Premier League's Window Wasn't Flashy, But These Deals Stood Out

Picture this: you're at the pub, pint in hand, dissecting the January window. Premier League sides forked out a whopping £397 million – dwarfing Serie A's £205 million splurge. It wasn't fireworks everywhere, but as Sam Tighe reports for ESPN, some clubs nailed it while others left you scratching your head. We've graded the big confirmed moves, chronologically, with a cheeky pub-banter vibe.

Early February Fireworks: Strand Larsen Steals the Show

Kicking off on 2 February, Wolves landed Jørgen Strand Larsen from Crystal Palace for £43 million (plus up to £5 million add-ons). Wolves get an A- for gutsy ambition – the Norwegian bagged 14 goals last term, even if this season's been a drought. Palace? A C+; they pressed ahead despite Jean-Philippe Mateta staying put post-medical flop with AC Milan. Risky for the Eagles, banking on a confidence-starved striker in a bold pivot.

Same day, Ademola Lookman finally escaped Atalanta's grip for €35 million (€5 million bonuses) to Atlético Madrid. Atalanta snag a B+ – solid return with 18 months left on his deal after his summer strike antics. Atleti earn a B; the maverick winger slots in nicely as Antoine Griezmann eyes the exit door.

Sunderland then pounced for Nilson Angulo from Anderlecht at £15.2 million. Both clubs get a B – the 22-year-old Ecuadorian speed demon brings flair, work rate and 12 caps for his nation. Black Cats fans, get ready for Premier League potential on a budget.

Saudi Shenanigans and MLS Magic

Karim Benzema's Saudi saga took a twist: undisclosed move from Al Ittihad (D grade – underwhelming end) to rivals Al Hilal (B). At 38, he's no Europe returnee yet, boosting Simone Inzaghi's title charge against Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr. Timing? Ronaldo's been sulking over squad gaps – no coincidence there, lads.

Atlético Madrid doubled up, snagging Obed Vargas from Seattle Sounders undisclosed (club-record for Seattle, A-). Atleti ace it with an A – the Mexican midfielder's energy, tackling and goals scream low-risk gem. Seattle cashed in smartly on his Europe dream.

Deadline Day Drama: Loans, Leftovers and Legends

31 January saw Angel Gomes loaned from Marseille (C+) to Wolves (B), with a bargain €7 million buy option. Great paper deal for Wolves, but pub cynics note: slight frame in set-piece mad Prem? And relegation risk? Marseille's chaos strikes again.

Axel Disasi escaped Chelsea's wilderness on loan to West Hammers (A-). Chelsea limp a C+ – they craved permanent cash. Disasi wins big, getting minutes as a no-nonsense centre-back.

Oleksandr Zinchenko fetched a measly €1.5 million from Arsenal (C) to Ajax (A). Arsenal's title architects from '22 now injury-riddled – fair farewell, poor fee. Ajax lap up his possession mastery for a fitter Eredivisie life.

Finally, Stefan Ortega walked free from Manchester City (C) to Nottingham Forest (A). Five-month deal covers John Victor's knee nightmare – shrewd backup for the Tricky Trees.

Window Winners? Palace's Gamble, West Ham's Steal

Overall, not vintage stuff, but Wolves and West Ham pinched value, while Atleti look transfer savvy. Saudi stays spicy, MLS exports rise. Pub verdict: solid B average, with Palace's Strand punt the wild card. Who's your winner, mate? Fancy Wolves survival now?