January transfers: Why do Premier League teams spend less in January?

The prospect of a mid-season move can be difficult for players, with no pre-season or time to integrate into the team.

Former England and Everton defender Phil Jagielka unexpectedly moved from Derby to Stoke due to off-field financial problems for the Rams in January 2022.

“It was very strange,” Jagielka told BBC Sport. “I was scheduled to play a match [but] Derby can’t offer me anything else. It was really a case of uncertainty as to what was going to happen, but fortunately, Stoke was interested.

“I think the deal was probably done in about 20 minutes, but for me, it wasn’t a huge deal. I was nearing the end of my career, but it was a little strange.”

Stoke were down the road, so Jagielka’s move was easier, but for others, it’s not that simple.

“If you’re going to travel permanently, obviously it’s all up to the pump and maybe you’ll leave the family for a month to settle down and go and discover new schools, maybe new languages, a new place to live,” Jagielka adds.

“But there’s a big support unit at most football clubs, like player contacts. People help you look for houses, rent, stay in a hotel for a month if necessary. If it’s January when you move, games come thick and fast. You won’t actually get to see your family anyway, even if they move in with you.”

“Often, families will stay put and a lot of work will be done behind the scenes to eventually resolve it, but usually in the first two weeks, it’s all about joining your football club, and getting to know your new team-mates.”

A January move could disrupt an established dressing room, but Jagielka believes mid-season signings could also bolster the player pool too.

“I guess [it can be positive] Because you’re either trying to win something, consolidate the good start you’ve had, or go and win a competition or qualify for a European competition.”

“You’re getting improvements there to help you achieve your kind of goals for the season or on the flip side, you’re really struggling and need help.”

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