Arsenal, one of English football’s traditional powerhouses, has a rich history of signing top talent to strengthen its squad. Over the years, the club has made significant financial commitments to secure the services of some of the best players in the world.
In this article, we will delve into Arsenal’s 10 most expensive signings, tracing the club’s journey from the least expensive to the most lavish investments.
10. Granit Xhaka – €45 million
We begin our journey with Granit Xhaka, who became Arsenal’s third-most expensive transfer when he arrived from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2016 for €45 million. The Swiss midfielder brought a robust and dynamic style to the Gunners’ midfield, showcasing his leadership qualities and a penchant for long-range strikes.
Xhaka’s arrival marked an effort by Arsenal to bolster its midfield options, providing a strong foundation for the subsequent high-profile signings.
9. Mesut Özil – €47 million
In 2013, Arsenal pulled off a major coup by signing Mesut Özil from Real Madrid for €47 million. The German play-maker was a marquee addition, bringing creativity and vision to the Gunners’ attacking lineup.
Özil quickly became a fan favorite, mesmerizing crowds with his sublime passing and effortless ball control. His signing signaled a shift in Arsenal’s approach, demonstrating their intent to compete at the highest level of European football.
8. Thomas Partey – €50 million
Thomas Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 from Atletico Madrid for €50 million, solidifying the Gunners’ midfield with his defensive prowess and ball-winning abilities.
The Ghanaian international’s arrival showcased Arsenal’s commitment to addressing key areas of the team as they sought to add depth and resilience to their squad. Partey’s impact was immediate, and his signing represented another step in Arsenal’s quest for silverware.
7. Gabriel Jesus – €52.5 million
In 2022, Arsenal made a significant statement by securing the services of Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City for €52.5 million. Jesus brought flair, pace, and a clinical finishing touch to the Gunners’ attacking lineup.
His arrival signaled Arsenal’s ambition to compete for top honors both domestically and in European competitions, as they sought to assemble a formidable attacking force.
6. Alexandre Lacazette – €53 million
Arsenal’s pursuit of attacking firepower led them to sign Alexandre Lacazette from Lyon in 2017 for €53 million. The French striker’s goal-scoring prowess and versatility added a new dimension to the Gunners’ frontline.
Lacazette’s signing was a strategic move to enhance Arsenal’s attacking options, underscoring the club’s commitment to assembling a squad capable of challenging for Premier League glory.
5. Ben White – €58.5 million
The summer of 2021 saw Arsenal break their transfer record again, this time for defender Ben White, who arrived from Brighton for €58.5 million. White’s addition addressed defensive vulnerabilities and highlighted Arsenal’s determination to build a balanced squad capable of competing at the highest level. The English center-back’s ball-playing abilities and composure on the ball showcased a modern approach to defensive signings.
4. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – €63.75 million
In 2018, Arsenal secured the signature of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Borussia Dortmund for a club-record fee of €63.75 million. The Gabonese striker’s arrival injected a lethal dose of speed and goal-scoring prowess into the Gunners’ attack.
Aubameyang’s impact was immediate, as he finished as the Premier League’s joint top scorer in his first full season. His signing marked a significant statement of intent by Arsenal, signaling their ambition to compete with the best.
3. Kai Havertz – €75 million
The summer of 2023 witnessed Arsenal breaking their transfer record once again, this time for German sensation Kai Havertz, who arrived from Chelsea for a staggering €75 million.
Havertz’s versatility, technical ability, and vision added a new dimension to Arsenal’s midfield. His signing reflected Arsenal’s aspiration to secure top-class talent to elevate their status as genuine title contenders both domestically and in European competitions.
2. Nicolas Pépé – €80 million
In 2019, Arsenal made a bold move by acquiring Nicolas Pépé from Lille for a then-club record fee of €80 million. The Ivorian winger’s flair, skill, and goal-scoring ability made him one of the most sought-after talents in European football.
Pépé’s signing showcased Arsenal’s willingness to invest significantly in attacking talent as they sought to reclaim their place among England’s footballing elite.
1. Declan Rice – €116.6 million
The most recent addition to Arsenal’s list of high-profile signings is Declan Rice, who joined from West Ham in 2023 for a staggering €116.6 million.
The English midfielder’s commanding presence, defensive capabilities, and ability to dictate play highlighted Arsenal’s commitment to building a well-rounded squad capable of competing at the highest level. Rice’s signing underscored the inflation in transfer fees and the premium placed on top-quality English talent.