The 10 Most Expensive Players in Manchester United History

July 24, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Over the years, Manchester United has never shied away from spending big in the transfer market. From world-class midfielders to headline-making attackers, the Red Devils have splashed hundreds of millions to rebuild and challenge for glory.

This list highlights the 10 most expensive signings in Manchester United history, ranked from tenth to first, with transfer fees that reflect both ambition and pressure. Let’s dive into the club’s most high-profile acquisitions.

10. Matheus Cunha – £62.5M

A dynamic Brazilian attacker, Matheus Cunha arrived at Old Trafford with high expectations. Known for his flair and versatility, United saw him as a long-term attacking asset. While his transfer raised eyebrows, the club believes his skill set fits their modern attacking style.

9. Bruno Fernandes – £67.7M

Signed from Sporting CP, Bruno Fernandes quickly became a fan favorite with his creativity and goal contributions. His leadership and impact were immediate, often carrying the team in difficult moments. Fernandes has since been one of United’s most influential midfielders in the post-Ferguson era.

8. Casemiro – £70M

A surprise signing from Real Madrid, Casemiro brought world-class experience and steel to United's midfield. Despite being in his 30s, his performances added balance, maturity, and winning mentality to the squad. His transfer fee was hefty, but many saw it as a crucial move to stabilize the team.

7. Bryan Mbeumo – £71M

A shock move in the 2025 summer window, Mbeumo joined from Brentford in a deal few predicted. The pacey winger was one of the Premier League’s most underrated stars, and United moved swiftly to secure his services. His signing reflects a shift toward aggressive, high-energy forwards.

6. Rasmus Højlund – £72M

Photo: Raffaele Conti 88 / Shutterstock.com

The young Danish striker joined with comparisons to Erling Haaland. Signed from Atalanta, Højlund was viewed as a long-term investment with massive potential. Though still developing, he’s shown glimpses of brilliance and raw athleticism that excite United fans.

5. Jadon Sancho – £73M

United fought hard to bring Sancho from Borussia Dortmund, seeing him as a generational talent. Though his performances have been mixed, he remains a high-profile acquisition. The club hoped his creativity and pace would reignite their attack.

4. Harry Maguire – £80M

The most expensive defender in the world at the time of his transfer from Leicester City. Maguire was signed to bring leadership and composure to United’s backline. Despite facing criticism and fluctuations in form, he’s been a consistent figure in the squad.

3. Antony – £85.5M

Erik ten Hag pushed hard to reunite with Antony from Ajax, bringing the Brazilian winger to Manchester in a major deal. His flair, dribbling, and left-footed explosiveness were highly rated. The price tag raised eyebrows, but United were convinced by his upside.

2. Paul Pogba – £89M

Pogba’s return from Juventus in 2016 was one of the biggest stories in world football. The Frenchman was expected to become the midfield engine United had long been missing. His time at the club was a rollercoaster—filled with moments of brilliance but also inconsistency and controversy.

1. Romelu Lukaku – £90M

Topping the list is Lukaku, signed from Everton with huge expectations. The powerful Belgian striker scored goals but never fully settled at the club. Though his spell was short-lived, he remains United’s most expensive player to date in terms of transfer fee.