The last few days of the January transfer window provided Liverpool fans with more than their fair share of excitement, disappointment and optimism all at the same time.
Once news of Chelsea‘s bid for Fernando Torres broke, and his subsequent transfer request, it was the catalyst for the most dramatic transfer deadline day in LFC’s history.
As Torres departed, in came Newcastle‘s Andy Carroll and Ajax’s Luis Suarez, while attempts to sign Blackpool’s Charlie Adam and Aston Villa‘s Ashley Young were rebuffed.
While many may be shocked at the huge transfer fee paid for Carroll, £35m, fans should remember that Liverpool were forced into the situation by the timing of Torres and Chelsea‘s actions.
It should also be noted that in previous windows a similar amount would have been spent on servicing the debt on the football club rather than brining in a young, talented replacement.
Meanwhile, the Reds got the best possible price for the ‘Iberian Prancer’ meaning their net spend at the end of the window is just £2m.
The only other arrival on deadline day was Coventry City’s 17 year old midfielder Conor Thomas who joins on loan for the season with a view to a permanent move in the summer. He will look to impress in the reserves and is another sign that Liverpool and Fenway Sports Group are clearly looking to the future.
Here’s a round-up of all January’s activity:
IN
Luis Suarez – £23m from Ajax
Andy Carroll – £35m from Newcastle
Jason Banton – Free from Blackburn
Yusuf Mersin – Undisclosed from Millwall
Conor Thomas – Loan, with view to permanent deal from Coventry
OUT
Fernando Torres – £50m to Chelsea
Ryan Babel – £6m to Hoffenheim
Andras Simon – Released
Charles Itandje – Free to Atromitos
Loans:
Paul Konchesky – To Nottingham Forest, end of season
Stephen Darby – To Notts County, end of season
Chris Mavinga – To Genk, end of season
Nathan Eccleston – To Charlton, end of season
David Amoo – To MK Dons, month loan
