The January transfer window has slammed shut for Premier League clubs. While some leagues like the Eredivisie and MLS can still register players, the big business is done for England's top flight.
It was a relatively quiet deadline day, continuing the trend of calmer winter windows in recent years. Premier League clubs spent just under £400 million in total, with over £70 million of that coming on deadline day itself. Let's break down how each club performed.
The Big Six: Playing It Safe
Arsenal kept things simple. After being burned by injuries last season, they made minimal moves this time around. Oleksandr Zinchenko headed to Ajax, and Ethan Nwaneri went on loan to Marseille. That's basically it.
The Gunners are sitting pretty at the top of the table, so why rock the boat? Their summer signings have done the job, and they're betting that their current squad can get them over the line. It's a confident approach, but they'll need to stay healthy.
Manchester City came out as clear winners. They landed Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace and Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth without breaking the bank. Their net spend was under £60 million after selling Oscar Bobb. That's smart business for title contenders looking to close the gap.
Chelsea under Liam Rosenior focused on clearing deadwood. Raheem Sterling left by mutual consent, while loan moves for Tyrique George and Axel Disasi freed up wages. Sometimes the best business is getting players off the books.
Manchester United? Absolutely nothing. Sir Jim Ratcliffe made it clear he doesn't rate January spending. Michael Carrick has started well as manager, but the squad still lacks balance. They'll lose Casemiro in the summer too, which could hurt.
Liverpool kept it minimal with Jeremy Jacquet signed for summer arrival. Lewis Koumas went out on loan to Hull and already scored on his debut. The Reds seem content with what they have, which is fair given their strong position.
The Battle at the Bottom
Crystal Palace had a mixed bag. Losing Marc Guehi to Manchester City hurts badly, and manager Oliver Glasner confirmed he's leaving in summer. That's rough news for Eagles fans.
They did bring in Jorgen Strand Larsen as a record signing, plus Brennan Johnson and loan addition Evann Guessand. With Jean-Philippe Mateta injured long-term, these forwards need to deliver immediately. The pressure is on for Palace to avoid a relegation scrap.
Wolves are basically resigned to going down. They sold Jorgen Strand Larsen for £48 million, which seems smart given his one league goal all season. Adam Armstrong came in with Championship pedigree, suggesting they're already planning for next season.
Burnley stayed quiet except for James Ward-Prowse on loan. They're winless since October and sitting in deep trouble. A quiet window suggests they've accepted their fate, though recent draws with Liverpool, United, and Spurs show some fight remains.
For punters, Manchester City's smart moves make them better value for a top-four finish. Palace's situation looks increasingly dicey with key departures, while promoted sides like Leeds and Sunderland seem content with their summer business paying off.
