The winter window has slammed shut, bringing an end to one of the most dramatic Transfer Deadline Day 2026 finales in recent memory. As the clock struck 11 p.m. on February 2, Premier League clubs had officially surpassed $450 million in total spending, fueled by a frantic final scramble for reinforcements. While Arsenal and Manchester United dominated the rumor mill, it was Liverpool and Crystal Palace who executed the day's most significant business, reshaping their squads for the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign.

Liverpool Steal Jeremy Jacquet in $82M Hijack

In the day's headline-grabbing move, Liverpool successfully completed the Jeremy Jacquet Liverpool transfer, snatching the highly-rated French defender from under the noses of Chelsea and Manchester United. The Reds agreed to a package worth approximately £60 million ($82 million) with Rennes, making Jacquet one of the most expensive defenders in club history.

The 20-year-old center-back, who has drawn comparisons to a young Raphaël Varane, was widely expected to join Chelsea earlier in the week. However, Anfield officials moved decisively in the final 48 hours, convincing Jacquet that his long-term development would be better served under Liverpool’s coaching staff. Crucially, the deal includes a loan-back clause that will see Jacquet finish the current Ligue 1 season with Rennes before arriving on Merseyside this summer.

"It was a decision about football and my future growth," Jacquet reportedly told French outlets after the deal sheets were submitted. By securing his signature now, Liverpool have effectively future-proofed their backline, landing a player whose aerial dominance and ball-playing ability made him Europe's most coveted defensive prospect this winter.

Palace's Record-Breaking Gamble on Strand Larsen

While Liverpool looked to the future, Crystal Palace made an immediate splash by finalizing a Jorgen Strand Larsen record signing. The Eagles have paid a guaranteed £43 million ($54 million) plus add-ons to Wolverhampton Wanderers for the Norwegian striker, smashing their previous transfer record.

The move comes as a surprise to some, given Strand Larsen's difficult 2025-26 season, where he has netted just once in 21 appearances for a struggling Wolves side. However, Palace sporting director Dougie Freedman is banking on the striker rediscovering the electric form he showed in 2024-25, when he scored 14 Premier League goals. The deal became even more critical for Palace amidst the uncertainty surrounding Jean-Philippe Mateta, whose proposed switch to AC Milan collapsed due to medical concerns earlier in the day.

Strand Larsen has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract and will wear the No. 22 shirt. "I need a fresh start, and Selhurst Park feels like the perfect place to bring my energy and goals back," the striker said in his unveiling video.

Arsenal's Midfield Search and the Tonali Rumors

The most intense speculation of the day revolved around North London, specifically the Sandro Tonali Arsenal rumors that caught fire in the morning. With midfielder Mikel Merino ruled out for an extended period due to a broken foot, the Gunners were desperate for a high-caliber replacement.

Reports from Italy initially suggested Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta had approached Newcastle United for a shock loan move for Tonali. However, the Magpies refused to entertain any offers for their Italian maestro. Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, moved quickly to squash the speculation, telling reporters, "Newcastle were never going to let Sandro leave in January. We never had a conversation with Arsenal." Ultimately, Mikel Arteta’s side ended the window without a marquee midfield addition, a decision that will be scrutinized as the title race heats up.

USMNT European Transfers 2026: Freeman Moves, Pepi Stays

It was a mixed day for American stars abroad. In terms of confirmed USMNT European transfers 2026, the standout news is Alex Freeman's move to La Liga. The 21-year-old Orlando City defender has joined Villarreal for a fee rising to $7 million. Freeman, the reigning MLS Young Player of the Year, has enjoyed a meteoric rise and will now test his talents in Spain, looking to cement his spot on the roster for the upcoming World Cup.

Conversely, a blockbuster move for striker Ricardo Pepi fell apart in the final hours. The PSV Eindhoven forward was on the verge of a $43.7 million switch to Fulham, but the Dutch champions pulled the plug after failing to secure a replacement. Compounding the frustration, Pepi is currently sidelined with a broken arm, meaning he will remain in the Eredivisie until at least the summer.

Premier League January Window Recap

This Premier League January window recap shows a market that has regained its confidence. After a quiet winter in 2025, clubs have once again flexed their financial muscle, with total spending exceeding $450 million. The trend highlights a shift towards targeted, high-value investments rather than panic buying.

Other notable soccer transfer done deals include Manchester United's depth signings and several loan moves for relegation-threatened sides. But the headlines belong to Liverpool's strategic coup and Crystal Palace's bold investment. As the second half of the season begins, all eyes will be on whether these millions translate into points.