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The transfer window is always a festive season for clubs and their supporters too. There will be rumours, arrivals, departures, betrayals and often big-money switches - especially so in recent seasons. As most La Liga clubs are active in this current winter window, eager to improve their respective squads, this article takes a look back at players who arrived in Spain this past summer.
When several household names failed to meet expectations, there are some low-profile players who have surprised many with their impressive performances thus far.
In no particular order, here's a look at five of those acquisitions:
Maxi Gomez (Celta Vigo)
It is a dream for every South American footballer to play in Europe. Even if bought by European sides, many of them fail to perform on the big stage or otherwise go unnoticed. However, in Gomez's case, that will not happen. Signed for around €4m by Celta Vigo, he announced his arrival in some style by netting a brace during their opening weekend fixture against Real Sociedad.
Dubbed as Luis Suárez's long-term successor in Uruguay, he was largely unknown among football followers across the continent - but has since scored in crucial matches, helping his earn crucial points.
With Pione Sisto and Iago Aspas to support him in the final third, Gomez has netted eight goals and created two assists in 18 league appearances thus far this term. Despite agreeing a proposed lucrative move to China, he has gladly remained in Spain as the move itself broke down - which will prove beneficial for his development going forward being a young striker.
Goncalo Guedes (Valencia)
Having joined on a season-long loan deal from Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain, Guedes is playing a vital role in Valencia's successful season thus far. They're currently sitting third in La Liga, eleven points behind leaders Barcelona at present.
Although he was highly-rated during his spell at Benfica, the 21-year-old's growth stalled significantly after agreeing terms to join PSG this time last year. With less playing time and fierce competition within the squad, many critics suggested it was the end for a talented youngster who had potential.
However, PSG's decision to let him earn regular senior minutes elsewhere has paid off significantly. Upon arrival, he did not start immediately and had to start playing on the right wing, as opposed to his preferred left-wing role.
His performances were too impressive to ignore though and soon enough, he became a Valencia regular in his preferred position - from where he has started to contribute more in terms of goals and assists. Four goals and seven assists in 15 league matches, is a commendable tally for a youngster keen to assert his ability away from home comforts this term.
Despite being sidelined for three weeks with a foot injury in mid-November, he has continued to excel and will undoubtedly be a key figure as Valencia hope to secure UEFA Champions League qualification this season.
Already a fan favourite with Los Che, there are strong rumours that - provided the price is right - Guedes will push for a permanent transfer ahead of the summer months.
Andres Guardado (Real Betis)
When Guardado joined Real Betis last summer despite interest from the MLS, it was seen as a move which would boost the Mexican's chances of playing in this year's World Cup.
When you analyse the situation now though, it can be said that he's the best Mexican performer in Europe currently. Under the guidance of manager Quique Setien, the 31-year-old midfielder has turned out to be an important figure in Betis' setup - which connects the defence and attack.
After a three-year stint with PSV, he was signed for around €2.3m last summer. This has turned out to be a shrewd piece of business as Guardado's performance levels have increased in his new environment, while his attributes on the pitch help the team more than statistics suggest.
He's scored one and assisted six in 16 league appearances this term, so he'll be hoping for more of the same ahead of the business months of the campaign. The energy and balance he provides in midfield is incomparable, while lower expectations have allowed him the opportunity to work hard, without having to worry much about criticism or needless media coverage.
The way he's performing for his team now justifies what his countrymen call him - Principito - which translates to the Little Prince.
Cristhian Stuani (Girona)
Stuani is a player who never got recognition like Suarez or Cavani – his teammates in Uruguay national team. When the other two went on to play for big clubs, Stuani always had to settle for clubs which battle relegation or even second division clubs in Spain, Italy and England.
When he joined league newbies Girona from Middlesbrough (who were relegated from the Premier League last season), it was thought to be another substandard transfer in his career. However the impact 31-year old has made in the club since then has even garnered a nickname ‘Stuani FC’ for them!
He scored a brace in his league debut against Atletico Madrid which ended in 2-2. However, his best moment for Blanquivermell came when he found the back of the net in the 2-1 victory over Real Madrid – arguably the biggest upset in this season so far. With 10 goals from 17 matches, the Uruguayan striker is enjoying one of his best seasons in Europe. With his goal scoring form, Girona are currently 10th in league table.
Paulinho (Barcelona)
Many, including the Cules, frowned when they came to know that their club were signing a player from the Chinese Super League for €40 million. Not just a player, but a 29-year old one who flopped spectacularly at Tottenham. His arrival was soon written off as a ‘waste of money’ by many fans.
Few remained hopeful when he joined the club, and you all know what happened then. Paulinho truly has been a revelation for Blaugrana. He has already given a number of astonishing performances, and transformation from his days in White Hart Lane left many in awe of his fighting spirit.
The Brazilian midfielder has scored 8 goals and assisted other 2 from 18 league appearances so far. Despite starting just 11 of them, he is also one of the top scoring midfielders in Europe's top 5 leagues this season.
With Paulinho continuing to impress, Barcelona remain unbeaten in the league this season with a comfortable 9-point lead over second-placed Atletico Madrid. His price tag might be still questionable, but he has surprised both fans and critics alike.
