We are just over three weeks away from the 2023-24 Championship getting underway and there have already been some eye-catching transfers made this summer ahead of what is tipped to be the most competitive second-tier season in years.
There has been a need more than ever for every club to strengthen because it looks like it could be just as challenging to stay in the division as it is to get promoted from it. Some teams are in a rhythm with their signings while others are yet to get going, but here are some of the most exciting additions that have been confirmed so far.
Ellis Simms - Coventry City
Losing the influence of star striker Victor Gyokores this summer was always going to be difficult for Coventry. The Swedish forward is about to be unveiled as a Sporting CP player for around £20.5 million but the Sky Blues have already procured his replacement by bringing in Ellis Simms from Everton on a deal rising to £8m. Simms is athletic, young and has a taste for the Championship after featuring for Sunderland last year. He is a great long-term investment for Coventry, who will be looking for a top-six finish again this term.
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Conor Coady - Leicester City
Parachute payments are a wonderful thing for those relegated from the Premier League. Conor Coady is an excellent addition for Leicester City at the start of a much-needed rebuild. The England international will bring leadership and promotion-winning experience with Wolverhampton Wanderers to Enzo Maresca’s side as they seek an instant return to the top flight. His skills and character will be of great benefit at the King Power Stadium this term.
Harry Winks - Leicester City
The Foxes also signed Harry Winks from Tottenham Hotspur for a reported £10m. The midfielder is in need of reigniting his career in England and a new-look Leicester could be the best place to do it. Winks has plenty of experience at Premier League level, as well as
featuring for the England national team. He didn’t do too badly on his loan spell at Sampdoria in 2022-23, but now he is back in the UK with a point to prove and a blank slate. On paper he should tear up the Championship.
Ryan Manning - Southampton
Another full-back who gave a good account of himself at Swansea City is Ryan Manning. The Irish defender has followed Russell Martin to St Mary’s on a free transfer and it’s unquestionably one of the best bits of business we’ll see this summer. Last term, Manning scored five goals and provided 10 assists from left-back in the league, which is just remarkable for a defender.
Ethan Laird - Birmingham City
As a new era dawns at Birmingham City with Tom Wagner’s takeover going through on Thursday, the Blues have made some inspiring signings. Full-back Ethan Laird is the most stirring of the lot because of the impact he has had in the second tier over the past two seasons with Swansea City, AFC Bournemouth and Queens Park Rangers. He has joined Birmingham from Manchester United for less than £1m, which could be the bargain of the season.
Jason Knight - Bristol City
Jason Knight has been making a good impression in senior football with Derby County in recent years and his £2m move to Bristol City could prove to be a snip down the line. The Irish midfielder is very technically gifted and likes to make an impact in both halves of the pitch. The Robins are also one of the clubs who have been conducting some smart business this summer and some are tipping them to have a fruitful campaign.
