Defenders were once seen as the solid but unsung heroes of football. In today’s game, they have become some of the most expensive and sought-after players on the planet. Clubs now invest heavily in defenders who can not only protect the goal but also start attacks and control possession. Here are the ten highest transfer fees ever paid for defenders and what made each deal stand out.
Harry Maguire Leicester City to Manchester United 2019
Manchester United shattered the transfer record for a defender in 2019 by paying 87 million euros for Harry Maguire. His composure on the ball and leadership qualities convinced United to make him the centrepiece of their defence. Maguire later became club captain and a regular starter for the England national team.
Although opinions on his performances have varied, his move reflected a new era where English defenders became as valuable as elite attackers in the transfer market.
Josko Gvardiol RB Leipzig to Manchester City 2023
In 2023 Manchester City paid 90 million euros for Croatian star Josko Gvardiol, making him one of the most expensive defenders in football history. Known for his pace, intelligence, and ability to play from the back, Gvardiol fits perfectly into Pep Guardiola’s tactical system.
At just 21 years old at the time of his transfer, his signing also represented City’s long-term vision of combining technical defenders with attacking fluidity. His potential value made the fee look like a strategic investment.
Virgil van Dijk Southampton to Liverpool 2018
In 2018 Liverpool spent 84 million euros to sign Virgil van Dijk from Southampton, a deal that transformed both the club and their defence. Van Dijk’s presence, strength, and calmness under pressure turned Liverpool into one of the most solid teams in Europe.
Within two years of his arrival, Liverpool won the Champions League and Premier League, and Van Dijk finished second in the Ballon d’Or voting. His impact made him worth every euro paid.
Matthijs de Ligt Ajax to Juventus 2019
After captaining Ajax to the Champions League semi-finals at only 19 years old, Matthijs de Ligt moved to Juventus in 2019 for 85 million euros. His maturity, leadership, and technical skills made him one of the most sought-after young defenders in the world.
De Ligt was seen as a natural successor to Italy’s legendary defenders, and although his time in Turin had ups and downs, he continued to be regarded as one of the top young centre backs globally.
Lucas Hernandez Atletico Madrid to Bayern Munich 2019
In 2019 Bayern Munich paid 80 million euros for French World Cup winner Lucas Hernandez. His versatility allowed him to play both as a central defender and left back, fitting perfectly into Bayern’s system.
Hernandez’s aggressive style and tactical intelligence helped Bayern maintain their domestic dominance and win the 2020 Champions League. His move showed Bayern’s willingness to invest heavily in elite defensive talent.
Wesley Fofana Leicester City to Chelsea 2022
Chelsea spent 82 million euros on Wesley Fofana in 2022, continuing their trend of massive defensive investments. The French defender had impressed at Leicester with his pace and confidence, even at a young age.
Fofana’s signing represented Chelsea’s commitment to building a long-term backline full of young, dynamic defenders capable of adapting to modern football’s quick transitions and high pressing.
Ruben Dias Benfica to Manchester City 2020
Manchester City signed Ruben Dias from Benfica in 2020 for around 68 million euros, a deal that completely stabilised their defence. Dias quickly became a leader, helping City win multiple Premier League titles and reach the Champions League final.
His organisation, composure, and vocal leadership earned comparisons to the game’s great centre backs. Dias also proved that elite defending and calm ball-playing ability can coexist perfectly.
Aymeric Laporte Athletic Bilbao to Manchester City 2018
Before signing Dias, Manchester City had already paid 65 million euros for Aymeric Laporte in 2018. His passing range and tactical intelligence made him an ideal fit for Pep Guardiola’s style of football, which relies on defenders who can build play from the back.
Laporte played a key role in City’s domestic dominance, showing that technical ability in defenders was becoming as valuable as pure defensive skill.
Kalidou Koulibaly Napoli to Chelsea 2022
Kalidou Koulibaly finally made his long-awaited Premier League move in 2022, joining Chelsea from Napoli for around 40 million euros. While not among the most expensive overall, his reputation and influence justified the investment.
After years of being one of Serie A’s best defenders, Koulibaly’s arrival added experience and leadership to Chelsea’s new-look backline, reinforcing their focus on balancing youth with proven quality.
Lilja Militao Porto to Real Madrid 2019
In 2019 Real Madrid paid 50 million euros to sign Brazilian defender Eder Militao from Porto. At the time he was the most expensive Brazilian defender ever. His versatility and athleticism made him an important part of Madrid’s defence in their Champions League triumphs in the early 2020s.
Militao’s strong aerial presence and comfort on the ball made him a long-term successor to Sergio Ramos. His transfer fee reflected Real Madrid’s continued tradition of investing in future defensive leaders.