The January transfer window has slammed shut, leaving clubs across England to assess their business. While Premier League heavyweights like Manchester United, Liverpool, and Arsenal had relatively quiet months, Championship sides such as Millwall and Blackpool expressed satisfaction with their recruitment efforts. The window saw a mix of strategic moves, missed opportunities, and preparations for the latter half of the season.
Key takeaways
- Premier League ‘big six’ largely inactive, focusing on summer plans or existing squads.
- Championship clubs demonstrated proactive recruitment, aiming for promotion or stability.
- Millwall manager Alex Neil expressed contentment with his club’s January dealings.
- Blackpool boss Ian Evatt believes his side is stronger after deadline day arrivals.
Premier League club assessments
Arsenal were expected to be quiet and largely remained so, only exploring options if a long-term target or unique opportunity arose. Their focus remains on the summer window.
Milan City made significant moves, securing Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi ahead of rivals, and facilitating Kalvin Phillips’ loan to Sheffield United.
Manchester United’s window was quiet, with a focus on preserving funds for summer targets. Uncertainty remains over their next head coach.
Liverpool’s business was subdued after a large summer spend. They missed out on Marc Guehi but secured Jeremy Jacquet for the summer.
Chelsea had a quiet month, missing out on their primary target Jeremy Jacquet.
Championship standout performers
Millwall manager Alex Neil was pleased with the club’s business, bringing in goalkeeper Anthony Patterson, winger Tommy Watson, and midfielder Barry Bannan. Neil highlighted the quality and competition these new signings bring.
Blackpool manager Ian Evatt believes the club is in a stronger position following the arrivals of Reuell Walters, Karoy Anderson, and Leighton Clarkson on deadline day, alongside earlier signings.
Other notable club activities
Bournemouth’s window was seen as a success with four new arrivals, including Rayan and Alex Toth, helping them move away from the relegation zone.
Brighton’s business was typically measured, focusing on long-term planning and re-signing Pascal Gross.
Tottenham’s squad looks thin, particularly in attack, despite signing Conor Gallagher. They missed out on key targets and will look to strengthen in the summer.
Burnley’s signing of James Ward-Prowse was a smart move, but the club faces an uphill battle to avoid relegation.
Wolves’ window was dominated by outgoings, with the sale of Jorgen Strand Larsen to Crystal Palace for a significant fee, as they appear to be preparing for a potential Championship season.
Sources
- January transfer window: Your club’s business assessed, including Man Utd, Liverpool and Arsenal | Football
News, Sky Sports. - ‘We’re pleased with the business that we’ve done’ – discusses latest signings, striker depth –
Southwark News, Southwark News. - Ian Evatt issues honest verdict on Blackpool’s transfer business following three Deadline Day arrivals, Blackpool Gazette.
- Premier League January transfer grades: Which club enjoyed a masterstroke of a window? Whose lack of signings
will frustrate their fans? And whose business signals relegation is looming?, Daily Mail. - [Championship transfer window winners and losers: Middlesbrough, Derby County and Wrexham’s business analysed
- BBC Sport](https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cwyr9pgnl20o), BBC.
