Winter Transfer Window 2025: Judging the Biggest Deals of the Month

The 2025 January transfer window is officially in full swing, and the stakes are higher than ever for clubs worldwide. Whether it’s strengthening title challenges, securing top-four finishes, or preparing for relegation battles, the winter window offers teams a chance to reshuffle their decks. Meanwhile, other clubs look to balance their books, offloading fringe players or loaning out young talent.

Known for its unpredictability, January often sees a mix of blockbuster moves and last-minute bargains. With clubs treading cautiously due to financial fair play regulations, this window has already featured its fair share of intriguing deals.

At GOAL, we’re breaking down the biggest transfers, analyzing the business for both clubs and players. Here’s how the most headline-grabbing moves have unfolded so far:

Omar Marmoush (Eintracht Frankfurt to Manchester City, £59m)

For Eintracht:
A devastating blow to their Champions League hopes. Marmoush has been instrumental, directly contributing to 24 goals this season. While the £59m profit is significant, the timing couldn’t be worse. The impending arrival of Elye Wahi may soften the blow, but losing Marmoush mid-season could derail their campaign. Grade: C

For Manchester City:
City finally address their attacking depth after Julian Alvarez’s departure. Marmoush offers versatility to complement Erling Haaland, but doubts remain over whether his breakout form is sustainable. At 25, the Egyptian forward must prove he’s worth the investment. Grade: B-

For Marmoush:
This is a dream move for Marmoush, securing a place in one of the world’s top teams. While the pressure is immense, he’ll relish the opportunity to perform under Pep Guardiola. Grade: A

Kyle Walker (Manchester City to AC Milan, loan)

For Manchester City:
A bittersweet departure for a club legend. Walker’s influence has waned, and a move abroad offers the chance for City to refresh their backline while recouping some financial benefit. Grade: B

For AC Milan:
Walker’s pedigree is unquestionable, but at 34, his best days are behind him. However, with no obligation to buy, this low-risk move could provide defensive experience to the Rossoneri. Grade: C

For Walker:
A new adventure in Serie A is just what Walker needs after a challenging period. Surrounded by English teammates like Fikayo Tomori and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, the transition should be smooth. Grade: A

Vitor Reis (Palmeiras to Manchester City, £30m)

For Palmeiras:
Yet another lucrative transfer for the Brazilian club, reinforcing their reputation as a conveyor belt of young talent. While losing Reis stings, the £30m fee ensures Palmeiras remain competitive domestically and in continental tournaments. Grade: A-

For Manchester City:
City secure a highly-rated, ball-playing centre-back to rejuvenate their aging defense. While Reis has undeniable potential, his slender frame and inexperience mean he’ll likely need time to adapt to the Premier League. Grade: B

For Reis:
This move is the ultimate step up for the 19-year-old, who’s already drawn comparisons to Marquinhos. While he may face initial challenges, City offers the perfect environment for development. Grade: A

Antony (Manchester United to Real Betis, loan)

For Manchester United:
A desperate attempt to offload an underperforming asset. Antony’s struggles since his £100m move have been glaring, and this dry loan does little to ease United’s financial burden. Grade: D

For Real Betis:
A gamble worth taking. With no transfer fee or obligation to buy, Betis could benefit if Antony rediscovers his form. Given their inconsistent season, his arrival injects intrigue into their attack. Grade: B

For Antony:
A fresh start in La Liga offers a golden opportunity to revive his career. If he seizes the moment, Antony could reignite interest from top clubs in the summer. Grade: B

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Napoli to PSG, €70m)

For Napoli:
Selling Kvaratskhelia might not derail their Serie A hopes, given his recent decline under Antonio Conte. While fans will mourn his departure, the €70m fee represents smart business. Grade: B+

For PSG:
Kvaratskhelia is a statement signing, but PSG’s crowded wing options make this move puzzling. With their glaring need for a clinical striker, this deal feels slightly misguided. Grade: B

For Kvaratskhelia:
A significant wage increase and a chance to shine in Ligue 1 will appeal to the Georgian star. However, he risks stagnation in a less competitive league. Grade: B-

Donyell Malen (Borussia Dortmund to Aston Villa, £19m)

For Dortmund:
Offloading Malen for less than his original fee reflects his struggles at the club. Still, cashing in now avoids the risk of losing him for free later. Grade: B-

For Aston Villa:
Unai Emery secures a winger capable of adding firepower to Villa’s attack. If Malen regains his form, this could be a bargain for a team chasing European football. Grade: B

For Malen:
A move to the Premier League gives Malen a chance to prove himself on a bigger stage. Under Emery’s guidance, he could rediscover his consistency. Grade: A-

These deals highlight the high stakes and strategic decisions that define the January window. With days left before the deadline, fans can expect even more drama as clubs scramble to finalize their squads. Stay tuned for GOAL’s updates and analysis!