(CNN ) -- Transfer deadline day in Europe saw the usual frantic last-minute deals with English Premier League Arsenal swooping for a clutch of big name stars to strengthen their squad after a poor start to the season.
Despite the market opening at the end of May, clubs often wait until the final moment to conclude transfer deals, hoping to buy or sell at the best possible price.
England, as expected, with Arsene Wenger's team leading the way, saw the most money exchange hands, but there was also plenty of activity in the other major leagues in Italy, Spain, Germany and France.
The dream moves of transfer deadline day? Arsenal, thrashed 8-2 by Manchester United at the weekend, strengthened their defense with the signings of left-back Andre Santos from Turkish side Fenerbahce and German international center-half Per Mertesacker from Werder Bremen.
The 28-year-old Santos, who has won 22 caps for Brazil, has cost the London side $10m, whilst Bremen captain Mertesacker, 26, has a wealth of international experience, having played 75 times for his country.
"With this transfer to London a dream has come true, taking another step in my career. I have always considered the English Premier League an intriguing challenge," Mertesacker told the official Bremen website.
Arsenal also strengthened their midfield with the signing of Yossi Benayoun on loan from Chelsea and on the stroke of the deadline at 2300 local time, announced they had landed Everton star Mikel Arteta on a four-year deal.
Santos leaves a Fenerbahce side that have recently been found guilty of match-fixing, resulting in them losing their place in the Champions League.
Lugano told PSG's official website: "I am very happy to arrive in Paris. It is a great joy for me to know that I have arrived at a club with big ambitions. PSG are the most iconic French club and my goal is to help them get as high as possible."
Four players left Arsenal on a busy day for the Emirates club with Nicklas Bendtner the biggest name as he went to Sunderland on a season-long loan.