The January 2026 transfer window is in full swing, with a flurry of activity across Europe's top five leagues. While the total spending currently stands at a relatively modest £27.2 million, several high-profile names have already secured moves, including a much-discussed loan for a Brazilian wonderkid and a World Cup winner heading to Major League Soccer.
Major Moves Headline the Window
Two of the most significant deals confirmed involve players leaving La Liga. On 23 December 2025, Real Madrid's highly-rated young striker Endrick completed a six-month loan move to Ligue 1's Lyon. The Brazilian prodigy has found first-team opportunities limited under manager Xabi Alonso and will seek regular playing time in France.
Just a few days earlier, on 11 December 2025, Atlético Madrid midfielder Rodrigo de Paul made a permanent switch to David Beckham's Inter Miami for a fee of £13.2 million. The Argentine World Cup winner, famously nicknamed 'Messi's bodyguard', departs Spain after scoring in the MLS Cup final victory for his new club.
Bundesliga and Serie A Business
Germany's Bundesliga has seen some shrewd acquisitions. Eintracht Frankfurt secured the signing of Japanese teenage left-back Keita Kosugi from Djurgården for £5.7 million on 19 December. The defender, noted for his pace and work ethic, had previously been linked with Celtic.
In another deal, Wolfsburg triggered a permanent move for French right-back Saël Kumbedi from Lyon, paying £5.2 million on 22 December after a successful loan spell. They also confirmed the free signing of Brazilian defender Cleiton from Flamengo, who will join in January.
Over in Italy, the window saw a veteran striker become a free agent. Milan and Divock Origi terminated the Belgian forward's contract 'by mutual consent' on 23 December. The 30-year-old former Liverpool player last featured for the Rossoneri in May 2023.
Other Notable Transfers and Loans
A number of other deals have been completed across the continent:
- Amadou Haidara (£2.6m): The Mali midfielder moved from RB Leipzig to surprise Ligue 1 leaders Lens on 23 December.
- Claudio Echeverri: Manchester City recalled the Argentine playmaker from his loan at Bayer Leverkusen on 20 December after he struggled for game time.
- Javi Galán (£435k): The 31-year-old Spanish left-back joined Osasuna from Atlético Madrid on a six-month deal on 24 December.
- Nico Fonseca: The son of former striker Daniel Fonseca moved on loan from Club León to La Liga strugglers Real Oviedo on 26 December.
As the window progresses towards its climax, more activity is expected. The current focus remains on loans and cut-price deals, with the total value of completed transfers reflecting a cautious market approach in the winter period.
