Bayern Munich’s 10 Most Expensive Signings of All Time – Ranked
Over the past decade, Bayern Munich has evolved from a financially cautious club into one of Europe’s biggest spenders. While they were once known for smart, cost-effective transfers, the Bavarian giants have increasingly opened their checkbook to compete at the highest level—especially in the Champions League. From world-class defenders to prolific forwards, Bayern’s top signings reflect their ambition to remain a dominant force both domestically and internationally.
In this list, we count down the 10 most expensive player acquisitions in Bayern Munich's history—starting from number 10 and building up to the record-breaking arrival of Harry Kane.
10. Corentin Tolisso – From Lyon – £35.3 million
Bayern Munich made a strong move in the 2017/18 season by signing Corentin Tolisso from French club Lyon. The midfielder was known for his all-around qualities, including passing range, movement, and work rate. While he showed flashes of brilliance, recurring injuries prevented him from truly dominating in Munich.
9. Dayot Upamecano – From RB Leipzig – £36.1 million
In the summer of 2021, Bayern activated Dayot Upamecano’s release clause to bring him from RB Leipzig. The French defender was signed for his physicality, ball-playing ability, and familiarity with the Bundesliga. Despite some inconsistent spells, he has remained a regular presence in Bayern’s central defense.
Read also: The 25 Best Attacking Midfielders in World Football – Ranked
8. Leroy Sané – From Manchester City – £41.7 million
Leroy Sané returned to the Bundesliga in 2020 after a successful spell in the Premier League with Manchester City. His pace and flair on the wing added attacking firepower to Bayern’s front line. While his first season was transitional, Sané has since evolved into one of the team’s most creative players.
7. Kim Min-jae – From Napoli – £42.5 million
After an exceptional season in Italy, Kim Min-jae joined Bayern in 2023 following a title-winning campaign with Napoli. His commanding presence and strong tackling earned him the nickname "The Monster." The South Korean international quickly became a cornerstone in Bayern’s defense.
6. João Palhinha – From Fulham – £43.4 million
Palhinha made his move to Bayern in 2024 after emerging as one of the Premier League’s top defensive midfielders at Fulham. Known for his ball recoveries, aerial strength, and tactical awareness, the Portuguese international is expected to bring grit and structure to the midfield.
5. Michael Olise – From Crystal Palace – £45.1 million
Michael Olise arrived at Bayern in the same year as Palhinha, 2024, following impressive performances in the Premier League. The winger is admired for his dribbling, creativity, and vision in the final third. His versatility and youthful energy add a fresh spark to Bayern’s attacking options.
Read also: The 100 Most Expensive Football Transfers of All Time - Ranked
4. Matthijs de Ligt – From Juventus – £57 million
In 2022, Bayern made a major investment in Dutch center-back Matthijs de Ligt. A former Ajax captain and Juventus regular, De Ligt brought leadership and strength to Bayern’s defense. Still young but experienced, he was seen as a long-term solution at the heart of the backline.
3. Luis Díaz – From Liverpool – £59.5 million
In a bold move ahead of the 2025/26 season, Bayern signed Luis Díaz from Liverpool. The Colombian winger is known for his speed, direct approach, and high work rate. His arrival signaled Bayern’s desire to add elite-level flair to their forward line and compete at the top in Europe.
2. Lucas Hernández – From Atlético Madrid – £68 million
Lucas Hernández became Bayern’s record signing in 2019 after a standout period at Atlético Madrid and a World Cup win with France. Valued for his versatility and tough defensive style, he was used both as a center-back and left-back. Injuries, however, often disrupted his rhythm.
1. Harry Kane – From Tottenham – £80.8 million
Bayern broke their transfer record to land Harry Kane in 2023. The English striker arrived with world-class credentials as Tottenham’s all-time leading scorer and a proven Premier League talisman. His goalscoring prowess and leadership qualities immediately made him central to Bayern’s title ambitions.
Read also: The 25 Best Young Footballers in the World Right Now - Ranked
Read also: The 25 Best Right Wingers in World Football – Ranked (2025)
