EPL Transfer News: Charlie Adam and 6 Other Bargains of the Summer so Far

The first kick-off of the Premier League season is still over a month away, but that hasn't meant that the summer transfer window is yet to have kicked into life.

Over £130 million has already been spent by EPL clubs as they restructure their squads for the start of the new season.

Sunderland have been the most active side so far, strengthening their team with no less than nine signings, whilst reigning league champions Manchester United have been the country's biggest spenders with a total bill of around £50 million for their three recruits.

There are sure to be plenty of moves still to come before the window closes on the 31st August, but which signings look like they could be the best value-for-money so far?

7. Ali Al-Habsi

After spending last season on loan at the DW Stadium, goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi has now signed permanently with Wigan Athletic from Bolton Wanderers, for a fee of £4 million.

The first Omani to play in the Premier League, Al-Habsi was hugely impressive for Wigan last season, making many crucial saves that helped the club to narrowly avoid relegation to the Championship. Despite only playing for the club on loan, he was named as Wigan's Player of the Season for his outstanding performances, making it an easy decision for manager Roberto Martinez to sign him permanently.

Al-Habsi may be Wigan's most expensive keeper ever, but whilst their record signing Mauro Boselli turned out to be a huge flop after costing the club £6.5 million last summer, this year the Latics' money looks to have been spent much more wisely. They have bought a player who has already been a great success at the club.

6. Brad Friedel

Friedel has been one of the most consistent goalkeepers in Premier League history over the last ten seasons.

At the age of 40, some might question whether the American still has what it takes to play at the highest level. However, having been signed by Tottenham on a free transfer after his Aston Villa contract expired, there is not much of a risk in the deal.

Friedel holds the record for the highest number of consecutive Premier League appearances in the competition's history (275). The last time he missed a league game was in the 2003-04 season when he was at Blackburn Rovers. Although he will face stiff competition from Heurelho Gomes for the number one jersey at Spurs, the Brazilian has been very inconsistent during his time at White Hart Lane, which could improve Friedel's chances of being featured in the starting 11 at Spurs.

For one of the Premier League's best keepers ever, this signing looks like a shrewd piece of business from Harry Redknapp's team.

5. Sebastien Larsson

One of eight summer signings so far at Sunderland, Larsson has also been signed on a free transfer as a result of the Bosman ruling.

Despite Birmingham City's relegation from the Premier League last season, Larsson was a key member of the starting 11 during his five seasons at the club.

He is probably most renowned for his expertise at set pieces. He scored three direct free kicks last season and also provided a number of assists from corners, including a delivery that led to Nicola Zigic opening the scoring against Arsenal in the League Cup final. Birmingham eventually triumphed 2-1 for their first trophy since 1963.

A versatile midfielder, Larsson could prove to be a key addition to Steve Bruce's squad this season.

4. David Vaughan

Charlie Adam may have grabbed the majority of the headlines at Bloomfield Road last season, as Blackpool's fantastic start almost saved them from relegation against all the odds. However, David Vaughan was arguably equally important to the Seasiders' efforts.

Vaughan played a much deeper role than Adam in Blackpool's midfield. He has a similar talent when it comes to passing the ball, which was recognised when he was awarded with the club's Players' Player of the Year Award, ahead of the his midfield partner.

He may not be the biggest name of Sunderland's summer signings, but don't be surprised if it is Vaughan who is featured more prominently than some of the more expensive players next season, despite being brought in on a free transfer.

3. Yohan Cabaye

Arsenal signing Gervinho also played a major part in French side Lille's first League Championship win since 1954. However, his former teammate Yohan Cabaye has been snapped up by Newcastle for much less than the Gunners' new forward.

The French midfielder, who reportedly cost the northern-based club £4.6 million, was instrumental at the club he has played for since he was 12 and won a domestic double last season.

The 25-year-old also made four appearances for his national team in 2010-11 and looks set to have a bright future ahead of him.

Some may have been confused by his choice to leave a team where he would have played Champions League football this season for a mid-table Premier League side, but this only shows what a great coup his signing could be for Newcastle. He is a more than apt replacement for the departing Kevin Nolan.

2. Charlie Adam

Charlie Adam was shortlisted for the PFA Player of the Year last season. His sensational form for Blackpool almost single-handedly steered them clear of relegation. Unfortunately for Adam, even his 12 goals and nine assists couldn't prevent this, as they were relegated on the final day.

A reported fee of £7 million seems great value-for-money. Liverpool have bought one of the best passers in the league, who could provide the creativity needed to allow Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez to flourish next season—allowing Liverpool to mount a serious challenge for the top four and a place in the Champions League.

Aside from his passing, Adam's determination and deadly set-piece deliveries will also aid Liverpool next season. If his performances match the ones that the Scotsman gave for Blackpool, he could just prove to be the signing of the summer.

1. Phil Jones

As the most expensive signing on this list, some might be surprised that I went for Phil Jones as the best bargain of the summer so far—despite his £16.5 million price tag.

The commanding centre back, who captained England U21s at the European Championships last month despite being only 19 years of age, was a regular starter for Blackburn Rovers last season and is also capable of playing in a holding midfield role.

As a Chelsea fan, I was absolutely gutted to hear that Phil Jones had signed for our closest title challengers. Although he may not start for Manchester United too often next season, he looks destined for great things. Comparisons are already being drawn between him and current England captain, John Terry.

In my opinion, Jones is the bargain of the summer so far. If Jones becomes a regular in the England and Manchester United starting 11—which I am sure he will within three or four years time—his £16.5 million transfer may seem like a bargain when it is considered that Rio Ferdinand cost United double that figure nine years ago.