10 best January transfer signings in Premier League history

These 10 players changed the courses of their clubs' fortunes after signing in fascinating January winter transfers

The January transfer window in the Premier League has a reputation for being a challenging time to secure top signings, yet over the years, it has been the source of some truly transformative deals.

These mid-season moves have often been pivotal in shaping the fortunes of clubs, turning the tide in league races, and even impacting the European football landscape. Let's delve deeper into these top January signings, exploring their impact and the dynamics they brought to their respective clubs.

10. Jermain Defoe (Toronto FC to Sunderland, 2015)

Although Jermain Defoe had multiple successful January moves, his transfer to Sunderland in 2015 was particularly impactful as he scored four crucial goals for the Black Cats.

Defoe's goal-scoring ability played a crucial role in Sunderland's Premier League survival campaigns, as he scored 30 goals in 70 matches in his final two seasons at the club, showcasing his poacher's instincts and his importance in high-pressure situations.

9. Gary Cahill (Bolton to Chelsea, 2012)

Gary Cahill's transfer from Bolton to Chelsea for £7 million was a shrewd piece of business. His reliability, leadership, and defensive acumen were instrumental in Chelsea's domestic and European triumphs, including their Champions League victory in 2012.

Cahill's partnership with John Terry is remembered as the solid defensive foundation that underpinned Chelsea's success during his time at the club between 2012 and 2019.

8. Philippe Coutinho (Inter to Liverpool, 2013)

Signed for a modest £8.5 million, Philippe Coutinho quickly became a key player for Liverpool. His flair, creativity, and ability to score spectacular goals made him a fan favourite.

Coutinho's development at Liverpool led to a significant transfer to Barcelona with a mammoth €135 million deal that made him one of the most expensive players in football history. Incidentally, the move to Barcelona was also a winter transfer, making Coutinho the most expensive January transfer signing of all time.

7. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Dortmund to Arsenal, 2018)

Aubameyang's move to Arsenal for £56 million was a statement of intent from the club. His pace, finishing ability, and flair added a new dimension to Arsenal's attack.

Winning the Golden Boot in his first full season highlighted his quality with 22 goals in 36 Premier League matches and 31 goals in 51 appearances in all competitions.

Aubameyang's performances often lifted the team in crucial moments, making him a pivotal player in Arsenal's setup, before he was rewarded with the team’s captaincy in 2019.

6. Martin Odegaard (Real Madrid to Arsenal, 2021)

After six underwhelming years at Real Madrid where Martin Odegaard suffered under the weight of unfulfilled potential, the Norwegian decided to take a chance on a move to Arsenal in the Premier League that changed his life and the club’s trajectory.

Although the initial move in the winter of 2021 was a loan deal, Odegaard would go on to sign permanently with the Gunners, quickly becoming an integral part of the Arsenal squad.

The former prodigy was quickly thrust into the Arsenal set-up and was named captain of the young Gunners soon after his arrival, eventually leading them to a famous title challenge in the 2022/23 season, where they narrowly lost out to Manchester City.

5. Patrice Evra (Monaco to Manchester United, 2006)

Alongside Vidic, Patrice Evra's move to Manchester United in 2006 significantly bolstered the club's defence. His consistency and offensive contributions from the left-back position were key factors in United's domestic and European successes.

Evra's adaptability and professionalism made him a respected figure in the dressing room and among the club's supporters.

4. Bruno Fernandes (Sporting to Manchester United, 2020)

Bruno Fernandes' transfer for £47 million in 2020 brought a much-needed creative spark to Manchester United's midfield, and his vision, immaculate eye for goal, and leadership qualities have been crucial in United's pursuit of returning to the top of English and European football.

Fernandes's impact was immediate, as he quickly became a fan favourite and a key figure in the team's attacking dynamics, racking up goals and assists at an alarming rate for the opposition.

3. Luis Suarez (Ajax to Liverpool, 2011)

Luis Suarez's arrival from Ajax for £22.5 million marked the beginning of a transformative era for Liverpool's attack. With his tenacity, skill, and unique goal-scoring ability, Suarez became an integral part of the team.

His performances in the 2013/14 season, where he won the Premier League Golden Boot, are right up there with the finest individual performances of the Premier League era.

Suarez' impact extended beyond goals; his energy and competitiveness galvanised the team and the supporters alike, leading Liverpool to a narrow title challenge where they succumbed to a Steven Gerrard slip to lose out to Manchester City.

2. Virgil van Dijk (Southampton to Liverpool, 2018)

The £75 million Liverpool spent on Virgil van Dijk might have raised eyebrows initially, but it proved to be a wise investment. Van Dijk transformed Liverpool's defence, bringing calmness, organisation, and an aerial threat that were previously lacking.

His contribution was pivotal in Liverpool clinching the Champions League in 2019 and securing their first Premier League title in 30 years the following season. Van Dijk's presence also elevated the performances of those around him, making Liverpool's defence one of the most formidable in Europe.

1. Nemanja Vidic (Spartak Moscow to Manchester United, 2006)

Manchester United’s acquisition of Nemanja Vidic for a mere £7 million is widely regarded as the finest bit of business in Premier League history.

Vidic's defensive prowess, combined with his leadership skills, played an instrumental role in the club's domestic and European successes during his time at Old Trafford.

His partnership with Rio Ferdinand is remembered as one of the best defensive pairings in Premier League history, and the Serbian’s ability to adapt quickly to the physicality and pace of English football was remarkable, making him a cornerstone of United's defence for many seasons.

Other notable mentions include Seamus Coleman, who joined Everton from Sligo Rovers in 2009 and became a staple in the Toffees side for many years; and Ashley Young, who moved from Watford to Aston Villa in 2007 and later joined Manchester United, winning multiple titles.

Clint Dempsey, who transferred from the New England Revolution to Fulham in 2007 for a short stint, became a key player known for his versatility and goal-scoring ability. Lastly, Mikel Arteta's move from Real Sociedad to Everton in 2005 was notable for starting the Spaniard's love affair with the Premier League, which continues today after his retirement.

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