Dominic Solanke, Mason Mount, Harry Kane

Top 10 Most Expensive English Players of All Time

August 26, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

English footballers have always attracted massive transfer fees, thanks to the Premier League’s wealth and global reach. Over the years, clubs have spent record-breaking sums to secure England’s top talents. From commanding centre-backs to creative playmakers and world-class strikers, here are the 10 most expensive English players in football history.

10. Ben White – £50m (Brighton → Arsenal, 2021)

Arsenal splashed £50m in 2021 to sign Ben White, making him one of the costliest defenders in Premier League history. His composure on the ball and tactical flexibility have turned him into a key figure under Mikel Arteta.

9. Aaron Wan-Bissaka – £50m (Crystal Palace → Manchester United, 2019)

Known for his excellent tackling and defensive solidity, Wan-Bissaka joined Manchester United in 2019. Though not always flawless in attack, his defensive numbers justified the hefty £50m fee.

8. Mason Mount – £60m (Chelsea → Manchester United, 2023)

Mount’s move to Old Trafford was one of the most debated transfers of 2023. Despite his Chelsea roots, he became a big investment for United, expected to add creativity and work rate to their midfield.

7. Dominic Solanke – £65m (Bournemouth → Tottenham, 2024)

Few would have predicted Solanke breaking into this list, but Spurs paid £65m for his services in 2024. After a prolific spell at Bournemouth, he was seen as a long-term attacking solution for Tottenham.

6. Jadon Sancho – £73m (Borussia Dortmund → Manchester United, 2021)

After dazzling at Borussia Dortmund, Sancho returned to England with huge expectations. Manchester United paid £73m, hoping his flair and creativity on the wing would transform their attack.

5. Harry Maguire – £80m (Leicester City → Manchester United, 2019)

United smashed the world record for a defender when they signed Maguire for £80m. While opinions remain divided on his performances, he became England’s defensive leader and contributed key moments for club and country.

4. Harry Kane – £86.4m (Tottenham → Bayern Munich, 2023)

England’s all-time top scorer left Spurs for Bayern Munich in 2023 for £86.4m. His goalscoring pedigree made him worth every penny, as Bayern sought a proven striker to lead their attack.

3. Jude Bellingham – £88.5m (Borussia Dortmund → Real Madrid, 2023)

At just 20 years old, Bellingham became one of the most expensive Englishmen ever when he joined Real Madrid. His initial £88.5m fee could rise to £115m with add-ons, reflecting his superstar potential.

2. Jack Grealish – £100m (Aston Villa → Manchester City, 2021)

City made Grealish England’s first £100m player in 2021, signing him from Aston Villa. His dribbling, vision, and creativity made him an ideal fit for Pep Guardiola’s system.

1. Declan Rice – £100m (West Ham → Arsenal, 2023)

Rice matched Grealish’s record with his £100m switch to Arsenal, though his deal included £5m in add-ons. A natural leader and defensive powerhouse, Rice is central to Arsenal’s ambitions of dominating English football again.