25 Worst Premier League Signings Ever
9. Bosko Balaban
Another example of the Premier League's early-2000's buy now, pay later transfer policy. Villa manager John Gregory thought he'd secured a massive steal when he paid £5.8m to bring the Croatian goal machine to Villa Park in 2001. Balaban had it all on paper; top scorer for his club two seasons in a row, and entering his peak years.
When he arrived in England however, the story turned completely on its head. It was clear Balaban didn't want to train, and when he did take to the field he was lazy in his play. Over the course of two years, he made a mere eight appearances, chalking up a grand total of zero goals.
Villa cut their losses in 2003, and he went on to recapture the form that caught the Premier League's eye in the first place. Some players just aren't cut out for England's top division.