One of the greatest January transfer windows came and passed with some record-breaking signings. Chelsea has spent more money than all other major leagues put together. They finally went ahead and broke the bank by bringing in Enzo Fernandez, making him the second most expensive January signing of all time, just behind Philippe Coutinho.
The Premier League traditionally spent the most. English clubs added the most quality and high-profile signings with hopes of changing their domestic title race as well as European conquests.
The Premier League Leading the January Transfer Charge
Chelsea has strengthened their squad with no less than eight players with a combined spend of £328m. The most notable additions are Enzo Fernandez and Mykhaylo Mudryk. Being that these are very young players that still need to show their worth on the biggest stage, we still need to wait and see if all those expenses are going to pay off.
Liverpool added Cody Gakpo, while Arsenal strengthened their attack with the inclusion of Leandro Trossard. But the most interesting transfer that flew under many people’s radar is Newcastle’s addition of Anthony Gordon, who came in from Everton. He is a young player who might greatly contribute to Eddie Howe’s system.
Switching Allegiances to Germany
The deal that caught everyone by surprise was Joao Cancelo quitting on Manchester City half-season and moving to Bayern Munich. It didn’t seem like much when he failed to feature in Pep’s starting lineup after the half-season break. But him being subbed off at halftime in the game against West Ham did raise some eyebrows.
It culminated in Cancelo demanding to leave and Bayern swooping in to make the most of the situation. Bayern strengthened their back line by also adding Daley Blind from Ajax on a free. Goalkeeper Yan Sommer was brought from rivals M’gladbach to replace the injured Manuel Neuer.
All Quiet in Serie A
More action was expected from Italian clubs, but the 2023 January transfer window was the quietest one since 2006. None of the Italian giants made a move, nor have they sold any players. The only move to note was Fiorentina making Antonin Barak’s loan permanent. At the same time, Lazio grabbed defender Luca Pellegrini on loan.
Napoli decided to keep the core of the team intact and push on for their first Serie A title in 32 years. It makes perfect sense not to break the harmony of the team at this point of the season.
No Action in Spain
Real Madrid was the first one to make it public that they are not bringing in any new players. On the other hand, there have been a lot of rumours around Barcelona. It eventually all fell apart. Blaugrana only managed to extend Gavi’s contract, which is exceptional business on their part.
Atletico Madrid loaned Matt Doherty from Tottenham. While Benfica made a loan deal with Celta Vigo, allowing them the rights to Haris Seferovic till the end of the season.
