Here, we take a detailed look at the 10 most expensive Premier League transfers of all time, their impact, and where they are now.
The Premier League continues to dominate the global football market, with clubs spending record-breaking fees to acquire top talent. From game-changing midfielders to defensive stalwarts, these signings have shaped the league in recent years. But how have these players fared since their big-money moves?
10. Kevin De Bruyne – €76m (Wolfsburg to Manchester City, 2015)
When Kevin De Bruyne returned to the Premier League from Wolfsburg in 2015, few could have predicted his immense impact. The Belgian playmaker has since become one of the greatest midfielders in football history, leading Manchester City to multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and a Champions League victory.
9. Virgil van Dijk – €84.65m (Southampton to Liverpool, 2018)
Liverpool’s defensive transformation under Jurgen Klopp was fueled by the 2018 signing of Virgil van Dijk. The Dutch center-back played a crucial role in Liverpool winning the Premier League (2020) and Champions League (2019).
At 33, van Dijk is still Liverpool’s defensive leader, though his contract also runs until June 2025, leading to speculation about his next move.
8. Jadon Sancho – €85m (Borussia Dortmund to Manchester United, 2021)
Manchester United invested heavily in Jadon Sancho, hoping the exciting English winger would light up the Premier League as he did in Germany. However, inconsistency and struggles with form have prevented him from fulfilling expectations.
Sancho is now on loan at Chelsea, who have an obligation to buy the former Manchester City man.
7. Harry Maguire – €87m (Leicester City to Manchester United, 2019)
In 2019, Harry Maguire became the world’s most expensive defender when Manchester United paid Leicester €87m. Despite flashes of strong leadership, his performances have been divisive.
Now 31, Maguire is still at Manchester United, where he has battled to reclaim his starting spot amid defensive competition.
6. Josko Gvardiol – €90m (RB Leipzig to Manchester City, 2023)
Signed in 2023, Josko Gvardiol was brought in to bolster Manchester City’s already dominant defense. The Croatian defender’s versatility and ability on the ball have made him a key player for Pep Guardiola.
At just 23, Gvardiol is still in his early days at City but looks set to be a crucial part of their future success.
5. Antony – €95m (Ajax to Manchester United, 2022)
Manchester United splashed €95m on Antony in 2022, reuniting him with Erik ten Hag. While his flair and dribbling skills are evident, he has struggled to produce consistently in the Premier League.
4. Paul Pogba – €105m (Juventus to Manchester United, 2016)
Paul Pogba returned to Manchester United in 2016 as the world’s most expensive player at the time. Despite moments of brilliance, injuries and inconsistency defined his second stint at the club.
After leaving on a free transfer in 2022, Pogba rejoined Juventus, he is now a free agent after a ban.
3. Romelu Lukaku – €115m (Inter Milan to Chelsea, 2021)
Chelsea’s €115m re-signing of Romelu Lukaku in 2021 was supposed to solve their striker issues. Instead, his second stint at the club was underwhelming, with form and tactical fit proving problematic.
Lukaku has since returned to Inter Milan on loan, where he has rediscovered some of his goal-scoring form.
2. Jack Grealish – €117.5m (Aston Villa to Manchester City, 2021)
Manchester City made Jack Grealish the most expensive English player of all time in 2021. After a slow start, the 29-year-old has become an integral part of City’s attack, contributing to multiple domestic and European trophies.
Grealish has struggled for game time this season at Manchester City, as Pep Guardiola’s side fail to mount a serious title defence.
1. Enzo Fernandez – €121m (Benfica to Chelsea, 2023)
Enzo Fernandez broke the Premier League transfer record when he joined Chelsea for €121m in 2023, shortly after winning the World Cup with Argentina. Despite Chelsea’s struggles, Fernandez has shown glimpses of his incredible talent.
At 24 years old, Fernandez is expected to be a key part of Chelsea’s rebuild as they look to return to the top.
Conclusion: How Have The Most Expensive Premier League Transfers Aged?
Some of these record-breaking signings have paid off brilliantly, while others have struggled to justify their hefty price tags. Players like De Bruyne and Van Dijk have been vital to their clubs’ successes, whereas Sancho, Lukaku, and Antony have faced difficulties living up to expectations.