Premier League Transfer Window Verdict: How Every Club Fared in January
The January transfer window has slammed shut, leaving Premier League clubs with their finalised squads for the remainder of the season. From record-breaking deals to quiet windows, the business conducted across the league paints a varied picture of ambition, necessity, and strategic planning.
Arsenal's Cautious Approach
Arsenal supporters experienced a tense final few days as Mikel Merino's foot injury sparked speculation, but ultimately, no major signings materialised. Deadline-day links to Sandro Tonali and Leon Goretzka came to nothing, and the Gunners missed out on young striker James Wilson to rivals Tottenham. The sole incoming was England Under-19 defender Jaden Dixon from Stoke, while Ethan Nwaneri's loan departure to Marseille raises questions given Merino's two-month absence.
Manchester City's Statement Signings
Pep Guardiola bolstered his squad with a combined £82.5m spend on Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth and Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace. Semenyo has already made an impact with goals, while Guéhi strengthens the defence as City chase multiple trophies. Outgoings included Oscar Bobb to Fulham and Kalvin Phillips' loan to Sheffield United.
Aston Villa's Strategic Reinforcements
Unai Emery focused on bringing back familiar faces, securing Tammy Abraham permanently and Douglas Luiz on loan. The signings of young talents Brian Madjo and Alysson add depth, though the departure of Donyell Malen on loan leaves some uncertainty about Villa's overall strength.
Bournemouth's Record Sale and Replacements
Bournemouth handled the £62.5m sale of Antoine Semenyo smoothly, replacing him with Rayan from Vasco da Gama for £30m, complete with a €100m release clause. Additional signings like Alex Toth and goalkeeper Christos Mandas aim to bolster the squad for the second half of the season.
Other Notable Moves Across the League
Crystal Palace broke their transfer record for Jørgen Strand Larsen, while Tottenham secured Conor Gallagher but lost Brennan Johnson. Liverpool's £60m deal for Jérémy Jacquet highlights long-term planning, and Chelsea had a quiet window with only Mamadou Sarr recalled from loan. Everton managed a loan for Tyrique George after Jack Grealish's injury, and Manchester United made no signings despite earlier links.
Clubs Focusing on Squad Streamlining
Brentford and Brighton prioritised trimming their squads, with Brentford bringing in Kaye Furo and Brighton recalling Matt O'Riley. Burnley added experience with James Ward-Prowse on loan, and Fulham signed Oscar Bobb but missed out on a striker. Leeds' sole addition was Facundo Buonanotte on loan, raising concerns about depth.
Challenges and Disappointments
Newcastle failed to make any signings despite injury woes, while Nottingham Forest added Lorenzo Lucca and Stefan Ortega but missed key targets. Sunderland's business included Nilson Angulo and Melker Ellborg, aiming to replicate last summer's success. West Ham reinforced their attack but struggled defensively, and Wolves' signings like Adam Armstrong suggest preparation for a potential relegation battle.
Overall, the January window saw a mix of big spending, prudent loans, and missed opportunities, setting the stage for a thrilling climax to the Premier League season.
