Transfer Day Deadline’s Biggest Winners and Losers
The European soccer transfer window is now shut and clubs cannot make any moves until the summer. The final day was hectic with numerous players joining new teams, resulting in some success stories and others being stuck at their current clubs. Enzo Fernandez, Jorginho, Isco, Marcel Sabitzer, and Milan Skriniar experienced different outcomes on January 31.
Success: Enzo Fernandez moves to Chelsea
The Argentine international finally got the transfer he wanted, as the two clubs agreed on a deal right before the deadline. This transfer concludes Chelsea’s lavish winter spending, as Fernandez joins their midfield rebuild. He leaves a gap at his former club, but the hefty fee can be reinvested in the future.
Failure: Hakim Ziyech’s move to PSG falls through
The Morocco international’s transfer to PSG hit a snag, as reports say a paperwork issue on Chelsea’s end prevented proper documentation from being submitted in time. The French Professional League confirmed the move was not valid, and Ziyech remains at Chelsea amidst new arrivals. The 29-year-old was hoping for a fresh start but will have to wait until summer for a potential move.
Failure: Milan Skriniar remains at Inter until the summer
One of the biggest losers this window, Skriniar will have to stay at Inter Milan until the summer, as he agreed to join PSG as a free agent. This isn’t ideal for either club, as PSG needed new defensive reinforcements and Skriniar wanted to leave immediately.
Success: Marcel Sabitzer joins Manchester United
Many were surprised by this move, as the injury to Christian Eriksen presented an opportunity for United to add a quality stopgap solution. Sabitzer, previously a non-essential player at Bayern Munich, now has the chance to remind everyone of his quality.
Success: Jorginho joins Arsenal
Arsenal didn’t overspend on Moises Caicedo, as they instead went for Leandro Trossard and Jakub Kiwior. This pragmatic approach resulted in three quality additions for a fraction of the price discussed for both Caicedo and Mykhailo Mudryk. Jorginho may just end up as a Premier League champion.
Failure: Isco and Union Berlin deal falls through
Isco’s move to Union Berlin fell apart due to problematic medical results, leaving the 30-year-old without a club. The German team will be fine without him, but it remains uncertain if Isco will find a new club soon, given questions about his physical state.
Brighton’s high asking price prevented Caicedo’s move to Arsenal, as he now faces the tough task to regain the trust of his team, manager, and fans. His isolated situation during the transfer window and the high price tag may deter future suitors from acquiring him in the summer.
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