In the ever-evolving world of football, where transfer fees continue to skyrocket, right-backs have become a crucial component of any successful team. Their versatility, speed, and defensive prowess make them invaluable assets on the pitch. Over the years, several right-backs have commanded staggering transfer fees, redefining the market and raising eyebrows. In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the profiles of the top ten most expensive right-backs of all time, shedding light on their journeys, achievements, and contributions to the beautiful game.
1. Achraf Hakimi – €68 Million (Inter Milan to Paris Saint-Germain, 2021)
Achraf Hakimi’s move from Inter Milan to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 sent shockwaves through the footballing world. The Moroccan international’s transfer fee of €68 million made him the most expensive right-back in history. His journey to this record-breaking transfer began at Real Madrid, where he initially gained recognition. Hakimi’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively caught the eye of top clubs, ultimately leading to his move to Inter Milan for €43 million in 2020.
During his single season with Inter, Hakimi played a pivotal role in the club’s Serie A title win, showcasing his incredible speed and attacking prowess. His move to PSG solidified his status as a world-class right-back with immense potential, and at just 22 years old, he has a bright future ahead.
2. Joao Cancelo – €65 Million (Juventus to Manchester City, 2019)
Before Hakimi’s historic transfer, Joao Cancelo held the title of the most expensive right-back in football history. In 2019, Manchester City splashed out €65 million to secure his services from Juventus. Cancelo’s versatility, exceptional crossing ability, and defensive solidity made him a coveted asset for Pep Guardiola’s side.
After a somewhat slow start at City, Cancelo found his rhythm, becoming a key figure in the squad, particularly in European competitions. His ability to contribute in both attacking and defensive phases of the game makes him a valuable asset to any team.
3. Ben White – €58.5 Million (Brighton to Arsenal, 2021)
Ben White’s transfer from Brighton to Arsenal in the summer of 2021 raised eyebrows due to its hefty price tag. Initially regarded as overpriced, White quickly silenced the doubters with his impressive performances at the Emirates Stadium. His €58.5 million move made him the third most expensive right-back in history, highlighting the increasing importance of full-backs in modern football.
White’s adaptability as a center-back and right-back adds to his value, and he has the potential to continue his ascent as one of the game’s top defenders.
4. Aaron Wan-Bissaka – €55 Million (Crystal Palace to Manchester United, 2019)
In 2019, Manchester United secured the services of Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Crystal Palace for a staggering €55 million. Wan-Bissaka, a product of the Crystal Palace academy, made the leap to a top club after an impressive 2018/19 campaign. While he has showcased exceptional defensive abilities, his attacking output is an area that requires improvement.
Despite the scrutiny surrounding his transfer fee, Wan-Bissaka’s potential is evident, and he has time on his side to refine his game and fulfill the expectations at Old Trafford.
5. Kyle Walker – €52.7 Million (Tottenham Hotspur to Manchester City, 2017)
Kyle Walker’s transfer from Tottenham Hotspur to Manchester City in 2017 marked a significant moment in football history. City paid Spurs a fee of €52.7 million to secure the services of the England international, making him the fifth most expensive right-back in the game’s annals.
Walker’s tenure at City has been nothing short of spectacular, as he played a pivotal role in the club’s three consecutive Premier League triumphs. His speed, defensive prowess, and ability to contribute to the attack have solidified his place as one of the game’s premier right-backs.
6. Achraf Hakimi (Again) – €43 Million (Real Madrid to Inter Milan, 2020)
Achraf Hakimi makes a second appearance on the list, underscoring his remarkable journey in the footballing world. After leaving Real Madrid for Inter Milan in 2020 for a fee of €43 million, Hakimi played an instrumental role in Inter’s Serie A title victory. His ability to seamlessly transition from defense to attack and his blistering pace make him a force to be reckoned with.
Hakimi’s back-to-back appearances in the top 10 most expensive right-backs list highlight his meteoric rise and his impact on the game.
7. Joao Cancelo (Once More) – €40.4 Million (Valencia to Juventus, 2018)
Joao Cancelo, not content with just one appearance on this list, features again as the seventh most expensive right-back. His move from Valencia to Juventus in 2018 for €40.4 million showcased his enduring value in the transfer market. Cancelo’s ability to contribute offensively and defensively made him a sought-after commodity.
While his time at Juventus was relatively short-lived, Cancelo’s presence on this list underscores his consistent performance at the highest level.
8. Pedro Porro – €40 Million (Sporting to Tottenham, 2023)
Pedro Porro secured his place as the eighth most expensive right-back with his €40 million move from Sporting to Tottenham in 2023. The Spanish full-back’s ability to contribute both defensively and in attack makes him a valuable asset for any team.
As he continues to develop and adapt to the Premier League, Porro has the potential to climb higher on this list in the future.
9. Tino Livramento – €37.2 Million (Southampton to Newcastle)
Tino Livramento’s €37.2 million transfer from Southampton to Newcastle ranks him as the ninth most expensive right-back of all time. The young English talent’s promising start to his career makes him a player to watch in the years to come.
Livramento’s blend of speed and defensive acumen positions him as a player with immense potential, and he could become a standout right-back in the Premier League.
10. Danilo – €37 Million (Manchester City to Juventus, 2019)
Brazilian international Danilo rounds off the top 10 list as the tenth most expensive right-back. His move from Manchester City to Juventus in 2019 for €37 million demonstrated the enduring value of experienced right-backs.
Danilo’s ability to adapt to different leagues and provide defensive stability has earned him a place among the elite right-backs in the game’s history.