10 Most Expensive Transfers in Soccer History: Where Does Florian Wirtz Rank?
Liverpool made headlines this Friday with a deal that could redefine Premier League transactions: the acquisition of German sensation Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. The agreement, which could peak at $156 million with add-ons, sets a new benchmark in English soccer, surpassing the record set by Chelsea when they signed Enzo Fernandez for $130.5 million.
Wirtz leaves behind a legacy at Leverkusen, having been instrumental in their maiden Bundesliga title in 2023. Now, poised for new challenges, he joins the reigning EPL champions and enters the elite club of highest-paid soccer talents globally.
But where does Wirtz's signing stand among the all-time greats? Let's unfold the most expensive transfers in soccer history and see how each story played out.
10. Jack Grealish - $126.8 Million
Jack Grealish’s switch from Aston Villa to Manchester City initially appeared daunting, yet his subsequent role in City's 2022-23 treble highlighted his undeniable worth. Grealish's transition sees him as the priciest English player to date.
9. Antoine Griezmann - $129 Million
Barcelona's activation of Griezmann’s buyout from Atletico Madrid didn’t pan out as planned, leading to his return to Atléti on loan. Ultimately, he was repurchased at a vastly reduced fee, marking a turbulent yet impactful stint.
8. Enzo Fernandez - $130.5 Million
An emerging talent post-2022 FIFA World Cup, Fernandez’s move to Chelsea saw him shine individually in a challenging season, underscoring his potential amidst team struggles.
7. Joao Felix - $137 Million
Joao Felix’s landmark exit from Benfica to Atlético Madrid lacked continuous glory due to managerial tensions and injuries, prompting loan spells away from Spain.
6. Ousmane Dembélé - $145 Million
Dembélé, a dazzling force when fit, found his potential hampered by injuries at Barcelona yet emerged revitalized at PSG, capturing major honors.
5. Philippe Coutinho - $145 Million
A cautionary tale, Coutinho’s Barcelona chapter exemplified unmet expectations despite a substantial outlay, culminating in a subdued departure to Aston Villa.
4. Moises Caicedo - $146 Million
Setting a precedence before Wirtz, Caicedo’s impactful presence at Chelsea reinforced their backline during a competitive campaign.
3. Florian Wirtz - $156 Million
A beacon of future promise, Wirtz’s record-shattering move to Liverpool holds immense promise as he integrates into a star-studded midfield, augmenting the Reds' quest for supremacy.
2. Kylian Mbappé - $194 Million
Mbappé’s journey in Paris reflects a dynasty-building era. Although falling short in Europe, his individual brilliance and domestic dominance cemented his legacy.
1. Neymar - $239 Million
Despite challenges in justifying his fee due to recurrent injuries, Neymar’s PSG tenure was laden with triumphs, marked by prolific scoring and playmaking.
