Top Five January Loan Signings in Premier League History

The Premier League‘s January transfer window has seen reduced spending this year due to stricter Profit and Sustainability rules. Clubs are now looking for innovative ways to make deals happen as the window approaches its end.

Unlike the previous year’s record outlay, this winter has seen only a small fraction spent so far. Loans are often a smart option for clubs needing to strengthen their teams without heavy financial commitments, and the January window is well-known for successful temporary signings.

Here are five notable loan signings in Premier League history.

Christophe Dugarry (Birmingham)

Birmingham City required some spark in the 2002/03 season while fighting relegation. Steve Bruce made the decision to loan in World Cup winner Christophe Dugarry. Although Dugarry’s career seemed to be fading at Bordeaux, he brought quality to Birmingham’s fight for survival.

After a slow start, he found his form, scoring five goals in four games, all of which were victories, helping Birmingham rise up the table. He later signed permanently but faced injury troubles in his second season before moving to Qatar SC. His contribution to the club’s survival remains memorable.

Mikel Arteta (Everton)

In January 2005, Mikel Arteta joined Everton at a pivotal moment in his career, having struggled after returning to Real Sociedad. Arteta filled the gap left by Thomas Gravesen and showcased his skills in David Moyes’ midfield, helping Everton secure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification before signing permanently for £2m.

In his first full season, he won both Everton’s Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards, retaining the former the following year.

Arteta went on to enjoy six successful seasons at Everton, making 209 appearances before transferring to Arsenal in 2011.

Robert Huth (Leicester)

Leicester City aimed for stability in their fight against relegation in the 2014/15 season by bringing in Robert Huth on loan from Stoke. Though Huth had limited playing time at Stoke, he quickly made an impact on Leicester’s defense.

His presence helped Leicester escape the relegation zone after being bottom of the table at Christmas. After making a permanent move, Huth contributed to Leicester’s stunning title win the following year.

Tomas Soucek (West Ham)

Tomas Soucek arrived in the Premier League in January 2020 as an unexpected signing. The Czech midfielder turned out to be a key player for David Moyes and West Ham, exhibiting traits that aligned perfectly with Moyes’ style. He scored three goals in 13 appearances, prompting West Ham to sign him permanently for £19m.

Soucek’s first season included ten Premier League goals, earning him the West Ham United Player of the Year award.

Jesse Lingard (West Ham)

West Ham made another smart loan signing in 2021, acquiring Jesse Lingard from Manchester United. After not featuring for United earlier in the season, Lingard made a remarkable debut for West Ham with two goals against Aston Villa.

He went on to score nine goals and provide five assists in 16 matches, significantly contributing to West Ham’s top-six finish and qualification for the Europa League.

Despite a successful loan, West Ham and Manchester United could not finalize a permanent deal. Lingard’s career has since stalled, and he is currently a free agent after leaving Nottingham Forest last summer.