There have certainly been some surprising January transfers in English football throughout history, especially in the last few years featuring Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and West Ham.
Manchester United’s Juan Mata celebrates scoring
Everyone always hopes and prays for a dramatic January transfer window. Whether it’s a veteran moving clubs or a young star being sold for a ludicrous amount of money, the mid-season extravaganza always provides some interesting drama. Out of all the possible candidates, these lot have been the most surprising in recent years.
Alexandre Pato – Corinthians to Chelsea
Chelsea’s Alexandre Pato in action with Swansea’s Angel Rangel
This one is more shocking because the timing just seemed off. A few years prior to this Alexandre Pato was one of the hottest forwards in all of football, but by this point alot of people had largely forgotten about the Brazilian. His time at Chelsea was extremely disappointing, playing just twice, and the 27-year-old can now be found playing for Villarreal over in Spain.
Afonso Alves – Heerenveen to Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough’s Afonso Alves looks dejected after missing a chance to score
Oh, Afonso. The world was collectively shocked when one of the most prolific scorers in Europe decided upon Middlesbrough as his next destination, and they proceeded to be even more baffled by his performances. It was yet again not what everyone was expecting of the Brazilian forward, although he did hit a hat-trick in an emphatic win against Manchester City.
Juan Mata – Chelsea to Manchester United
Manchester United’s Juan Mata celebrates scoring their first goal
Juan Mata just does not seem to get the credit he deserves no matter where the Spaniard goes. The World Cup winner moved from Chelsea to Manchester United for a blockbuster fee a few years back, however his time in the first team has not been as regular as once hoped. Thankfully things seem to finally be turning a corner for him, as they should.
Javier Mascherano – West Ham to Liverpool
Javier Mascherano – Liverpool
The problem with this move was just how complicated it was. Having already played for two clubs that season, Mascherano’s loan move to Anfield was initially blocked before it was somehow forced through. Nobody really knew what to make of the situation, but Mascherano went on to become one of the most consistent midfielders in the world.
Andy Carroll – Newcastle to Liverpool
Liverpool’s Andy Carroll (R) in action with Wolves’ Roger Johnson
With Liverpool also bringing in Luis Suarez in the same window, many were surprised that Newcastle agreed to let Andy Carroll go. Unfortunately the two forwards could not have had more contrasting careers at Anfield, with Carroll not living up to his potential on Merseyside. However, he will forever live in Liverpool folklore for his FA Cup goal against Everton.
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