Detailed Breakdown of Total Spending by EPL 'Big Six' at January Transfer Window

The January 2026 transfer window concluded with a fascinatng contrast in strategies among the Premier League’s "Big Six," as financial prudence clashed with aggressive late-market maneuvering.

Manchester City emerged as the window's undisputed heavyweights, spearheading a massive rebuild under Pep Guardiola with a total outlay exceeding £84 million. Their business was headlined by the £65 million acquisition of Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo, whose release clause was triggered early in the month to ward off rival interest.

City further fortified their defense by poaching Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace for £20 million, a move that underscored their intent to dominate both domestic and European fronts after a rare trophy-less previous season. This aggressive spending was partially offset by approximately £27.5 million in sales, most notably the £27 million departure of young talent Oscar Bobb to Fulham.

In contrast, Liverpool opted for a strategy centered on long-term security rather than immediate reinforcements, ultimately agreeing to the most expensive deal of the window. In a dramatic "hijack" of Chelsea’s primary target, the Reds secured a verbal and contractual agreement for Rennes’ 20-year-old center-back Jérémy Jacquet in a deal worth €70 million (£60 million). While the Frenchman will not officially arrive at Anfield until the summer, the commitment represents nearly the entirety of Liverpool's winter financial activity.

Aside from this blockbuster future-proofing and the permanent departure of James Norris, the club remained remarkably quiet on the pitch, choosing to trust Arne Slot’s existing squad despite a growing list of defensive injuries.

The North London rivals and the remaining giants of the Big Six followed a more measured or reactive path. Tottenham Hotspur were the most active behind City, spending roughly £48 million to bolster Thomas Frank's squad. Their primary investment was the £34.6 million signing of Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid, a move funded by the £35 million sale of Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace. Spurs also added Brazilian talent Souza for £13 million and snatched young striker James Wilson on loan from under Arsenal’s nose.

Arsenal themselves had an uncharacteristically silent window, focusing on youth and depth after a £250 million summer spree. Their only notable expenditure was a late €3.5 million deal for Stoke City's teenage defender Jaden Dixon. Similarly, Manchester United and Chelsea prioritized internal stability and academy departures; United kept their "powder dry" following the managerial appointment of Michael Carrick, while Chelsea focused on trimming a bloated squad—seeing the exit of Raheem Sterling—and securing 17-year-old left-back Yisa Alao for a nominal fee.