Return to sender: Chris Samba and other quick return transfers

Younes Kaboul

Tottenham – Portsmouth – Tottenham

Younes Kaboul was just 21 years old when he became a Tottenham player for the first time in July 2007. His inexperience showed a few times that season, and perhaps contributed to Spurs agreeing to sell the centre-back to Portsmouth in August 2008. Kaboul started to realise his potential for Pompey, scoring for them against Italian giants AC Milan in the UEFA Cup.

His improved performances courted interest from many clubs as Portsmouth’s financial position weakened. It was Tottenham who sealed his signature in January 2010 for an undisclosed fee. Portsmouth reportedly still owed Tottenham for the original transfer at the time, ensuring a smooth return to White Hart Lane.