How many times have we seen Portuguese talent light up the Premier League? From flamboyant wingers to rock-solid defenders, these players arrive with big reputations—and even bigger price tags.
Whenever a player lands from Portugal, there’s an air of excitement, a sense that something special is about to unfold. But with that spotlight comes immense pressure to deliver. Some rise to the occasion, becoming club legends, while others struggle under the weight of expectations.
So, who takes the crown as the most expensive Portuguese signing in Premier League history? Let’s count down.
Here Are The Premier League's 10 Most Expensive Portuguese Players of All Time
10. Fabio Silva – Wolverhampton Wanderers (£33.8m, 2020)
At just 17, Silva shattered records at Porto, prompting Wolves to spend big on the young striker. However, his adaptation to English football was anything but smooth.
Now on loan at Las Palmas, Silva still has time on his side, but his lofty price tag remains a weight on his shoulders. His debut goal against West Brom in 2021 was a moment of promise that he has struggled to build on.
9. Diogo Jota – Liverpool (£37.8m, 2020)
Few players offer what Diogo Jota brings to the table—relentless pressing, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing. Since arriving at Liverpool, he has proven to be a vital attacking weapon, despite injury setbacks.
With 57 goals and 20 assists in 148 appearances, Jota continues to justify his price tag. His dramatic hat-trick against Atalanta in the Champions League cemented his reputation as a big-game player.
8. Matheus Nunes – Wolverhampton Wanderers (£38m, 2022)
When Wolves made Nunes their record signing, expectations were sky-high. The Portuguese midfielder showed glimpses of brilliance but had his sights set on a bigger stage.
After just one season, he forced a move to Manchester City—much to the frustration of Wolves fans. His solo goal against Chelsea in 2023 was a reminder of why City pursued him so aggressively.
7. Bernardo Silva – Manchester City (£42.2m, 2017)
A true magician on the ball, Bernardo Silva has been a key cog in Pep Guardiola’s all-conquering Manchester City side. Versatile, technically gifted, and tireless in his work ethic, he has played a crucial role in multiple Premier League triumphs.
Pound for pound, he might be one of the best-value signings on this list. His stunning solo goal against Aston Villa in 2021 showcased his immense quality.
6. Joao Felix – Chelsea (£43.9m, 2024)
Joao Felix’s career has been a rollercoaster. Once a record-breaking signing for Atletico Madrid, he struggled to settle in Spain. After a brief loan spell, Chelsea took the plunge and made the deal permanent in 2024.
The question remains: can he finally fulfil his sky-high potential in England? His debut goal for Chelsea, a delicate chip over the keeper, hinted at his technical brilliance.
5. Pedro Neto – Chelsea (£50.1m, 2024)
Chelsea’s obsession with Portuguese talent continued in 2024 with the signing of Pedro Neto from Wolves. Blistering pace, flair, and trickery make him an exciting prospect, but his injury history raises concerns.
If he stays fit, Stamford Bridge could be in for a treat. His breathtaking solo run and goal against Southampton in 2022 highlighted his electrifying talent.
4. Matheus Nunes – Manchester City (£52.4m, 2023)
Yes, Nunes appears twice on this list. After impressing at Wolves, Manchester City shelled out to bring him to the Etihad. However, breaking into Guardiola’s stacked midfield has been a challenge, and Nunes has work to do to cement his place. His assist for Haaland’s volley against Arsenal in 2023 was a sign of his playmaking ability.
3. Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United (£54.9m, 2020)
Bruno Fernandes transformed Manchester United upon his arrival. His leadership, goal-scoring prowess, and playmaking ability have made him a talisman at Old Trafford.
With 79 goals and 67 assists, he has lived up to the hype and remains one of the league’s elite midfielders. His audacious long-range strike against Everton in 2021 is still talked about among United fans. At the time of writing, he has created the most chances in the Premier League since the beginning of the 2015-16 season.
2. Joao Cancelo – Manchester City (£54.9m, 2019)
A generational talent at full-back, Joao Cancelo was instrumental in City’s domestic dominance. His ability to play on both flanks and invert into midfield made him a tactical weapon.
However, a fallout with Guardiola saw him loaned out, and he eventually moved to Al-Hilal, marking a bittersweet end to his Premier League stint. His outside-of-the-foot assist against Newcastle in 2022 remains one of the best in recent memory.
1. Ruben Dias – Manchester City (£60.5m, 2020)
The most expensive Portuguese signing in Premier League history, Ruben Dias arrived as a defensive rock for Manchester City. His leadership, composure, and ability to organise a backline helped City win multiple league titles, including a history treble.
A Premier League Player of the Season award in his debut campaign speaks volumes about his impact. His last-ditch block against PSG in the Champions League semifinals is a defining moment of his defensive prowess.
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