Chelsea return for Luiz

caused the most comment. Brazil defender Luiz struggled to cope with the physicality of football in England, having been signed by the London club in January 2011.

Despite enjoying success at Chelsea, including winning the Champions League, his defensive frailty always raised question marks over his value in the Premier League and he was swiftly jettisoned when Jose Mourinho returned to the club.

As a result, eyebrows were raised when French club Paris Saint-Germain paid £50million for his signature two years ago – but not nearly so high as when Chelsea showed an interest in signing him again earlier this week.

While Manchester United had to take a massive hit to re-sign their own former player, Paul Pogba – his £89m arrival this summer dwarfing the £1.5m they originally received for him – Chelsea’s move at least makes financial sense as their net spend on the player is just £3m.

However, question marks will remain over how well suited he is to fill a hole Antonio Conte has been looking to address at the heart of his defence. Yesterday Luiz passed his medical and completed his return, with his second Chelsea coming set for a week on Sunday at Swansea.

Owner Roman Abramovich’s deadline-day spending alone broke the £50m barrier, with Marco Alonso arriving from Fiorentina for £24m.

Alonso’s price tag shows how inflated prices have become in light of the latest TV rights deal. Thirteen of the 20 topflight sides broke their club transfer records as the window closed at 11pm last night.