The January 2026 transfer window closed on Monday with plenty of noise but limited late drama. Early excitement centred on reports from journalist Florian Plettenberg claiming Arsenal were exploring a move for Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali. The Magpies, however, swiftly dismissed the story.
Liverpool Secure Future Deal for Jeremy Jacquet
Liverpool’s move for Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet emerged as the most eye-catching deal of the day. The highly rated 20-year-old centre-back will not feature in the Premier League until next season, remaining in France for the rest of the campaign before joining Liverpool in the summer.
Chelsea had previously been linked to Jacquet earlier in the window.
Palace Misses Out on Mateta but Strengthens Squad
A proposed £30m move that would have taken Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta to AC Milan collapsed due to medical concerns, keeping the forward at Selhurst Park.
Despite the setback, Palace added further firepower by signing Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves. They had also brought in Brennan Johnson and Evann Guessand earlier in January.
Wolves, Everton, and Brighton Make Late Adjustments
Wolves moved quickly to replace Strand Larsen by signing Adam Armstrong from Southampton. They also bolstered their midfield with Angel Gomes on loan from Marseille.
Elsewhere, Everton filled the gap left by the injured Jack Grealish by bringing in Chelsea winger Tyrique George on loan. Brighton allowed Brajan Gruda to join RB Leipzig temporarily before recalling Matt O’Riley from Marseille.
Quiet Deadline for Premier League Heavyweights
At the top end of the table, Deadline Day was notably subdued. Arsenal chose not to reinforce despite Mikel Merino’s long-term injury.
Manchester City had already completed their business earlier in January with the signings of Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi. Aston Villa also acted early by securing Tammy Abraham and Douglas Luiz. Manchester United, meanwhile, stood firm and made no signings.
Saudi Pro League Provides Late Headline
Away from England, the Saudi Pro League produced one of Deadline Day’s most eye-catching moves. Karim Benzema joined Al Hilal from rivals Al Ittihad.
The 38-year-old French striker, who left Real Madrid in 2023, makes the switch with Al Ittihad currently sixth in the table, 12 points behind leaders Al Hilal. Benzema now links up with a star-studded squad including Ruben Neves, Darwin Nunez, and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
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