The 5 Best Free Transfers of the 21st Century

#4 Sol Campbell (Tottenham Hotspur to Arsenal)

Campbell was a colossus for Arsenal

Sol Campbell’s move to Arsenal in 2001 is one of the most controversial transfers ever. After more than a decade at Spurs, Campbell chose to hop across North London. He switched the white of Spurs for the red and white of their most bitter rivals, Arsenal.

The burly, strong defender was one of Arsene Wenger’s best signings ever. After Tony Adams hung up his boots, Arsenal required an enforcer of the same ilk and their prayers were answered in the form of Campbell.

Campbell enjoyed a chequered career at Arsenal and stood like an impenetrable wall throughout their ‘Invincibles’ campaign. He ended up with a couple of FA cups and a Premier League trophy at Arsenal.

Campbell was one of the greatest footballing brains Arsenal ever had and was a real leader. Such players are at a premium these days. In today’s market, Campbell would have been worth 50-60m. Hence, Arsenal’s decision to bring him to Highbury was one of the shrewdest pieces of business the club has ever conducted. The fact that he was signed from Spurs made it sweeter.

Thus, he ranks at No.4 on our list.