Unforgettable Moments from Transfer Deadline Day: The Fax Machine Fiasco
A look back at the most bizarre and chaotic moments from transfer deadline day in soccer history, highlighted by notorious incidents like the fax machine drama involving Manchester United.
The transfer window often brings forth surprising storylines, but few events match the frenzy and chaos found in transfer deadline day antics.
Bizarre situations can occur, often thanks to a club’s desperation to finalize a deal or players taking matters into their own hands. Not every deadline day guarantees memorable stories, but when they happen, they stick in memory.
Joao Palhinha’s Failed Move to Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich intended to finalize a deal for Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha on deadline day in September 2023, even going as far as to capture him entering the training ground, finishing a medical, and posing in a Bayern jersey. Ultimately, a failure to finalize an agreement with Fulham led to Palhinha remaining in London. He ultimately played 39 matches for Fulham during the season before securing his transfer to Bayern in the following year.
Real Madrid and the Fax Machine Incident
Real Madrid’s efforts to sign then-Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea in 2015 became notorious due to failed communication before the deadline. After a series of accusations, it was rumored that United’s fax machine hindered the process. De Gea himself commented, “I will speak about all of that when my career is over.”
“Cuando las cosas no suceden, es por una razón. Estuvo cerca, pero la transferencia no se completó.”
Blackburn Rovers’ Clerical Error
A mishap involving Blackburn Rovers and player Duncan McGuire showed how simple clerical mistakes can result in a deal collapsing. As the club attempted to finalize a last-minute transfer, a staff member mistakenly pressed “save” instead of “submit paperwork.”
Ryan Babel’s Helicopter Experience
Ryan Babel’s infamous helicopter ride from Liverpool in 2010 aimed to facilitate a transfer to West Ham but ended with the deal falling through due to contract discrepancies. He humorously recounted the experience, stating he was left at a train station instead of a helicopter ride back.
Peter Odemwingie’s Bold Visit
Notable among transfer deadline day blunders is Peter Odemwingie’s drive to Loftus Road in an attempt to push through a transfer from West Bromwich Albion to Queens Park Rangers, which ultimately did not materialize.
