The Premier League most expensive transfers ever continue to redefine the landscape of soccer, as clubs chase talent capable of changing a season in an instant. These record-breaking deals aren’t just numbers—they reflect ambition, strategy and high-stakes investment.
Focusing on incoming transfers only, this list captures the biggest signings in history up to August 2025. Each deal highlights the soaring market values and the growing appetite for players who can deliver immediate impact on the pitch. Some of these stars now feature among the league’s top goalscorers.
From jaw-dropping fees to headline-making arrivals, these transfers set benchmarks in sports economics. They have helped shape the fortunes of the most successful clubs, from long-time powerhouses to recent challengers, illustrating how big signings can define titles and legacies alike.
Bryan Mbeumo – Manchester United
In July 2025, Bryan Mbeumo made headlines with his move from Brentford to Manchester United for a reported £75 million. Known for his agility and intelligent movement, he had become one of the Premier League’s most exciting emerging forwards.
His signing signals United’s strategy of investing in young, dynamic talent capable of reshaping the attack, blending pace and creativity to meet the club’s high ambitions on both domestic and European fronts.
Omar Marmoush – Manchester City
In January 2025, Manchester City secured the services of Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush from Eintracht Frankfurt for a reported £75 million. The player, who had been a standout performer in the Bundesliga, was brought in to bolster City’s attacking options. His arrival reflects the club’s commitment to strengthening their squad with emerging talents capable of making an immediate impact in the Premier League.
Angel Di Maria – Manchester United
In August 2014, Manchester United made a bold statement by signing Angel Di Maria from Real Madrid for a British record £75 million. The Argentine winger, known for his pace and creativity, was expected to rejuvenate United’s attack.
However, his tenure at Old Trafford was short-lived, lasting just one season before moving to Paris Saint-Germain. Despite his brief stay, his transfer remains one of the most significant in Premier League history, highlighting the high stakes clubs are willing to invest in top-tier talent.
Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City
Few transfers have shaped a club’s identity like Kevin De Bruyne’s move from Wolfsburg to Manchester City for €76 million in 2015. His vision, pinpoint passing, and ability to unlock defenses turned him into the architect of Guardiola’s midfield. During his ten seasons with the Citizens, his impact went beyond the stats; he shaped City’s attack, blending precision and creativity across the pitch.
Benjamin Sesko – Manchester United
Manchester United’s signing of Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig in 2025 for €76.5 million was a strategic move to strengthen their attacking options. His physicality, pace, and goal-scoring record in Germany made him a sought-after talent. His integration into the Red Devils’ forward line aimed to provide depth and competition, enhancing their attacking prowess.
Rasmus Højlund – Manchester United
Manchester United invested €77.8 million in Rasmus Højlund with the hope of adding a powerhouse striker to their ranks. The Danish forward had already impressed in Serie A with his combination of speed, positioning, and physical dominance. At Old Trafford, expectations weren’t just about goals—they were about a forward capable of reshaping United’s attacking identity.
Kepa Arrizabalaga – Chelsea
In August 2018, Chelsea made Kepa Arrizabalaga the world’s most expensive goalkeeper by signing him from Athletic Bilbao for €80 million. His shot-stopping abilities and distribution were attributes that Chelsea valued highly. While his time at Stamford Bridge saw moments of brilliance, it was also marked by challenges and competition for the starting spot.
Nicolas Pepe – Arsenal
The buzz surrounding Nicolas Pepe’s €80 million transfer from Lille to Arsenal in 2019 reflected the Gunners’ hunger for attacking flair. His lightning pace, dribbling, and instinct for cutting inside promised a new dimension to Arsenal’s wing play. Yet, adapting to the Premier League’s physicality tested him, making his story as much about potential as it was about immediate impact.
Wesley Fofana – Chelsea
Chelsea’s acquisition of French defender Wesley Fofana from Leicester City in 2022 for €80.4 million was a significant investment in their defensive future. His agility, reading of the game, and ball-playing abilities made him a promising talent in European soccer. His integration into Chelsea’s defensive setup aimed to provide stability and depth, ensuring they remained competitive on all fronts.
Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool
In January 2018, Liverpool made a bold move by signing Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk from Southampton for €84.65 million. At that time, it was the highest fee ever paid for a defender.
His leadership, aerial dominance, and composure on the ball transformed Liverpool’s defense. His presence at the back was instrumental in Liverpool’s successes, including their Champions League and Premier League triumphs.
Darwin Nuñez – Liverpool
Liverpool’s acquisition of Uruguayan striker Darwin Nuñez from Benfica in 2022 for €85 million was a statement of intent. His raw pace, strength, and goal-scoring instincts made him a formidable presence in the attacking third. His transition to the Premier League was closely watched, with expectations high for him to fill the void left by departing forwards. While his performances were promising, consistency remained a key area for development.
Jadon Sancho – Manchester United
Jadon Sancho‘s move from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester United in 2021 was one of the most anticipated transfers of that summer. With a transfer fee of €85 million, he was expected to be the catalyst for United’s attacking resurgence.
His flair, creativity, and ability to take on defenders were qualities that United fans hoped would reinvigorate their offensive play. However, the transition to the Premier League proved challenging, with him facing the pressures of high expectations and the physical demands of English soccer.
Harry Maguire – Manchester United
Harry Maguire‘s move from Leicester City to Manchester United in 2019 for €87 million was a record fee for a defender at that time. The English centre-back was brought in to provide leadership and solidity to United’s defense.
His aerial prowess, composure on the ball, and experience were qualities that United hoped would enhance their defensive capabilities. While his tenure at Old Trafford saw moments of brilliance, it was also marred by inconsistencies and external pressures.
Josko Gvardiol – Manchester City
Manchester City’s acquisition of Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol from RB Leipzig in 2023 for €90 million was a testament to their commitment to strengthening their defense.
His composure, tactical awareness, and ball-playing abilities made him a sought-after talent in European soccer. His integration into City’s defensive setup aimed to provide stability and depth, ensuring they remained competitive on all fronts.
Hugo Ekitike – Liverpool
Hugo Ekitike‘s transfer to Liverpool in 2025 marked a significant investment in the club’s future. The French forward, previously with Eintracht Frankfurt, joined the Reds for €95 million, signaling their ambition to compete at the highest level.
His pace, technical skill, and eye for goal were qualities Liverpool hoped would strengthen their attacking options. While his adjustment to the club may take time, his potential to become a key figure in the Reds’ front line remains clear.
Antony – Manchester United
In 2022, Manchester United secured the services of Brazilian winger Antony from Ajax for €95 million. Known for his flair, pace, and directness, Antony was seen as a player who could add unpredictability to United’s attack.
His ability to cut inside and create goal-scoring opportunities made him a valuable asset. While his adaptation to the Premier League was gradual, his potential to be a game-changer was evident in his performances.
Kai Havertz – Chelsea
Chelsea’s acquisition of Kai Havertz from Bayer Leverkusen in 2020 was a strategic move to bolster their attacking options. The initial fee of €80 million, with potential add-ons bringing the total to €100 million, underscored Chelsea’s belief in Havertz’s potential.
The German midfielder’s versatility and technical prowess were seen as key assets that could elevate Chelsea’s offensive play. While adapting to the Premier League posed challenges, his moments of brilliance highlighted his capability to make significant contributions to the team’s success.
Paul Pogba – Manchester United
In August 2016, Manchester United made a bold statement by re-signing Paul Pogba from Juventus for a then-record €105 million. This move was not just a transfer; it was a declaration of intent from United to reclaim their status among Europe’s elite.
His arrival was met with high expectations, given his dynamic performances in Italy and his potential to transform United’s midfield. Over the years, while he showcased moments of brilliance, consistency remained elusive, leading to a complex and often scrutinized tenure at Old Trafford.
Romelu Lukaku – Chelsea
Romelu Lukaku‘s return to Chelsea in August 2021 came with a hefty price tag of €113 million, making him the club’s record signing at the time. The Belgian striker had previously played for Chelsea before moving to Everton and then to Inter Milan, where he had a successful stint. His transfer back to Stamford Bridge was aimed at providing Chelsea with a proven goal-scorer to lead their attack.
Moises Caicedo – Chelsea
Chelsea’s signing of Moises Caicedo from Brighton & Hove Albion in August 2023 was a significant investment, with the transfer fee potentially rising up to €116 million. The Ecuadorian midfielder had impressed in the Premier League with his dynamic performances, earning a move to one of England’s top clubs. His arrival was expected to provide Chelsea with a dynamic presence in midfield, known for his energy and tackling ability.
Declan Rice – Arsenal
Arsenal’s acquisition of Declan Rice from West Ham United in the summer of 2023 was a record-breaking move, with a transfer fee of €116.6 million. Rice, a product of West Ham’s youth system, had established himself as one of the Premier League’s top midfielders. His move to Arsenal was seen as a strategic decision to bolster the team’s midfield with a player known for his defensive solidity and leadership qualities.
Jack Grealish – Manchester City
In August 2021, Jack Grealish made a high-profile move to Manchester City from Aston Villa for €117.5 million, making him the most expensive English player at the time. Known for his dribbling skills and creativity, his transfer was seen as a statement by City to enhance their attacking options.
Enzo Fernandez – Chelsea
Chelsea’s acquisition of Enzo Fernandez from Benfica in January 2023 was a significant investment, with the transfer fee reported at €121 million. This move underscored Chelsea’s commitment to strengthening their midfield with a player who had showcased exceptional performances in the Portuguese league and on the international stage. His ability to control the tempo of the game and his vision made him a valuable addition to the Premier League.
Florian Wirtz – Liverpool
Florian Wirtz‘s transfer to Liverpool in 2025 set a new benchmark for Premier League signings, with a fee surpassing €125 million. This move not only made Wirtz the second most expensive player but also elevated him to the status of the most expensive player in Premier League history at that time.
His arrival from Bayer Leverkusen was seen as a strategic acquisition by Liverpool, aiming to bolster their midfield with a young talent known for his creativity and technical prowess.
Alexander Isak – Liverpool
When Liverpool finally landed Alexander Isak late on transfer deadline day, it was less a signing and more a bold statement. The Swedish forward moved from Newcastle in a British-record deal worth £144 million, eclipsing even the splurge on Florian Wirtz earlier that summer.
The move followed a tumultuous summer marked by stalled progress and public tension, as Isak openly expressed frustration and refused to train with Newcastle—an unorthodox strategy that ultimately paid off.
His transfer joins Liverpool’s unprecedented spending spree, pushing summer acquisitions beyond the £400 million mark. Technically, this isn’t just a big-money gamble—it’s Liverpool betting on form. His previous season delivered 27 goals in 42 games, making him one of the league’s most consistent finishers.
| Rank | Player | Club | Season | Fee |
| 1 | Alexander Isak | Liverpool | 25/26 | €144.00m |
| 2 | Florian Wirtz | Liverpool | 25/26 | €125.00m |
| 3 | Enzo Fernandez | Chelsea | 22/23 | €121.00m |
| 4 | Jack Grealish | Manchester City | 21/22 | €117.50m |
| 5 | Declan Rice | Arsenal | 23/24 | €116.60m |
| 6 | Moises Caicedo | Chelsea | 23/24 | €116.60m |
| 7 | Romelu Lukaku | Chelsea | 21/22 | €113.00m |
| 8 | Paul Pogba | Manchester United | 16/17 | €105.00m |
| 9 | Kai Havertz | Chelsea | 20/21 | €100.00m |
| 10 | Antony | Manchester United | 22/23 | €95.00m |
| 11 | Hugo Ekitike | Liverpool | 25/26 | €95.00m |
| 12 | Josko Gvardiol | Manchester City | 23/24 | €90.00m |
| 13 | Harry Maguire | Manchester United | 19/20 | €87.00m |
| 14 | Jadon Sancho | Manchester United | 21/22 | €85.00m |
| 15 | Darwin Nuñez | Liverpool | 22/23 | €85.00m |
| 16 | Virgil van Dijk | Liverpool | 17/18 | €84.65m |
| 17 | Wesley Fofana | Chelsea | 22/23 | €80.40m |
| 18 | Nicolas Pepe | Arsenal | 19/20 | €80.00m |
| 19 | Kepa Arrizabalaga | Chelsea | 18/19 | €80.00m |
| 20 | Rasmus Hojlund | Manchester United | 23/24 | €77.80m |
| 21 | Benjamin Sesko | Manchester United | 25/26 | €76.50m |
| 22 | Kevin De Bruyne | Manchester City | 15/16 | €76.00m |
| 23 | Angel di Maria | Manchester United | 14/15 | €75.00m |
| 24 | Omar Marmoush | Manchester City | 24/25 | €75.00m |
| 25 | Bryan Mbeumo | Manchester United | 25/26 | €75.00m |