The January transfer window closed with a flurry of confirmed deals and late reversals, as clubs across Europe and beyond completed final pieces of business before the deadline. This transfer deadline day roundup brings you four of the biggest stories moving across Europe and the Saudi Pro League.
Transfer deadline day roundup: Benzema Completes Move to Al Hilal
Karim Benzema has officially completed his move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal, with the transfer confirmed by Fabrizio Romano on deadline day.
The move ends weeks of speculation surrounding Benzema’s future in Saudi Arabia and represents a significant statement from Al Hilal, who continue to consolidate elite attacking talent. Benzema’s arrival strengthens an already competitive squad and adds proven Asian Champions League pedigree to the Saudi Pro League title race.
This transfer was able to go through despite difficulties involving protests from other beneficiaries of the PUblic Investment Fund and the directive of the Saudi Ministry of Sport to put it on hold.
Mateta’s Proposed AC Milan Move Falls Through After Medical
In contrast, Jean-Philippe Mateta’s anticipated transfer to AC Milan collapsed after the striker failed to pass final medical checks. Milan opted not to proceed with the deal following further examinations, bringing an abrupt end to negotiations that had progressed deep into deadline day.
The decision leaves Crystal Palace with Mateta still in their squad after planning around a possible departure. For the player, the failed medical represents a significant setback, halting a move that would have placed him in one of Europe’s top leagues during a crucial stage of the season.
However, the impact this would have on Mateta rejoining the Crystal Palace squad for the remainder of the season remains to be seen.
Lookman Finalises Atletico Madrid Switch
One of the cleanest deals of the deadline involved Ademola Lookman, who completed his move from Atalanta to Atletico Madrid.
Atletico moved decisively to secure Lookman, adding a proven wide forward with pace, directness, and goal output. The transfer reflects Diego Simeone’s preference for ready-made attackers capable of contributing immediately, rather than long-term development projects.
In a window where the Nigerian winger had been linked with Fenerbahce, the move to Atletico Madrid seems like a step in the right direction for the one-time CAF best player.
Chelsea Recall Mamadou Sarr as Liverpool Secure Jacquet Deal
Chelsea confirmed the recall of defender Mamadou Sarr from his loan spell at Strasbourg. The decision was taken as part of Chelsea’s squad management planning rather than as a reactionary late move, with the club opting to reintegrate Sarr for the remainder of the season, and also to serve as a cover in their centre-back position.
Elsewhere, Liverpool reached an agreement to sign highly rated centre-back Jérémy Jacquet from Stade Rennais. The deal was finalised before the deadline, with Jacquet expected to remain at Rennes until the summer before completing his move to Anfield.
Liverpool beat heavyweights like Chelsea and Bayern Muich to secure the signature of the 20-year-old.
Deadline Day in Summary
As the window shuts, this transfer window once again offers interesting sagas amid opportunities for clubs to bolster their squad going into the run-in.
On roundup, Benzema’s completed switch to Al Hilal delivers the headline move, Lookman’s transfer strengthens Atletico immediately, while Mateta’s failed medical highlights the risks inherent in late negotiations. Chelsea and Liverpool, meanwhile, focused on internal planning and future squad building rather than last-minute gambles.
With the market now closed, attention turns to how these final deals shape the remainder of the season in football across Europe and beyond.
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