The winter transfer market in January 2026 witnessed significant activity compared to what is usual in this period of the season, as various technical and financial circumstances prompted several clubs to move to strengthen their ranks or rearrange their situations.

Manchester City was one of the clubs that benefited the most in this market, having signed defender Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace for 20 million pounds, in addition to signing winger Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth, deals that reinforced the team with players who have previous experience in the English Premier League.

In the Saudi league, the biggest surprise was Al Hilal's signing of the veteran French star Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad Jeddah.

Conversely, Liverpool chose to invest in the future by signing French defender Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for 60 million pounds, a deal that provided medium-term defensive support, while the French club achieved a significant financial gain.

Some deals raised questions about their technical and financial viability, most notably Crystal Palace's signing of striker Jorgen Strand Larsen for 48 million pounds, at a time when Wolverhampton benefited from the sale value.

The market also saw Ademola Lookman move to Atletico Madrid for 35 million euros, in a deal considered suitable for the Spanish team, alongside Conor Gallagher's return to the English Premier League through Tottenham, providing additional solutions in the midfield.

In terms of loans, Endrick's move from Real Madrid to Lyon stood out as a step aimed at giving him more playing time, while Arsenal preferred to loan Ethan Nwaneri to Marseille to gain experience.

Conversely, Douglas Luiz returned to Aston Villa in an attempt to regain his form, and Drew Fernandez moved from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in a youthful deal that sparked controversy within the Catalan club. Barcelona also signed Joao Cancelo on loan to provide additional options in the backline.