Transfer Deadline Day: Ranking the 5 Best Last-Minute Deals

As far as deadline days go, this one was pretty spectacular. Breaking the tradition, the usual drip of late deals transformed into a gushing torrent, with even Arsenal splashing some cash.

Indeed, Arsenal were among the big winners as they desperately sought to fill some gaping holes in their squad. But they were not alone.

So what were the best deals of one of the most exciting deadline days in history? Here we rank the top five. 

5. Scott Parker: West Ham to Tottenham

West Ham fans may disagree, but the best player in the Premier League last season was being utterly wasted in the Championship.

A true top-flight performer, Parker is likely to settle straight into the Spurs side and provide some much needed mettle in the middle. The England man is so reliable; his signing is virtually risk-free. As long as he plays, he'll justify his fee. Harry's done it again—just don't call him a wheeler-dealer.

4. Peter Crouch: Tottenham to Stoke City

Think about this simple equation: Rory Delap's long throws + Peter Crouch's aerial ability = sure-fire goals.

It makes perfect sense.

Stoke are difficult enough to beat, but with Crouch spearheading their front line, they will be even more so. What's more, his signing serves to highlight Stoke's Premier League credentials, and they should now expect to qualify for European competition again.

3. Yossi Benayoun: Chelsea to Arsenal

You have to take your hat off to Arsene Wenger: he played an absolute blinder on deadline day.

By taking Benayoun from Chelsea on loan until the end of the season, Arsenal have a fighting chance of replacing the creative flair Samir Nasri took with him to Manchester City. The Israeli made a bad mistake in joining Chelsea, but he's still more than capable of delivering and will have a point to prove.

2. Per Mertesacker: Werder Bremen to Arsenal

Exactly what the Gunners were crying out for: an international defender with bags of experience.

Considering how porous their defence has been of late, Mertesacker's arrival will aim to plug some holes. He could even form a fearsome partnership with Thomas Vermaelen, if the pair can stay fit. 

1. Mikel Arteta: Everton to Arsenal

Who saw this one coming? What a coup for Wenger.

Arteta is the perfect replacement for Cesc Fabregas, who is the main reason why he can't get in the Spain squad. The former Everton man is a proven performer in the Premier League and will be expected to re-inflate Arsenal's flaccid midfield.

With him, Benayoun, Mertesacker and fellow new signings Andre Santos and Park Chu-Young in their ranks, perhaps the Gunners' season isn't quite over yet.