5 Best Football Transfer Bargains of the 2018/19 Season so far

Rodri (Atletico Madrid), $18 million

Real Madrid v Atletico Madrid - UEFA Super Cup

Costing just $18 million, midfielder Rodri was an astute signing for Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid this summer. In today's hyper-inflated market which saw Arsenal spend $26.5 million on Uruguayan Lucas Torriera, Bournemouth spend $25 million on Colombian Jefferson Lerma and Manchester United pay an astronomical $43.7 million on Fred), $18 million on a talented 22-year old midfielder with loads of La Liga experience seems pretty cheap.

Since his move to Estadio Wanda Metropolitano Rodri has filled the void left by club legend Gabi. who moved to Qatar for Al Sadd SC. In 11 appearances so far, Rodri has 3.2 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, 2 clearances and 0.6 key passes per game with an immense 91.9% pass accuracy rate. Having already scored a goal for his new club in their 3-2 win against Athletic Club de Bilbao, Rodri has hit the ground running in no time. His move to Atletico Madrid has only strengthened his case for a permanent Spain call-up.

At 22 years of age, the 6'4-tall central midfielder has his entire career ahead of him. His tenacity and intense work-rate have seen him become a fan favorite and a key member in Diego Simeone's side. At $18 million he's certainly one of this season's bargains.

Who did I forget!? Who's made their club's look like transfer market geniuses? Let me know in the comments below! Thank you for reading!!!