Luis Suárez, Cole Palmer and Wayne Rooney

20 Game-Changing Deadline Day Transfers in the Premier League

February 3, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

The Premier League has seen some remarkable transfers on deadline day, with clubs securing last-minute deals that have shaped their history. These signings range from world-class superstars to unexpected bargains, all of whom made a significant impact at their respective clubs. We take a look at 20 of the best deadline day transfers in Premier League.

20. Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea → Bolton, January 2011)

Daniel Sturridge joined Bolton Wanderers on loan from Chelsea in January 2011, and it turned out to be a brilliant move for both player and club. In just 12 appearances, the young striker scored eight goals, showcasing his immense talent. His form at Bolton convinced Liverpool to sign him in 2013, where he would go on to form a deadly partnership with Luis Suárez. Sturridge’s time at Bolton remains one of the best loan spells in Premier League history.

19. Marouane Fellaini (Standard Liège → Everton, September 2008)

Marouane Fellaini arrived at Everton as the club’s record signing at the time, and he quickly became a fan favorite. The towering Belgian midfielder was known for his aerial dominance and knack for scoring crucial goals. Under David Moyes, he was a key part of Everton’s midfield, often playing in an advanced role behind the striker. His performances earned him a move to Manchester United in 2013, where he remained a useful squad player for several years.

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18. Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus → Manchester United, August 2021)

Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United in 2021 was one of the most sensational deadline day deals of all time. At 36, many doubted whether he could still perform at the highest level, but he quickly silenced critics by scoring twice on his second debut against Newcastle. Though United struggled as a team, Ronaldo finished the season as the club’s top scorer. His return didn’t end on the best terms, but it was an unforgettable moment in Premier League history.

17. Manuel Akanji (Dortmund → Manchester City, September 2022)

Manchester City made a late move for Manuel Akanji in 2022 to bolster their defense, and it proved to be an inspired signing. The Swiss center-back quickly adapted to Pep Guardiola’s system, offering composure and tactical intelligence in City’s backline. With his ability to play in multiple defensive positions, Akanji became a key figure in City’s treble-winning season in 2022-23. His presence added much-needed depth to an already formidable squad.

16. Rafael van der Vaart (Real Madrid → Tottenham, August 2010)

Tottenham pulled off a masterstroke by signing Rafael van der Vaart from Real Madrid in 2010. The Dutch playmaker immediately became a fan favorite, dazzling with his technique, vision, and ability to score spectacular goals. He formed a great partnership with Gareth Bale and Jermain Defoe, helping Spurs qualify for the Champions League. Van der Vaart’s two-year spell in North London remains one of the most impactful in the club’s recent history.

15. Lucas Moura (PSG → Tottenham, January 2018)

Lucas Moura arrived at Tottenham in 2018 as an exciting but inconsistent winger, but he soon etched his name into club history. His most iconic moment came in the 2018-19 Champions League semifinals when he scored a hat-trick against Ajax, sending Spurs to their first-ever final. While he never fully established himself as a starter, his energy, dribbling, and ability to score in crucial moments made him a valuable asset for Spurs.

14. Dele Alli (MK Dons → Tottenham, February 2015)

Signed as a teenager from League One side MK Dons, Dele Alli became one of the best young talents in the Premier League. His breakthrough season in 2015-16 saw him score stunning goals and develop an outstanding partnership with Harry Kane. He played a crucial role in Tottenham’s title challenges under Mauricio Pochettino, winning back-to-back PFA Young Player of the Year awards. Though his form declined in later years, Alli’s impact at Spurs was undeniable.

13. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Dortmund → Arsenal, January 2018)

Aubameyang joined Arsenal in 2018 and immediately hit the ground running, finishing as the club’s top scorer in four consecutive seasons. His pace, movement, and clinical finishing made him one of the deadliest strikers in the league. He won the Premier League Golden Boot in 2018-19 and played a crucial role in Arsenal’s FA Cup triumph in 2020. His later years at the club were marred by disciplinary issues, but his peak years at Arsenal were truly elite.

12. Robbie Keane (Leeds → Tottenham, August 2002)

Robbie Keane became a legend at Tottenham after joining from Leeds in 2002. The Irish striker was known for his clever movement, clinical finishing, and ability to create chances for teammates. He was Spurs’ top scorer for several seasons and formed a formidable partnership with Dimitar Berbatov. Keane’s leadership and consistency made him one of Tottenham’s most beloved players.

11. Dimitar Berbatov (Tottenham → Manchester United, September 2008)

Manchester United made a deadline day swoop for Dimitar Berbatov in 2008, and the Bulgarian forward proved to be worth every penny. His elegant style, first touch, and goal-scoring ability added a new dimension to United’s attack. He played a key role in their 2010-11 title-winning season, finishing as the league’s top scorer. Berbatov’s effortless brilliance made him one of the most stylish players in Premier League history.

10. Mesut Özil (Real Madrid → Arsenal, August 2013)

When Arsenal signed Mesut Özil from Real Madrid, it was a statement signing that signaled the club’s ambitions. The German playmaker was a magician with the ball, providing world-class vision and assists. He played a crucial role in Arsenal winning three FA Cups and revitalizing their attacking play. Although his time at the club ended in controversy, Özil remains one of the most technically gifted players to wear an Arsenal shirt.

9. Mikel Arteta (Everton → Arsenal, August 2011)

Mikel Arteta arrived at Arsenal in 2011 as a composed and experienced midfielder. His leadership and passing ability stabilized Arsenal’s midfield during a transitional period. He eventually became club captain and helped the team win two FA Cups. After retiring, Arteta returned as Arsenal’s manager, further cementing his legacy at the club.

8. Carlos Tevez (Corinthians → West Ham, August 2006)

West Ham pulled off one of the most shocking Deadline Day deals in history when they signed Carlos Tevez in 2006. The Argentine striker initially took time to adapt, but once he found his form, he became a cult hero at Upton Park. His relentless work rate, skill, and crucial goals helped West Ham avoid relegation, with his famous winner against Manchester United on the final day securing their Premier League survival. Tevez’s short but unforgettable spell at West Ham remains one of the most dramatic individual impacts in league history.

7. John Stones (Barnsley → Everton, January 2013)

John Stones joined Everton as a raw talent but developed into one of England’s best defenders. His composure on the ball and defensive intelligence caught the attention of Manchester City, where he became a key figure in their dominant era under Pep Guardiola.

6. Hugo Lloris (Lyon → Tottenham, August 2012)

Lloris became Tottenham’s captain and one of the league’s most reliable goalkeepers. His leadership and shot-stopping ability played a crucial role in Spurs’ rise as a top-four club.

5. Cole Palmer (Manchester City → Chelsea, September 2023)

Cole Palmer’s move from Manchester City to Chelsea in the summer of 2023 raised eyebrows, as many saw him as a future star for City. However, he quickly justified Chelsea’s faith by becoming one of their standout performers. His dribbling, creativity, and composure in front of goal have made him a key player in a rebuilding Chelsea side. At just 21 years old, Palmer has already proven he has the talent to be a future superstar in the Premier League.

4. Ashley Cole (Arsenal → Chelsea, August 2006)

One of the most controversial transfers in Premier League history saw Ashley Cole swap Arsenal for Chelsea in 2006. Despite the controversy, he became one of the best left-backs in football history. Cole was a defensive rock and an attacking threat, playing a key role in Chelsea’s multiple Premier League and FA Cup triumphs. He later won the Champions League in 2012, cementing his legacy as one of Chelsea’s greatest-ever players.

3. Claude Makélélé (Real Madrid → Chelsea, August 2003)

Claude Makélélé’s arrival at Chelsea in 2003 was a turning point for the club. His intelligence, positioning, and defensive abilities were so influential that the deep midfield role became known as the “Makélélé role.” Under José Mourinho, he was the foundation of a Chelsea team that won back-to-back Premier League titles. His impact on English football cannot be overstated, as he changed how defensive midfielders were viewed in the modern game.

2. Luis Suárez (Ajax → Liverpool, January 2011)

When Liverpool signed Luis Suárez in January 2011, few could have predicted just how transformative he would become. The Uruguayan striker developed into one of the best players in the world, leading Liverpool’s title charge in the 2013-14 season with 31 goals in 33 games. His incredible dribbling, finishing, and relentless work rate made him a nightmare for defenders. Although he left for Barcelona in 2014, his impact at Liverpool was unforgettable.

1. Wayne Rooney (Everton → Manchester United, August 2004)

At just 18 years old, Wayne Rooney’s £27 million transfer from Everton to Manchester United was a record-breaking deal for a teenager. He made an immediate impact, scoring a hat-trick on his debut in the Champions League. Over the next 13 years, Rooney became United’s all-time leading goal scorer, winning five Premier League titles, the Champions League, and several domestic trophies. His versatility, leadership, and goal-scoring ability made him one of the greatest players in Premier League history.