The last-minute shopping spree often associated with the closing of the January transfer window failed to materialise on Monday as Europe's top clubs largely kept their powder dry.
Even in England, where the 20 Premier League can usually be relied upon to splash some of the cash they earn from a mega TV deal, trading was unusually light, leaving presenters of Sky Sports News' much-hyped deadline day coverage desperately searching for something to talk about.
Leaders Chelsea spent 35 million euros ($39.7 million) to bring Colombian Juan Cuadrado to Stamford Bridge, recouping most of that by selling Andre Schuerrle to Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg, but Manchester United, Manchester City and Arsenal did no significant late business.
English champions City signed Ivory Coast striker Wilfried Bony from Swansea City last month for 25 million pounds ($37.6 million) while United's only arrival of note was former Barcelona keeper Victor Valdes on a free transfer.
While a few late deals could push the total January spend in the Premier League past the 100 million pounds mark, the head-spinning transfer frenzy, for now at least, appears to have been replaced by a calmer, more measured approach.
Uefa's Financial Fair Play rules have made it less likely that clubs sign players without first off-loading some of their squad, stalling the usual merry-go-round.
Transfers of players from the Premier League to other European leagues is also hindered by the huge salaries.
The reluctance of club managers to part with players at such a delicate phase of the season has also become an increasing factor in the mid-season window.
While Premier League spending this season is running at around 900 million pounds, the vast majority of that dates back to pre-season when squads were being assembled.
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