The 20 Most Expensive Strikers in Premier League History

July 17, 2025 Oliver Obel

Premier League clubs have never shied away from spending big on elite strikers. From all-time record signings to surprising surges in market value, these are the 20 most expensive forward transfers in Premier League history — ranked from 20 to 1.

20. Sébastien Haller – €50M to West Ham (2019/20)

Sebastian Haller — Photo: ph.FAB / Shutterstock.com

Haller arrived at West Ham with a strong reputation from his time at Eintracht Frankfurt. Despite flashes of quality, he never fully lived up to the fee, eventually leaving for Ajax after an underwhelming spell.

19. Gabriel Jesus – €52.5M to Arsenal (2022/23)

Mikel Arteta brought Jesus to Arsenal as part of the club's attacking revamp. His fluid movement and pressing instantly elevated the Gunners’ front line in their push for the title.

18. Alexandre Lacazette – €53M to Arsenal (2017/18)

Lacazette joined Arsenal after prolific years with Lyon. Though inconsistent at times, his combination play and work rate made him a reliable presence for several seasons.

17. Richarlison – €58M to Tottenham (2022/23)

Tottenham spent big on Richarlison after his strong performances at Everton. The Brazilian forward has offered energy and versatility, though he's still chasing his best form in North London.

16. Fernando Torres – €58.5M to Chelsea (2010/11)

One of the most iconic transfers in Premier League history, Torres made a high-profile switch from Liverpool to Chelsea. Despite the massive fee, he struggled to replicate his Anfield magic at Stamford Bridge.

15. Anthony Martial – €60M to Manchester United (2015/16)

Signed as a teenager from Monaco, Martial was the most expensive teenager in history at the time. His United career has seen brilliant highs and frustrating inconsistencies.

14. Erling Haaland – €60M to Manchester City (2022/23)

Haaland’s move to City was a bargain by modern standards considering his goal return. He broke the Premier League single-season scoring record in his debut campaign, instantly delivering on the hype.

13. Christopher Nkunku – €60M to Chelsea (2023/24)

Chelsea brought in Nkunku following a stellar season at RB Leipzig. Injuries delayed his impact, but his technical quality and versatility make him a key long-term asset.

12. João Pedro – €63.75M to Chelsea (2024/25)

João Pedro made a big-money leap to Chelsea after impressing at Brighton. The young Brazilian is seen as one for the future, combining flair, pace, and creativity in attack.

11. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – €63.75M to Arsenal (2017/18)

Aubameyang hit the ground running at Arsenal, becoming a consistent scorer and winning the Golden Boot. His pace and finishing were pivotal in the club’s FA Cup triumph under Arteta.

10. Dominic Solanke – €64M to Tottenham (2024/25)

After a breakout campaign with Bournemouth, Solanke earned a big move to Spurs. He now carries the burden of leading the line for a side rebuilding after the post-Kane era.

9. Álvaro Morata – €66M to Chelsea (2017/18)

Morata was signed as a marquee No. 9 for Chelsea but failed to settle in England. Despite a decent goal tally early on, confidence and form quickly dipped.

8. Alexander Isak – €70M to Newcastle (2022/23)

Newcastle splashed out on the Swedish striker as part of their new era. Isak’s technical ability and flair have made him a fan favorite at St. James' Park.

7. Kai Havertz – €75M to Arsenal (2023/24)

Following a mixed spell at Chelsea, Havertz switched to rivals Arsenal. The German international has shown flashes of brilliance in his new midfield-forward hybrid role.

6. Omar Marmoush – €75M to Manchester City (2024/25)

City’s surprise move for Marmoush came after his strong Bundesliga form. His physicality and dribbling offer Pep Guardiola a new dynamic in attack.

5. Rasmus Højlund – €78M to Manchester United (2023/24)

United identified Højlund as their striker of the future. While raw, the Danish forward has impressed with his athleticism and potential.

4. Kai Havertz – €80M to Chelsea (2020/21)

Arriving from Leverkusen as a generational talent, Havertz's Chelsea career was up and down. He’ll always be remembered for scoring the winner in the 2021 Champions League final.

3. Romelu Lukaku – €85M to Manchester United (2017/18)

Lukaku's first big-money Premier League move saw him join United from Everton. His time at Old Trafford had its moments, but also drew criticism for inconsistency in big games.

2. Darwin Núñez – €85M to Liverpool (2022/23)

Liverpool spent big on Núñez after his explosive season at Benfica. His pace and aggression make him a constant threat, even as he works on polishing his finishing.

1. Romelu Lukaku – €113M to Chelsea (2021/22)

Lukaku’s return to Chelsea smashed the Premier League striker transfer record. However, it turned into a turbulent stint, with off-field drama and on-pitch struggles cutting it short.