Like always, a lot is set to happen on the deadline day of the 2024 summer transfer window. Teams. Footballers and agents are rushing off with last-minute moves to repair teams and strengthen careers. Not many of these fast-paced career moves have resulted in glory.
But some of the deals were game changers, some changed a player’s fate forever, and some deals gave clubs a new lifeline. Now, let’s have a look at the best deadline day transfers in the history of the modern era of football:
Top 10 Best Deadline Day Transfers
10. Carlos Tevez: Corinthians to West Ham United
Who can forget the might of Argentine striker Carlos Tevez! Long before Europe saw his lethal attacking pursuits, Tevez was introduced into the continent for a fee of 14.60 million Euros, when West Ham signed him from Brazil.
Tevez only played for a season at the club, before being loaned for a mammoth fee to Manchester United and later transferred for double to Manchester City. He might have played just 29 games as a West Ham player, but the deal guaranteed West Ham enormous profits.
9. Dimitar Berbatov: Tottenham Hotspur to Manchester United
The last-minute deal between Tottenham Spurs and United is one of the best in Red Devils history. The centre-forward appeared in 149 matches for the club and was a saviour during his years at Old Trafford, often acting as a replacement for the already star-studded forward line.
8. Robinho: Real Madrid to Manchester City
The 2008 signing of Robinho perhaps was a statement that English football is set to witness a new chapter. Back then, Manchester City was purchased by the current owners. The Abu Dhabi based group left no stone unturned to make City the biggest team.
Robinho’s signing was the first of many big decisions they took over time. The Brazilian was rooted for a move to Chelsea, but City struck a record deal to pull him. He played 41 games for the club, scoring 14 goals.
Also Read: Top 10 most overrated transfers in football history
7. Ronaldo: Inter Milan to Real Madrid
The Brazilian Ronaldo, R9 is one of the biggest football stars of the century. He has ruled in both club football and international football. The former Inter Milan star, when signed for Real Madrid in the final moments of 2002, shook many. He ruled the Spanish giants for years since then. He hailed an exceptional goal ratio at the club, scoring 103 goals in just 177 games.
6. Gareth Bale: Tottenham to Real Madrid
Remember the good old El Classico days, when the MSN of FC Barcelona fought with the BBC of Real Madrid? Well, one of the pivotal parts of Real Madrid’s BBC trio was also a last-day purchase.
Bale was like the missing piece of the almost complete “Galactico” formed by President Florentino Perez. Bale along with his on-field mates Benzema and Cristiano conquered every trophy they played in Europe. After a glorious long spell with Real Madrid, he went back to Tottenham.
5. Mesut Ozil: Real Madrid to Arsenal
One of the prime midfielders for Arsenal in the past decade, Ozil was also a last-day buy. He was signed for a then-record fee from Real Madrid in 2013. Though Ozil didn’t achieve much with Arsenal, other than three FA Cups, the German’s legacy was unmatched in the Emirates. The German World Cup winner made 254 massive appearances with the Gunners.
4. Ashley Cole: Arsenal to Chelsea
The English left-back was an integral part of Arsenal’s defense when he joined Chelsea FC in 2006, leaving the Gunners with minimum time and choices. The much talked about shocking move was a hit one though. Cole won a series of trophies since his arrival, including the coveted UEFA Champions League. He left an everlasting legacy at Chelsea FC, having played over 300 games.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo: Juventus to Manchester United
One of the greatest footballers of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo returned to the club from where his legacy was noticed first on the final transfer day of 2021. On his arrival, many felt that the curse on Manchester United’s “No. 7” is over. The homecoming has been one of the most sensational news in over the years.
Though Ronaldo’s second stint was not of that impact, since he left Juventus. But, he still managed to have 27 goals in 54 features even at that age.
2. Wayne Rooney: Everton to Manchester United
One of Manchester United’s greatest ever, Wayne Rooney was secured on the deadline day of 2004. He was just 18 back then, dominating at Everton. Manchester United signed him for a hefty sum, and he proved worth way higher than that.
He stayed with the Manchester-based club from 2017, scoring 183 goals in 393 matches. He brought every possible trophy to Old Trafford. Wayne Rooney left in 2017, returning back to Everton F.C..
1. Sergio Ramos: Sevilla to Real Madrid
One of the greatest defenders in Real Madrid’s history, Sergio Ramos was secured from Sevilla in 2005. The legend is the first Spanish player to be signed by Perez during his era. Ramos undoubtedly is one the biggest legends among all the greats who played for Real Madrid in this century.
The former captain won every trophy on multiple occasions with the club, while playing in the 469 matches with them. His legacy continued till 2021, after which he signed for PSG after the contract expired.
Also Read: Top 10 most expensive Liverpool transfers