Midfielders play a crucial role in a team’s success, often commanding record-breaking fees. Here are the ten most expensive midfield transfers ever.

10. James Rodriguez – AS Monaco to Real Madrid (£63 million)

James Rodriguez’s World Cup heroics earned him a big-money move to Real Madrid, where he showed glimpses of brilliance but struggled with consistency. Despite his talent, injuries and managerial changes limited his impact.

9. Frenkie de Jong – Ajax to Barcelona (£65 million)

De Jong’s technical ability and intelligence made him a marquee signing for Barcelona. While he has been a vital part of their midfield, the club’s financial struggles have put his future in question.

8. Aurélien Tchouaméni – AS Monaco to Real Madrid (£68.3 million)

Tchouaméni arrived at Real Madrid as one of the most promising young midfielders. His defensive skills and composure have made him an essential part of the squad’s future plans.

7. Arthur Melo – Barcelona to Juventus (£72.5 million)

Arthur was seen as a key piece for Juventus, but his time in Italy was marred by injuries and inconsistency. He later struggled to cement a place at the top level after his move.

6. Jude Bellingham – Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid (£88.5 million)

Bellingham’s all-around ability made him one of the most sought-after midfielders. Since joining Real Madrid, he has become a dominant force, proving his worth at the highest level.

5. Paul Pogba – Juventus to Manchester United (£89 million)

Pogba’s return to Manchester United was filled with highs and lows. While he displayed flashes of brilliance, injuries and inconsistency meant he never fully lived up to the enormous fee.

4. Declan Rice – West Ham to Arsenal (£105 million)

Rice became the most expensive English midfielder when he joined Arsenal. His leadership and defensive prowess have helped solidify their midfield in their pursuit of major trophies.

3. Enzo Fernández – Benfica to Chelsea (£106.8 million)

After an impressive World Cup, Chelsea broke the bank for Enzo Fernández. Though talented, he has struggled to lift a struggling Chelsea side amid the club’s ongoing transition.

2. Moisés Caicedo – Brighton to Chelsea (£115 million)

Caicedo’s transfer fee raised eyebrows, but his physicality and defensive ability made him a key target for Chelsea. He remains a work in progress as he adapts to the club’s high expectations.

1. Philippe Coutinho – Liverpool to Barcelona (£146 million)

Coutinho’s record-breaking move to Barcelona was meant to replace Neymar, but it ended in disappointment. Struggles with form and confidence saw him loaned out before ultimately leaving the club.