The biggest coup of all looks to have been pulled off by new Bristol City manager Steve Coppell, who has persuaded David James to move to Ashton Gate rather than the Premier League after his decision to quit Portsmouth.
"It is more important that I play football for the right club and be a family man," said England's World Cup keeper of his decision to stay close to home.
James will face Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on 4 December.
The Reds' opening day opponents Burnley meanwhile have snapped up Lee Grant from Sheffield Wednesday to battle Brian Jensen for the number one jersey.
Grant told BBC Radio Lancashire: "It can only end up being great for the club. I doubt very much the situation will come between our friendship.
"But it will though certainly liven things up between the pair of us."
Hull City however have lost Boaz Myhill to the Premier League after accepting an offer from West Bromwich Albion while the Reds themselves have transfer-listed Paul Smith as he looks for regular first-team football.