Europe's Biggest Spenders: Which Clubs Pay Their Players the Most?

Player transfer costs and salaries are skyrocketing at an unprecedented rate, with this upward trajectory showing no indication of deceleration.

While Saudi Arabia has become a significant financial player in the transfer landscape in recent times, Europe continues to house most of the globe's wealthiest football clubs. These organizations persist in spending lavishly as they acquire the most promising talent available.

Predictably, the world's top-tier athletes demand substantial compensation for their exceptional abilities, establishing a benchmark for extraordinary salaries. Very few clubs can advance through the ranks without dramatically expanding their payroll expenses.

Below are the 10 European football clubs currently allocating the highest amounts for average player salaries.

10 Highest Average Annual Salaries in Europe

The gross average salary for each club represents the mean annual wage payment per squad member, and it comes as no shock that Real Madrid tops this ranking. The globe's most prestigious club distributes massive contracts, with squad members earning an average of $13.1 million (£9.7 million) annually. Their top weekly earner is Kylian Mbappé, who receives $703,000 (£523,000).

A substantial gap exists before reaching the second-highest spenders—Madrid's El Clásico opponents Barcelona. Their mean annual wage stands at $9.6 million (£7.2 million), notably less than the team they defeated for La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de España titles last season. Nevertheless, their substantial payroll has played a role in their recent financial difficulties.

Manchester City leads the Premier League in player compensation, with Etihad Stadium athletes averaging $8.6 million (£6.4 million) annually. While Kevin De Bruyne's recent exit has reduced payroll pressure, Erling Haaland continues earning substantial weekly wages—estimated at approximately $713,000 (£525,000).

Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain represent the sole clubs from their countries in the top 10, with PSG having decreased their wage expenses recently following the exits of Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Mbappé. Both teams, along with Arsenal, maintain average salaries slightly above $8 million (£6 million).

Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea all secure top 10 positions as anticipated, with the Reds and their longtime rivals United distributing roughly $7 million (£5.2 million). The Blues allocate significantly less than their English counterparts—at least in salary terms—with average compensation of $5.7 million (£4.2 million). Their young roster enables lower player payments compared to more veteran squads.

Inter represents the sole Italian club on the list, claiming 10th position. They trail Chelsea narrowly in wages, investing $5.3 million (£3.9 million) on average per player.

*All data collected from Capology / Correct as of August 27, 2025