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Top 10 Biggest January Transfer Moves in Football History

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January is typically a quieter transfer window compared to the summer, but every now and then, football clubs splash the cash to secure game-changing signings.

This January, PSG made headlines by signing Khvicha Kvaratskheila for over €70 million. It’s a bold move, especially mid-season, but where does it rank among the most expensive January transfers in football history? Let’s find out.

10. Christian Pulisic to Chelsea (€64M, 2019)

The American wonderkid joined Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund in January 2019 but stayed at the German club on loan until the end of the season. This move made him the most expensive American footballer and helped cement his place among the elite young players of his generation.

9. Aymeric Laporte to Manchester City (€65M, 2018)

Laporte left Athletic Club to join Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. The French center-back immediately made an impact, helping City achieve a historic 100-point Premier League season.

8. Bruno Fernandes to Manchester United (€65M, 2020)

Bruno Fernandes revolutionized Manchester United’s midfield upon his arrival from Sporting CP. With his creativity and leadership, Bruno quickly became a fan favorite, winning the club’s Player of the Season award in just half a season.

7. Gonçalo Ramos to PSG (€65M, 2023)

After impressing at the 2022 World Cup, Ramos joined PSG on loan with an option to buy. The move became permanent in January 2024, but injuries and illness have hampered his progress, leaving fans and the club wanting more.

6. Mykhailo Mudryk to Chelsea (€70M, 2023)

Chelsea fought off Arsenal to sign the Ukrainian winger in 2023. Unfortunately, his performances have not justified the hefty fee, and he has since faced further challenges, including a suspension for failing a drugs test.

5. Khvicha Kvaratskheila to PSG (€70M+, 2025)

The Georgian star’s mid-season move to PSG from Napoli has already set a record as Ligue 1’s most expensive January transfer. Fans eagerly await to see if Kvaratskheila will live up to his immense potential in the French capital.

4. Dušan Vlahović to Juventus (€83.5M, 2022)

Juventus secured Vlahović’s services from Fiorentina during a heated January battle with Arsenal. The Serbian striker has delivered consistent performances, making him one of Serie A’s most valuable assets.

3. Virgil van Dijk to Liverpool (€84.65M, 2018)

Liverpool’s acquisition of Van Dijk from Southampton transformed their defense. The Dutchman’s leadership and world-class performances were pivotal in Liverpool’s Champions League triumph and their Premier League dominance.

2. Enzo Fernández to Chelsea (€121M, 2023)

Fresh off a World Cup win with Argentina, Enzo joined Chelsea as the most expensive signing in Premier League history. Despite mixed results so far, the 24-year-old has time on his side to justify his price tag.

1. Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona (€135M, 2018)

Barcelona splurged on Coutinho in hopes of filling the void left by Neymar’s departure. Unfortunately, the Brazilian failed to make a lasting impact, becoming a cautionary tale about January transfers gone wrong.

Conclusion

While Kvaratskheila’s move to PSG ranks fifth in terms of cost, its impact remains to be seen. The January transfer window has brought its share of both legendary signings and expensive flops. What do you think—can Kvaratskheila justify his price tag and make history as one of the greats?

Let us know your thoughts and who you think is the greatest January signing ever. Don’t forget to share this article, and stay tuned for more football stories!

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