Were transfers more exciting in the old days?

Today's transfer windows in my opinion are nowhere near as exciting as the old system, They cause media frenzy and levels of expectation through rumour, generally rarely realised and often disappointing the fans. Clubs at the top or bottom particularly are pressured to buy and then regret their decisions. Prices are hugely inflated. Oh for the days when someone was signed out of the blue without the slightest indication, at any time, and the close season featured the odd whisper, as teams dabbled in the market.