Manchester United, one of the most successful football clubs in Europe have never shied away from dipping into their very large pockets to acquire top talents.
The Red Devils have frequently showcased their financial muscle in the transfer market over the past decade as they seek to re-establish themselves among Europe’s footballing elite.
Soccernet.football takes a look at the top ten most expensive acquisitions in Manchester United’s history.
10. Leny Yoro – £52 million (2024)
Manchester United have added the French defender to their squad for £52 million, warding off competition from Real Madrid to snap up the youngster from Lille.
Known for his incredible abilities and potential, Yoro represents United’s investment in young talents who can contribute to the team now and in the future.
9. Mason Mount – £55 million (2023)
The Red Devils secured the services of the England international from Chelsea for £55 million. Mount’s creativity and work rate was brought in to add depth and quality to United’s midfield options, however, his debut season was hampered by injuries.
8. Angel Di Maria – £59.7 million (2014)
United made a significant splash by signing Argentine winger Angel Di Maria from Real Madrid for £59.7 million. Although Di Maria’s time at Old Trafford was brief and somewhat disappointing, his arrival was a statement of intent by the club to return to the top of English football.
7. Casemiro – £60 million (2022)
The acquisition of Casemiro from Real Madrid was a strategic move to strengthen United’s midfield. Widely known for his defensive prowess and leadership, the vastly experienced Brazilian brought a wealth of experience and stability to the squad.
6. Rasmus Hojlund – £72 million (2023)
Man United made a bold move by signing the Danish forward from Atalanta for £72 million. Hojlund’s signing signaled the club’s commitment to building a formidable attack, with his goal-scoring abilities and physical presence seen as key assets. However, his time at United has been plagues by injury setbacks.
5. Jadon Sancho – £73 million (2021)
After a prolonged pursuit, Manchester United finally acquired Sancho from Borussia Dortmund for £73 million. The English winger was expected to add a new dimension to United’s attacking play but is yet to fully settle at Old Trafford.
4. Romelu Lukaku – £75 million (2017)
The Belgian striker joined United from Everton for a hefty £75 million fee. Lukaku’s physicality and goal-scoring prowess made him a prime target for the Red Devils, and he delivered a solid return in goals during his stint at the club.
3. Harry Maguire – £80 million (2019)
Manchester United shattered the world record for a defender when they signed Harry Maguire from Leicester City for £80 million.
The England international has endured a mixed spell at Old Trafford, initially getting off to a great start before suffering a terrible dip in form. He however looked like he was back to his best last season before suffering an injury setback.
2. Antony – £85 million (2022)
Man United raised many eyebrows when they signed the Brazilian winger from Ajax for such a hefty amount. Antony was brought in to add creativity and unpredictability to United’s attack but has failed to really impress for the Red Devils.
1. Paul Pogba – £89 million (2016)
The Frenchman remains Man United’s most expensive signing till date. Pogba returned to Old Trafford after establishing himself as one of the best midfielders in the world at Juventus.
However, he went on to have a mixed campaign at United as his time with the Red Devils was often plagued by injuries and inconsistent performances.