Ronaldo Tops Most Expensive Transfers of Players Over 30

Wednesday, November 4, 2026 – 9:00 AM

Football players often see their market value decline after turning 30, but several major stars have defied this trend, attracting huge transfer fees thanks to their experience and technical abilities.

According to a report by FootballTransfers, Cristiano Ronaldo tops the list of the most expensive transfers involving players over 30 in football history.

The Portuguese superstar moved from Real Madrid to Juventus in the summer of 2018 for 117 million euros, making him the most expensive player in this category.

Cristiano Ronaldo Leads the Rankings

Ronaldo was 33 when Juventus signed him for 117 million euros. His remarkable achievements at Real Madrid and five Ballon d'Or awards made him one of football's most valuable stars despite his age.

Harry Kane and Neymar Follow

Harry Kane ranks second after moving from Tottenham Hotspur to Bayern Munich in 2023 for 95 million euros.

Brazilian forward Neymar occupies third place following his transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Saudi club Al Hilal in 2023 for 90 million euros.

Casemiro and Pjanic Among the Biggest Deals

Casemiro ranks fourth after joining Manchester United from Real Madrid in 2022 for 70.7 million euros.

Rodri and Miralem Pjanic share fifth place, with each transfer valued at 60 million euros, according to the reported list.

Watkins, Verratti and Lewandowski Make the List

Ollie Watkins ranks seventh following a reported 58-million-euro move from Aston Villa to Al Hilal in 2026.

Marco Verratti and Robert Lewandowski are next, with both transfers valued at 45 million euros.

Three Players Share Tenth Place

Leonardo Bonucci, Kalidou Koulibaly and Paulinho share the tenth position, with each transfer valued at 42 million euros.

The rankings highlight how experience and technical quality can maintain a player's market value beyond the age of 30, with Ronaldo remaining at the top.