5 players you didn't realise moved in January
The last couple of weeks events have put the usual transfer window shenanigans very much in perspective. Players movements understandably seem quite insignificant now in light of the awful situation that unfolded surrounding Emiliano Sala's move to Cardiff. Even before tragedy struck the football world though, it was a more muted window than usual.
Chelsea were the only big movers, upgrading Alvaro Morata for Gonzalo Higuain, securing Christian Pulisic for the summer and bidding farewell to Cesc Fabregas. Elsewhere, clubs were more frugal than usual, trusting their current squad in a refreshing change for world football. Indeed, spending dropped in the Premier League for the first time since 2012.
However, several high profile players did change clubs during the window, despite the lack of traditional fanfare. Here are five signings made this window that you might have missed.
Victor Moses: Chelsea to Fenerbahce, Loan
Victor Moses has had an unusual career. An exciting prospect at Crystal Palace and Wigan, he then seemed to have been swallowed up by the Chelsea loan machine. However, after spells at Stoke, Liverpool and West Ham, he was suddenly made an integral part of Antonio Conte’s title-winning side, using his athleticism and work rate to great effect as a wing back.
Since Mauricio Sarri replaced his countryman though, Moses once again returned to a bit-part player, and surely has no role in Chelsea’s future. Not a conventional defender, Moses would be an extremely loose fit in a back four, and lacks the attacking quality to usurp the likes of Eden Hazard, Willian or Pedro.
His move to Turkey is probably the best decision for all concerned, and he seems to have hit the ground running with a goal under his belt already.