Ranking the 10 best free transfers in Premier League history

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Ranking the 10 best free transfers in the English top-flight.
Ranking the 10 best free transfers in the English top-flight.

#4 Ruud Gullit | Chelsea

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Ruud Gullit in action for Chelsea.
Ruud Gullit in action for Chelsea.

Capable of playing in nearly every position, Ruud Gullit was the epitome of Total Football. Towards the end of his career, the legend signed for Chelsea on a free transfer from Sampdoria and quickly became an important defender for the club.

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This was a sharp contrast to the attacking wing-forward position he played while at Milan. However, Gullit was moved into midfield, where he excelled and propelled Chelsea to the FA Cup semi-final.

Playing 48 games for the club, Ruud Gullit spent some time as a player-manager as well, one of the few to do so in the modern Premier League era. Although he was eventually let go from the managerial post, Gullit stayed at Chelsea for three seasons. He won the FA Cup as manager, and cemented his spot as one of the best free signings in Premier League history.

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#3 Zlatan Ibrahimovic | Manchester United

Former Manchester United forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Former Manchester United forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

After a high-powered four years in the French capital, Zlatan Ibrahimovic saw his contract through and joined Manchester United on a free transfer. That season quickly became an exciting period for the Red Devils as their new man scored 28 goals in just 46 appearances.

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Not one to spend more than a few seasons at a club, Ibrahimovic quickly left for LA Galaxy, but not before winning silverware with Manchester United.

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During his very short stint at the club, the giant Swede won three cups with United, including the Europa League and the FA Cup. He was also nominated for the Ballon d'Or in 2016 after his brilliant performances for the Red Devils.

Perhaps Ibrahimovic didn't stay long enough to become a club legend, but he certainly made a massive impact on the fans and the trophy cabinet.


#2 James Milner | Liverpool

Liverpool's all-utility man James Milner.
Liverpool's all-utility man James Milner.

It's hard to believe James Milner has survived Liverpool's ups and downs and is currently an important part of Jurgen Klopp's side. Joining the club in 2015 after a five-year stint at Manchester City, Milner has gone on to make 225 appearances for Liverpool. Capable of playing in nearly every position behind the striker, the veteran has been key to the club's revitalisation under Klopp.

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No one thought he would still be at Anfield at age 35, but after playing five games already this season, it's unlikely he'll be going anywhere any time soon. Milner has celebrated three continental trophies and a Premier League win over the last six years with the Reds. If Liverpool continue their brilliant series of performances, Milner might pick up another trophy in his seventh year with the club.


#1 Sol Campbell | Arsenal

Arsenal legend Sol Campbell.
Arsenal legend Sol Campbell.

In what was the biggest transfer swoop of 2001, Sol Campbell made the switch from Tottenham to Arsenal in a shock move that still upsets Spurs fans to this day. His contract expired, and although Tottenham had offered the star a greatly improved wage, Campbell moved to Arsenal instead. His reason was that the Gunners were more likely to compete for honors and compete for honors they certainly did.

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While the star had spent nine seasons with Spurs, they managed only one trophy: the League Cup. However, his shift to Arsenal saw Campbell add six trophies to his cabinet in just five years. His dedication and brilliant performances at Highbury elevated his status with the Gooners, and the Invincibles season of 2003-04 sealed that status in legendary form.

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Edited by Anantaajith Raghuraman
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