As the 2024/25 Premier League season nears its end, the fate of three clubs is already sealed. Leicester City and Southampton have officially dropped, while Ipswich Town, trailing safety by 15 points with only five games to play, are effectively relegated. Between them, these clubs have managed just 10 wins in the league — a combined reflection of a forgettable campaign. Yet, amid the disappointment, several players have emerged as potential summer targets for Premier League teams looking to bolster their squads.

Southampton: Talent Amid Turmoil

Despite finishing near the foot of the table, Southampton have several standout performers who have caught the attention of top-flight clubs.

Mateus Fernandes, a 20-year-old Portuguese midfielder, joined from Sporting last summer and has quickly adapted to the pace of Premier League football. Averaging 2.8 tackles, 1.5 dribbles, and 1.1 key passes per 90 minutes, Fernandes has proven himself a versatile and resilient presence in the midfield — no small feat in a struggling side.

Tyler Dibling is another bright prospect. The 19-year-old winger has attracted significant attention, with Southampton slapping a bold £100 million price tag on him. While that figure may be exaggerated, interest in the England youth international is very real. With 34 appearances and four goals this season, Dibling has showcased his potential in glimpses, and clubs are likely to test Southampton’s resolve in the summer.

Meanwhile, Aaron Ramsdale finds himself relegated for the third time in his career. Yet the England goalkeeper has had a strong season individually, making 106 saves — the third most in the league. Ramsdale’s experience and shot-stopping ability make him an obvious target for promoted or mid-table Premier League sides, with Leeds already being linked.

Kyle Walker-Peters is almost certain to move on. With his contract expiring in the summer, the 28-year-old full-back will be one of the most in-demand free agents in the league. Equally comfortable on either side of the defense and boasting a 90.5% pass completion rate, he’s a tidy, intelligent player. Tottenham, West Ham, Wolves, and Fulham are all reportedly interested.

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Leicester City: Quality in the Shadows

Leicester’s drop into the Championship comes just eight years after their fairytale title win, and while the team underperformed, some individuals continued to shine.

Mads Hermansen, the Danish goalkeeper, was a standout performer even as the club slid toward relegation. His recent display against Liverpool, where he earned a spot in the Premier League team of the week, underscores his talent. Hermansen ranks fourth in the league for saves and would be an astute signing for any club needing a confident, athletic keeper.

In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi remains a formidable presence when fit. Despite battling injuries, the Nigerian averaged 3.3 tackles per 90 minutes this season, placing him among the league’s best ball-winners. At 28, Ndidi’s best years might still be ahead of him, and with his experience, he could be a valuable squad addition for clubs seeking steel in the middle.

Bilal El Khannouss has been Leicester’s most consistent performer in an otherwise bleak campaign. Signed last summer for £21 million, the 21-year-old Moroccan international — who already boasts a World Cup semi-final and Olympic bronze medal — has impressed with his composure and creativity. His stats (2 goals, 2 assists) don’t tell the whole story. Arsenal are reportedly among the clubs monitoring him.

On the flanks, Abdul Fatawu showed enormous promise before a knee injury curtailed his season. His 4.5 successful dribbles per game put him among the league’s best dribblers in the early months. Though his injury may deter some suitors, others will be intrigued by his potential and raw talent.

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Ipswich Town: Surprise Gems

Ipswich’s return to the Premier League was short-lived, but a few of their players have shown they belong at a higher level.

Liam Delap, once written off after underwhelming Championship spells, has been a bright spark for Ipswich. His return of 12 goals and 2 assists has silenced critics, and with a £30 million release clause, Premier League clubs are already circling. Physical, direct, and industrious, Delap looks set for a quick return to the top flight.

Leif Davis, despite a costly red card against Arsenal, has had an excellent season from left-back. His 54 key passes are the most by any defender in the league — evidence of his attacking flair and delivery. For teams in search of a progressive full-back, Davis represents great value.

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Conclusion

While Leicester, Southampton, and Ipswich prepare for life in the Championship, their squads won’t remain untouched for long. Players like Fernandes, El Khannouss, Dibling, and Delap have shown enough quality to stay in the Premier League, even if their clubs couldn’t. As the summer window approaches, expect a scramble among top-flight clubs to secure these relegated gems — proof that even in failure, talent can shine.