Implemented in 2003, the January transfer window presents an opportunity for soccer clubs around the world to strengthen their squads mid-season. This season, the English Premier League topped worldwide spending with a remarkable £120 million (188 million CAD) outlay—up 50 per cent from last year—but still far from the record setting £225 million (353 million CAD) of 2011. Italy’s Serie A spent the second most, trailed by the French and German leagues. Spain’s lacklustre economy shone through, with La Liga residing among the lower spending leagues. While rash deals are occasionally handed out—like the £40 million (63 million CAD) Fernando Torres transfer two years ago—there are definitely some great bargains to be found in January. For instance, Mark van Bommel was purchased for next to nothing in 2011, and played a pivotal role in Milan’s Scudetto triumph that year. Let’s take a look at some of the winners and losers of this past January transfer window:
WINNERS
A.C. Milan
The Italian giants made one of the biggest splashes, bringing in the enigmatic striker Mario Balotelli. Balotelli is perhaps better known for his antics off the pitch, but there is no questioning his talent. For years, he was lauded as having the potential to become the best player in the world, and to date he has shown flashes of being just that. Look no further than Italy’s dramatic victory in the 2012 Euro Cup semi-final against Germany, when Balotelli chested down a ball and rifled it top corner, past the world class keeper Manuel Neuer. His fee of €20 million (27 million CAD) looks reasonable, and many feel that a return to Italy is best for him, considering Milan was where he first made a name for himself as a youth.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
Finalized in August, PSG’s signing of Lucas Moura from Brazilian club Sao Paulo looks to be a good bet. With a hefty price tag of €45 million, many questioned the move. But does his fee really matter? PSG’s new ownership has shown over the past few summers that money is no issue. Lucas is an exciting, young attacker, who will free up space for Zlatan Ibrahimović up front, and cause problems for defenders throughout France. PSG also purchased David Beckham, but from an on-field perspective, he will provide next to nothing for the club. Beckham’s signing will mostly result in substantial jersey revenue for PSG, and the media attention he will bring to the squad and Ligue 1 will be beneficial for all involved.
LOSERS
Arsenal
The mythical Arsène Wenger hasn’t looked too great this season. A string of poor results have put Arsenal in a dogfight for a Champions League spot yet again. Allowing stars like Cesc Fàbregas and Robin van Persie leave on the transfer market is embarrassing for a club as large as Arsenal. This January window, the club favoured David Villa, but a deal failed to materialize. Wenger has been given the funds to strengthen his squad, but instead, he has bought youth products who take years to develop. Once they do mature, however, he cashes in on them, leaving Arsenal without a competitive squad. It’s a vicious trend that doesn’t look like it will end during Wenger’s reign.
Manchester City
Roberto Mancini has been granted the resources to spend as much as he desires. However, he spurned that opportunity this summer, buying flops like Jack Rodwell and Javi Garcia. Man City has been exposed this season, competing with a more experienced Manchester United club that is back on top of the table and doesn’t seem likely to falter anytime soon. With purchases in attack and defence, Man City would have the potential to compete with the world’s best; instead, trophies are unlikely to grace the Etihad Stadium—at least not this season.
