Home » January 2025 Transfer Window Wrap-Up: Big Moves & Shocking Deals

January 2025 Transfer Window Wrap-Up: Big Moves & Shocking Deals

The January 2025 transfer window delivered some blockbuster moves, surprise switches, and shocking decisions. From Marcus Rashford joining Aston Villa to Antony heading to Real Betis, here’s a breakdown of the biggest deals from the winter window of January 2025.

Visit SportsMania for more football news and updates.

Check out M88 Mansion’s best offers here.

Rashford Signs for Villa on Loan, Handed No. 9 Shirt

Marcus Rashford leaving Manchester United wasn’t the biggest shock, but his decision to join a direct Premier League rival, Aston Villa, certainly raised eyebrows among United fans.

Frozen out since December after clashing with head coach Rúben Amorim over training effort, Rashford finally secured an exit. Villa will reportedly cover at least 75% of his wages—possibly rising to 90% based on performance bonuses.

United had similar loan agreements for Jadon Sancho’s return to Borussia Dortmund and Antony’s move to Real Betis. Despite interest from multiple clubs, only Villa and one unnamed Premier League club made viable offers, with United refusing to subsidize wages beyond a set threshold.

Villa, who lost Colombian striker Jhon Duran to Al Nassr earlier in the window, appealed to Rashford’s desire for Champions League football after his initial preference—Barcelona—didn’t materialize. The England international takes the No. 9 shirt vacated by Duran, who completed a £64m (€77m) move to Saudi Arabia.

Antony Joins Betis on Loan

Real Betis secured Manchester United winger Antony on a straight loan for the rest of the season, covering 84% of his salary plus performance-based bonuses.

Many speculate that this could mark the beginning of the end for the Brazilian at United. However, Antony made an instant impact, earning MVP honors in his Betis debut.

Antony’s debut for Real Betis: MVP in his first match! 🥶🐐 The Brazilian baller already making an impact! 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/GetdPUltOS

— 𓃵 (@Ajax_1022) February 3, 2025

Morata Heads to Galatasaray on Loan

AC Milan striker Álvaro Morata has joined Galatasaray on a one-year loan, set to last until January 2026.

The Turkish giants hold an option to extend the deal for six months or sign the Spaniard permanently next year.

Crystal Palace Confirm Chilwell Signing on Deadline Day

Crystal Palace have announced the arrival of left-back Ben Chilwell on loan from Chelsea until the end of the season.

The 28-year-old has struggled for game time at Stamford Bridge, featuring just once in the 2024/25 campaign. Chilwell becomes Palace’s second January signing, following the arrival of young midfielder Romain Esse.

“I’m very excited to be here,” Chilwell said. “Palace is a club moving in a great direction. Seeing how they’ve performed in recent months, it was a no-brainer.”

Man City Announce Nico González Deal

Manchester City confirmed the signing of Nico González from Porto on a four-and-a-half-year contract worth £50m, taking their January spending to £180m.

Reinforcing central midfield was a top priority for City, and González fits the bill perfectly.

Willian Set for Fulham Medical

Fulham have reached an agreement in principle to re-sign Brazilian winger Willian. The 36-year-old will undergo a medical in London on Tuesday and is expected to sign a short-term contract until the end of the season.

Despite knowing he could attract more offers as a free agent post-window, Willian prioritized Fulham due to his strong bond with the club, its fans, and manager Marco Silva.

Asensio Joins Aston Villa from PSG

Aston Villa made another Deadline Day splash, bringing in Marco Asensio on loan from Paris Saint-Germain.

A three-time Champions League winner, Asensio bolsters Unai Emery’s attacking options, joining Rashford as Villa’s second high-profile signing of the day.

Emery previously attempted to sign Asensio in 2023 when he left Real Madrid, but the Spaniard chose PSG. However, struggling for game time this season—just 12 appearances, two goals, and four assists—he has opted for a fresh start in the Premier League.

AC Milan Agree Joao Félix Deal in Principle

AC Milan have reached a verbal agreement with Chelsea to take Joao Félix on loan for the rest of the season.

Chelsea will receive a £5m loan fee, and Milan will cover the Portuguese forward’s wages in full.