Top 10 Most Expensive Transfers in the History of the Premier League
As the Premier League gears up for another frenzied summer transfer window the focus remains firmly on the eye-watering sums clubs are willing to shell out for top talents. Amidst new financial fair play regulations the thirst for success drives Premier League giants to break records year after year.
Chelsea leads the pack in this extravagant amount spent closely followed by Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool all vying for supremacy on and off the pitch.
Here’s a rundown of the top 10 most expensive transfers between Premier League clubs showcasing the league’s financial muscle and ambition.
10. Marc Cucurella – Brighton to Chelsea – £55m
Marc Cucurella was in the headlines of August 2022 when the Spanish defender decided to move North. The move was a risky one because Ben Chilwell an already-established defender was Marc’s competitor at Stamford Bridge. Despite the challenges, Cucurella is now a regular for the Londoners and has also been doing well at the Euros.
9. Riyad Mahrez – Leicester to Man City – £60m
Riyad Mahrez, a Premier League champion with Leicester City in 2016, joined Manchester City in 2018. His tenure at the Etihad saw him clinch multiple domestic trophies before moving to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia for £30m in 2023.
8. Kai Havertz – Chelsea to Arsenal – £65m
Kai Havertz’s move across London from Chelsea to Arsenal in 2023 raised eyebrows. Despite initial struggles at Chelsea, Havertz found his footing at Arsenal, contributing significantly with 14 goals in the previous season under Mikel Arteta’s guidance.
7. Wesley Fofana – Leicester to Chelsea – £70m
Wesley Fofana’s transfer from Leicester City to Chelsea in 2022 was marred by injuries, limiting his appearances for the Blues. However, the talented defender remains a promising asset for Chelsea’s plans under Enzo Maresca.
6. Virgil van Dijk – Southampton to Liverpool – £75m
Virgil van Dijk’s £75m move from Southampton to Liverpool in 2018 has been hailed as one of the best transfers in Premier League history. Despite a setback with an ACL injury, the Dutch defender remains a stalwart in Liverpool’s defense.
5. Romelu Lukaku – Everton to Man Utd – £75m
Romelu Lukaku’s £75m transfer from Everton to Manchester United in 2017 saw him net 42 goals in 96 appearances. After spells at Inter Milan and a return to Chelsea, Lukaku continues to be a sought-after striker in European football.
4. Harry Maguire – Leicester to Man Utd – £80m
Harry Maguire’s £80m move from Leicester City to Manchester United solidified his place as one of the most expensive defenders. Despite injury setbacks, Maguire remains a target for clubs in Italy as he evaluates his future at Old Trafford.
3. Moisés Caicedo – Brighton to Chelsea – £100m
Moisés Caicedo’s transition to Chelsea in 2023 was marked by adjustments, yet he showed promise towards the end of the season. As Chelsea rebuilds under new management, the 22-year-old Ecuadorian midfielder remains a key prospect.
2. Declan Rice – West Ham to Arsenal – £105m
Declan Rice’s move from West Ham to Arsenal in 2023 proved pivotal as he adapted seamlessly to a more expansive role. At just 25 years old, Rice continues to impress with his midfield prowess, pushing Arsenal into title contention.
1. Jack Grealish – Aston Villa to Manchester City – £105.75m
Jack Grealish’s record as the most expensive British footballer in history still stands today. The Englishman was put up in the record books after his transfer from Aston Villa to Manchester City for a reported £105.75m. Fast forward to today, Jack has contributed a lot to building The Cityzens’ trophy cabinet but whether the attacker is worth the price tag is up for debate.