5 shocking January transfers that no one predicted (2022) 

#3. Ferran Torres to Barcelona

Athletic Club v FC Barcelona - Copa Del Rey

Barcelona's finances are currently a well-documented calamity. Hence, it was impossible at the start of the season to imagine Blaugrana paying €55 million for a player like Ferran Torres.

Barcelona were supposed to be swimming in debts totalling €1.3 billion, with free transfers their only salvation. But due to a massive €595 million loan from Goldman Sachs plus Sergio Aguero's retirement due to cardiac arrhythmia, Barca were handed some wiggle room. Samuel Umtiti had to sign a new contract cutting down his salary for Torres to be registered.

Hence, they signed the former Manchester City youngster and spread his fee over a four-year period.

It's also rare to see Barcelona make such a smart purchase. Still just 21, Torres scored eight goals in 15 appearances for the national side last year. He even impressed when given the chance at Manchester City, either playing down the middle or on the wing.

Last season, his 0.5 goals per 90 mins was only bettered by Phil Foden and Ilkay Gündogan at the English club. Although he could've won it all at the Etihad as a bit-part player, his preference is clearly to play a key role in Barcelona's revival.

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#2. Nani to Venezia

Venezia FC v Empoli FC - Serie A

Serie A new boys Venezia had a busy January transfer window, making additions to bolster their survival hopes. The capture of Michaël Cuisance from Bayern Munich for just €4 million was eye-catching in itself.

However, the Frenchman didn't envisage lining up next to Portuguese legend Nani. 35-years young, Nani has joined Venezia for free after enjoying a successful three-year spell with Orlando City. Although he didn't win any silverware in Florida, Nani rolled back the years to score 27 and make 14 assists in just 74 MLS appearances.

He even twice earned a spot in the division's all-star XI. Showing no signs of slowing down, last season the ex-Manchester United star continued to perform at a high level. He racked up more than three shots and 1.5 key passes per 90 minutes while leading the lines for progressive carries.

Hence, somewhat unsurprisingly, it only took him two minutes to make an impact at the Stadio Pierluigi Penzo with an assist on his debut. This transfer is a clear showing of Nani's intent to make it into Portugal's World Cup squad.

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#1. Christian Eriksen to Brentford

FC Internazionale v Cagliari Calcio - Serie A

It can't be put into words just how remarkable it will be to see Christian Eriksen back on the pitch. His well-documented cardiac arrest during the EURO 2020, less than eight months ago left him lucky to be alive.

It seemed impossible that his playing career would resume. Eriksen was fitted with an implanted cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), which by Italian law led to the cancelation of his contract with Inter Milan.

But that didn't stop him from pursuing opportunities outside of Italy. He trained with his hometown club BK Odense and then with Ajax. Plus there are footballers playing with ICD's too. Just take a look at Daley Blind. But that didn't mean finding a new team for Eriksen would be easy.

Step forward Brentford. A popular community-based club from West London taking the Premier League by storm in their first season since being promoted. The Bees have agreed a six-month loan contract with the former Tottenham Hotspur star this season. The side also have a strong Danish contingent which played its part.

It could be a perfect return to elite football for Eriksen and a story that every fan can appreciate no matter your allegiance.