not consistently starring for a mid-table Norwich City, he delivered an impressive return of 18 goals and four assists – a substantial improvement on his six goals the season before. While 15 of his goals came before December, his overall contribution demonstrated the quality required for the Premier League.

Gustavo Hamer (28) – Sheffield United

Having joined Sheffield United at the start of the 2023/24 season, many felt Hamer`s performances warranted a return to the top flight immediately after the Blades` relegation. However, he remained and was subsequently named Championship Player of the Season. His season was productive offensively, and his exceptional ball-carrying ability, which was evident during his single Premier League season, remains a key strength. His future at Bramall Lane this summer is currently uncertain.

Finn Azaz (24) – Middlesbrough

Finn Azaz has been a consistent performer in the Championship for the last two seasons, progressing well under former manager Michael Carrick. A move to the Premier League this transfer window seems likely, with Crystal Palace among several top-flight clubs reportedly interested in the Republic of Ireland international. Primarily a central midfielder, Azaz is also capable of playing on the left flank. His versatility and ability to regain possession high up the pitch are notable qualities.

Tom Fellows (21) – West Bromwich Albion

At just 21, England Under-21 international Tom Fellows is the youngest player featured and finished the 2024/25 season as the Championship`s leading assist provider with 14. While new West Brom manager Ryan Mason will undoubtedly want to retain the talented winger, Everton are reportedly strong contenders for his signature. Fellows also excelled statistically, ranking 5th in the Championship for progressive carries (156) and making 65 carries into the opposition penalty area.

Hayden Hackney (22) – Middlesbrough

Another Middlesbrough player who impressed under Michael Carrick, Hayden Hackney has demonstrated remarkable consistency over the past two campaigns. Primarily a defensive midfielder, the 22-year-old contributed five goals and three assists as Boro narrowly missed the play-offs. Statistically, Hackney also stood out defensively, winning 217 duels and making 281 ball recoveries. His passing range is notable too, with 440 progressive passes – a figure surpassing many in top European leagues, including Joshua Kimmich.

Vinicius Souza (26) – Sheffield United

Vinicius Souza is a formidable midfielder whose physicality and defensive prowess often made him appear a cut above the Championship level. While not focused on attacking, Souza served as a crucial anchor in Sheffield United`s midfield. The Brazilian registered 73 tackles, won 230 duels, and succeeded in 61.3% of his aerial battles during a season where the Blades just missed out on the play-offs. Reports suggest the 26-year-old is looking for a move away this summer.

Milan van Ewijk (24) – Coventry City

Milan van Ewijk proved a constant presence for Coventry City as they reached the play-offs, starting 45 matches. Known for his strong tackling and surprising attacking contributions from right back, the Dutchman created 54 chances – a high figure for a fullback – and frequently advanced into the opponent`s box. His pace is a significant asset, aiding his defensive recovery work, highlighted by his 199 ball recoveries. The 24-year-old could be an excellent addition for newly promoted Premier League teams.

Giorgi Chakvetadze (25) – Watford

Sometimes statistics don`t fully reflect a player`s impact, and that seems true for Giorgi Chakvetadze. A standout performer for Georgia during their EURO 2024 quarter-final run, he also became a key player for Watford under Tom Cleverley. The 25-year-old`s superb dribbling made him very difficult to contain, completing 65 dribbles and winning 51 fouls. Despite creating 73 chances for teammates, his assist tally finished at just six. Watford will face a challenge to keep their creative midfielder this summer.

Anel Ahmedhodžić (26) – Sheffield United

The third Sheffield United player featured, Anel Ahmedhodžić, has proven his capability in both the Premier League and Championship. He was integral to a strong Blades defence that finished third in the league. The Bosnian centre-back boasts impressive defensive statistics, winning 81.1% of his tackles and making 40 interceptions. The 26-year-old is another linked with a potential departure, with Ipswich, Napoli, and Atalanta among the clubs reportedly interested.

Jack Rudoni (24) – Coventry City

Signed last summer as a replacement for Callum O’Hare, Jack Rudoni rewarded Coventry City`s confidence with nine goals and 12 assists. He led the Championship in crosses (289) and was highly effective with 78 key passes, a figure bettered by only three other players. Rudoni also demonstrated solid defensive work, making 146 ball recoveries and winning 50% of his aerial duels. Newcastle and Leeds are rumoured to be interested in signing the 24-year-old.