Historic Deadline-Day Transfers in Football

Aug 31, 2026

64 min

Aug 31, 2026 15:32

Ronaldo, Rooney, Cole: The biggest deadline-day transfers

## Ronaldo's Return to Manchester United

In 2021, Cristiano Ronaldo made headlines with his return to Manchester United. Initially linked with a move to Manchester City, United swooped in to secure the Portuguese star from Juventus on the final day of the transfer window.

## Mesut Ozil Joins Arsenal

In 2013, Arsenal broke their transfer record by signing Mesut Ozil from Real Madrid for approximately £42.5 million. This unexpected move electrified fans and marked a significant shift in the club's transfer strategy.

## Wayne Rooney's Move to United

Wayne Rooney became the most expensive teenager in football history when Manchester United signed him from Everton in 2004 for nearly £30 million. The transfer was controversial due to Rooney's Liverpool roots and the rivalry between the clubs.

## Robinho's Shock Transfer to Manchester City

Robinho's 2008 transfer from Real Madrid to Manchester City was a dramatic deadline-day twist. Initially expected to join Chelsea, City secured his signature in a surprise move following the club's takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group.

## Ashley Cole's Controversial Switch to Chelsea

In 2006, Ashley Cole left Arsenal for Chelsea in a deal that included William Gallas moving in the opposite direction. This transfer remains contentious among Arsenal fans, who viewed it as a betrayal for financial gain.

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